Guide · 4 min
Which roller to choose by tonnage and job
A roller's tonnage isn't vanity: it sets the compaction force, lift depth and travel speed. Picking above or below your need costs money.
access and sidewalks
subdivisions
roadway and embankment
0.8 t — access, sidewalks and trenches
For small areas, sidewalks, access roads and patching, a 0.8 t roller (walk-behind or ride-on) maneuvers easily and compacts thin lifts without over-compacting.
1.5 t — subdivisions and streets
For residential streets, parking lots and subdivisions, 1.5 t gives the weight for medium lifts and good travel, with a smooth double drum.
3 t and up — roadway and embankment
For roadway, embankments and thick bases, 3 t or more (diesel) delivers centrifugal force and depth. Vibration on both drums speeds the work.
Takeaway
Thin lift, small area → 0.8 t. Subdivisions → 1.5 t. Roadway and embankment → 3 t or more. Send us the job and lift thickness and we'll name the exact roller.
