What is chip seal?

Chip seal is a type of surface treatment used to prolong the life of asphalt pavements. It involves the application of a layer of heated asphalt binder to the existing pavement surface, followed by a layer of aggregate chips. The chips are then rolled into the asphalt binder to create a textured surface that provides improved skid resistance and increased durability.

Chip seal is typically used on roads with low to moderate traffic volumes and is an effective way to seal and protect the underlying pavement from moisture and other damaging elements. It can also help to reduce road noise and improve driving comfort for motorists.

One of the main benefits of chip seal is its cost-effectiveness compared to other pavement preservation methods, such as asphalt overlays or reconstruction. It can be applied quickly and with minimal disruption to traffic, making it a popular choice for maintaining and extending the life of existing asphalt pavements.

However, chip seal does require regular maintenance and reapplication every few years to ensure its effectiveness. It is also important to carefully design and apply chip seal treatments to ensure proper bonding and performance over time.