eliminating the thumping and slapping sound created by faulted joints. Enhanced surface texture and skid resistance is another benefit of diamond grinding. The corrugated surface increases surface macrotexture and provides ample channels for water to displace beneath vehicle tires, reducing hydroplaning potential. Diamond grinding also improves cornering friction, providing directional stability by tire tread-pavement groove interlock. Diamond grinding has been found to reduce accident rates in some scenarios. The increased macrotexture provides for improved drainage of water at the tire-pavement interface, thus improving wet-weather friction, particularly for vehicles with balding tires. The longitudinal nature of a diamond-ground texture also provides directional stability and reduces hydroplaning, thus contributing to the safety of diamond ground surfaces. This technique does not significantly affect fatigue life. The reduction in thickness due to diamond grinding is highest at the faulted joint and lower at the interior. The small reduction in slab thickness caused by diamond grinding has negligible effect on service life. A typical concrete pavement may be ground up to three times and still add traffic carrying capacity. Diamond grinding does not affect material durability. The fact that the diamond-ground surface is nearly always dry (except during storms) reduces may reduce freeze-thaw problems. Diamond grinding does not introduce any unusual condition that would lead to poor surface durability. This preservation method does not raise the pavement surface elevation. Grinding does not affect overhead clearances underneath bridges and eliminates the need for tapers at highway entrances, exits and at side streets. Grinding does not affect the hydraulic capacities of curbs and gutters on municipal streets. On the other hand, bituminous overlays fill curb and gutter, reducing drainage capabilities. Diamond grinding should be applied to the portion of the pavement where restoration is needed. A highway agency can require grinding only on the truck lanes of a four-lane divided highway, presenting a significant cost advantage. Finally, diamond grinding can be accomplished during off-peak hours with short lane closures, without having to close adjacent lanes. Diamond grinding can also be used on all road classes, from interstates to city streets. See also References External links International Grooving & Grinding Association.net Concrete Grinding and lapping