Chip Seal

Chip Seal

Chip Seal is a thin surface treatment consisting of an application of liquid asphalt or emulsion binder covered with an aggregate.

Chip seals can be used to protect an oxidized or weathered surface by sealing the asphalt to prevent moisture from entering the pavement structure. Chip seal is one of the industry’s oldest and most proven surface treatments available. The entire operation can be conducted with minimal traffic disruption.

Chip Seal Advantages

  • Less expensive
  • Excellent skid resistance
  • Fast setting – least amount of traffic disruption

Binders

CHFRS2-P- Cationic High Float Rapid Setting Polymerized Emulsion

  • Most advanced emulsion for chip seal
  • Emulsion modified with a polymer binder
  • Good adhesion

CRS2-P – Cationic Rapid Setting Polymerized Emulsion

  • Emulsion modified with a polymer binder
  • Good adhesion

EA-90P, EA-150 or HFE-150 can be also be used depending on the aggregate. Contact us for more information on using the right binder with the right aggregate.


Aggregates

Natural Aggregates

Trap rock and limestone are examples of natural aggregate that are readily available in 1/4”-3/4”.

  • Fairly cubical angular aggregate
  • Hard crushed faces provide better adhesion
  • Readily available
  • Trap rock and granite provide good skid resistance

Expanded Lightweight

Lightweight aggregate is produced by heating shale pellets to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. Shale expands to create a porous, lightweight aggregate. This is a good alternative when natural aggregates are not available or when complaints from the traveling public are a concern.

  • Low mass, will not break windshields
  • Good skid resistance
  • Durable
  • Reduced complaints from the traveling public

How is Chip Seal applied?

  1. The surface is cleaned of loose rock, vegetation, and dust.
  2. An emulsion or liquid asphalt is applied by using a computerized, pressurized distributor.
  3. Cover aggregate is applied by a means of a computerized, self-propelled chip spreader.
  4. The surface is rolled by a rubber-tired roller.
  5. Loose aggregate is swept off the surface.

A chip seal will not increase the strength of an existing pavement. Chip seal will prolong the life of a sound pavement by providing a protective coating.

For a copy of High-Performance Chip Seal Specification, please click here.


Recently Completed Projects

Testing Project

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