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Most European roads have excellent drainage. This can be achieved by raising the road higher than the surrounding area, or by digging trenches along the side of the road, preventing the water fromd raining into the road base.
In Europe, about 20 times as much money is spent per capita in road research than in the United States. European road builders have begun to mix in innovative new polymers. One additive based on a polymer similar to shredded Tupperware plastic, increased construction costs only 8% while doubling the life of the road.
In Germany and other European countries, the roadbeds are twice as thick as those in the US, often 5-6 feet deep. These roads, while more expensive, last much longer.
According to Better Roads magazine, concrete roads are money savers in the long run. Although they can cost twice as much, repairs are significantly cheaper, and the roads often last over twice as long.
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