How much influence does density have on the overall pay?

Density plays a significant role in assessing the quality and performance of asphalt paving, directly impacting the overall payment to contractors. In the context of the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) specifications, the density of asphalt mat affects its strength, durability, and ability to withstand traffic loads.

When the density is within specified limits, it indicates that the asphalt mix has been properly compacted, contributing to a longer lifespan and reduced maintenance needs. Therefore, FDOT recognizes the importance of density in the overall payment structure and typically allocates a substantial percentage of the payment related to the density achieved in the field.

In this case, the option of 35% reflects the weight placed on density in determining final compensation. This percentage illustrates an understanding of how critical proper compaction and density are to the performance of asphalt pavements, hence justifying their influence on overall pay. A higher density generally translates to better structural integrity, providing significant value to the project, which is why a considerable portion of the payment is tied to this parameter.