Builders Asphalt Boosts Performance with P-Tier Wheel Loaders
BY John Deere
A decade of growth includes larger capacity wheel loaders adding to performance
Editor’s Note: The new Focus on Performance series from AsphaltPro Magazine allows OEMs and service providers in the industry to highlight asphalt professionals who have improved efficiencies and the bottom line through best practices and performance. This month’s installment from John Deere dives specifically into efficiencies gained through larger capacity wheel loaders at Builders Asphalt locations.
In the fast-paced and highly competitive asphalt industry, staying ahead means having more than just hard work and dedication—it requires reliable equipment, strategic partnerships and a deep understanding of business operations. For Ryan Gandy, president of Builders Asphalt, success is built on the foundation of industry experience, innovative thinking and strategic equipment investments. With over 16 years in the road-building sector, Gandy’s journey has been shaped by hard work, smart decisions and the invaluable lessons learned from seasoned professionals along the way.
As a younger professional in the industry, Gandy embraced the opportunity to learn from those with decades of experience, applying their knowledge in new ways to drive success. Today, Builders Asphalt owns and operates seven asphalt plants across the greater Chicago area and manages a workforce of over 450 employees. A leading player in the region, its plants are capable of producing between 400 and 600 tons of asphalt per hour. The company focuses on asphalt paving and recycling, an area where operational efficiency and equipment reliability are not just advantages—they’re necessities.
Achieving Efficiency on Major Projects
A recent highlight for Builders Asphalt was their work on the Illinois Tollway I-294 project. Builders Asphalt crews both supplied and paved 50,000 tons of asphalt mix for the project, operating at a rate of 450 tons per hour to meet production demands. Key to achieving that output was their fleet of wheel loaders equipped with large 9.3-yard buckets, which played a significant role in maintaining steady material flow and maximizing efficiency at the plant.
“Bucket size played a large role in production,” Gandy explained. “With the larger buckets, we were able to reduce the number of passes required to load material, which kept operations moving smoothly.”
Managing multiple material piles also required careful planning and equipment performance. “We manage about ten raw material piles per location, so equipment that offers both capacity and speed is essential,” Gandy said. “The oversized, well-armored buckets help us handle those piles effectively.”
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Finding the Right Equipment Partner
In an industry where timing and efficiency are everything, equipment plays a pivotal role in Builders Asphalt’s operations. Gandy recalls how the company gradually transitioned to using John Deere wheel loaders, a move that improved their efficiency and reliability on the job.
“We started using John Deere wheel loaders in 2018 after developing a relationship with West Side Tractor,” Gandy explained. “The dealership’s service and support made all the difference.” This relationship was more than just a typical dealer-customer interaction; it became a true partnership focused on shared success.
Builders Asphalt now relies on several John Deere models, including the 844, 904 and 824 P-Tier Wheel Loaders equipped with 9.3-yard buckets. These machines have become indispensable in their day-to-day operations. “We rely on these machines daily for critical tasks,” Gandy said. “From loading asphalt and rock at our recycling plant to crushing and loading concrete for stone bases, the wheel loaders are incredibly versatile. They help us push piles of dumped material, consolidate them, and keep operations running smoothly.”
Key Features for Tough Conditions
Working in an asphalt plant environment means dealing with some of the most extreme operating conditions in the construction industry. High temperatures, heavy material handling and dusty surroundings can quickly take a toll on even the most robust equipment. For Gandy, having durable and well-designed machines is essential to maintaining high productivity and minimizing downtime.
“The bucket size is a key factor for staying productive,” he explained. “We also prioritize operator visibility for safety and machine speed since we have about ten raw material piles per location to manage. The oversized, well-armored buckets are ideal for our applications, and the fuel efficiency helps us control costs.”
In tough environments like this, equipment failure isn’t just an inconvenience—it can be costly. That’s why Builders Asphalt relies heavily on the proven durability and reliability of wheel loaders. These machines are built to withstand the rigors of asphalt plant operations and continue performing day after day. Regular maintenance is a critical part of keeping these machines in top shape.
“Attention to detail in maintenance has boosted our productivity,” Gandy said. “The machines are built to sustain themselves over long periods, and we’ve seen great results by staying on top of upkeep. Checking filters regularly and keeping operator spaces clean is essential.”
Recognizing Key Contributors
Behind every successful project are the individuals who make it happen. For Builders Asphalt, two key team members played vital roles in the I-294 project’s success: Lee Marsmaker, who manages all production for Builders, and Daniel Buczkowski, who operates the HMA plant. Their expertise and dedication helped ensure materials were moved efficiently and production targets were consistently met.
In addition to maintaining high standards for equipment and service, Builders Asphalt has created a company culture focused on reliability and efficiency. Every decision, from the type of equipment they purchase to how they manage raw material piles, is driven by a commitment to continuous improvement.
This culture extends to how they train and support their operators. Experienced operators and new hires alike are encouraged to take ownership of the machines they operate, performing daily maintenance checks and reporting any issues immediately.
“Everyone plays a role in keeping the machines running smoothly,” Gandy said. “It’s not just about having the right equipment—it’s about having the right team and processes in place to get the most out of that equipment.”
Looking Ahead
As Builders Asphalt continues to grow, Gandy remains focused on what lies ahead. His team is always looking for ways to improve operations, and future innovations in equipment technology are a big part of that equation.
“Keep up with the best steel technology for buckets,” Gandy advised. “Aggregates cause a lot of wear and tear, so we do a lot of modifications with cutting edges, plating and lining. I’d also like to see ongoing improvements in counterweight design to accommodate heavy materials.”
Gandy is also keen to see how advancements in automation and data analytics could impact the industry in the coming years. “Technology is changing everything,” he said. “There’s so much potential to improve efficiency and safety with the right innovations.
“Make sure you have a strong relationship with your dealer,” he continued. “It’s a shared investment—you both need to be committed to success. And when in doubt, go with the bigger machine. You’ll get more life out of it, and it will handle tougher jobs with ease.”
With a focus on innovation, reliability and smart partnerships, Builders Asphalt is well-positioned for continued success. The company’s growth over the past decade is a testament to the power of strategic decision-making and a willingness to embrace new ideas and technologies.
For Gandy and his team, wheel loaders are more than just tools—they’re an essential part of how Builders Asphalt gets the job done. From the reliability of the machines to the unparalleled support from West Side Tractor, it’s clear that this partnership is built to last.
“We’re ready to tackle the challenges ahead,” Gandy said. “With the right people, equipment and support, there’s no limit to what we can accomplish.”