Control Strip 400-500 FT: Which statement describes the action in this segment?

Answer: A — Use breakdown and intermediate passes to determine finish roller passes

In asphalt paving, a control strip is used to determine how the mat should be finished. After the breakdown and intermediate passes, you look at the 400–500 ft segment to see how well the mat has compacted and whether the surface and density meet targets. The finish roller’s number of passes is then set based on what you observe in that strip. This approach ties the final compaction directly to in-field results rather than following a fixed routine, helping ensure the pavement finishes correctly. That’s why using the results of the breakdown and intermediate passes to decide how many finish passes are needed is the best description. Skipping the step would risk improper compaction, and applying a uniform 3-3-3 pattern or increasing passes without regard to the strip doesn’t reflect the actual conditions and needs.