Applying daily cover typically takes less time than spreading a layer of soil. Soil must be hauled from a stockpile, spread evenly over the waste, and compacted, which can require significant labor and heavy equipment. Many alternative materials can be applied more quickly.
For example, spray-on foams coat the waste in minutes using specialized equipment, while synthetic liners or tarps can be unrolled and anchored rapidly, often in a fraction of the time needed for soil. Loose materials like shredded green waste or processed debris may still require machinery to spread, but the process is usually faster because no compaction is needed. Faster application reduces fuel use, equipment wear, and labor costs, while allowing operators to prioritize consistent daily coverage.
