Chip sealing, also known as tar and chip paving, is a type of surface treatment that combines asphalt and aggregate chips to create a textured, durable surface. Chip sealing is often used on asphalt driveways, roads, and parking lots and can be an alternative to traditional asphalt paving.
The Process of Chip Sealing
Chip sealing is a pavement maintenance method that can prolong your asphalt’s life. It’s a sealant that is applied to the asphalt surface of your existing pavement, and it works to fill in any cracks or voids that may have formed over time. It helps keep moisture from seeping into these areas, which can cause further damage. Chip sealing is also a great way to enhance the appearance of your asphalt and pavement preservation, as it can give it a fresh, new look.
If you’re thinking about having the chip sealing procedure, be sure to understand how it works so that you can be sure it’s right for your needs.
- A contractor will clean the surface of your asphalt to remove any dirt or debris on your existing driveway.
- A layer of seal coating will be applied to fill small cracks. Once it’s dry, a layer of chips or loose gravel will be spread over the top. It helps protect the sealant from being damaged by traffic.
- The result is a textured, durable surface that can withstand heavy traffic and weathering and has skid resistance.
The Benefits of Chip Sealing
Chip sealing offers many benefits to both residential and commercial property owners. Chip sealing is an excellent option if you’re looking for a cost-effective, quick, and easy way to maintain your asphalt pavement. It offers many benefits that can extend the life of your pavement and improve its appearance. You can contact C&T Paving, a chip-sealing contractor, to learn more about this surface treatment and how it can benefit your property.
Cost Effective Maintenance
One of the biggest advantages is that it’s a cost-effective way to maintain your asphalt pavement. When compared to other surface treatments, such as repaving, chip sealing is much less expensive. It can also extend the lifespan of your asphalt by protecting it against the elements and filling in any cracks or voids.
Quick and Easy to Install
Chip sealing is also a quick and easy process that can be completed in just a few hours. You won’t have to deal with the inconvenience of having your driveway or parking lot out of service for an extended period. And, because it’s a surface treatment, there’s no need to excavate or grind down your existing pavement, which can save you even more time and money.
Improve the Appearance of Your Pavement
Another benefit of chip sealing is that it improves the appearance of your asphalt. The chips add a touch of color to the surface and can give your property an updated, well-maintained look.
The Drawbacks of Chip Sealing
While chip sealing offers some advantages, there are potential drawbacks that you should be mindful of before having this type of work done.
Safety Hazard
The chips can also be a slipping hazard, so it’s important to take care when walking on a chip-sealed surface.
Dislodging Chips and Gravel
If not installed correctly, your chip seal can start to dislodge stones and chips, creating a hazard for drivers and pedestrians and damaging vehicles.
Deteriorated Chip Seal
The sealant used in chip sealing can degrade over time, causing the chips to loosen and eventually fall out, leaving your pavement exposed to the elements.
If you’re considering chip sealing for your asphalt, it’s necessary to weigh the benefits and drawbacks to decide if it’s the right option for you. Work with a qualified contractor to get the best results and longest-lasting surface possible.
Is Chip Sealing Right for Your Paving Project
Chip sealing is a cost-effective, durable, and easy-to-install paving option that is well-suited for various applications. However, it is important to consider the drawbacks of chip sealing before deciding if it is the right choice for your project.
C&T Paving is a company based in New Braunfels, TX, that has been in the paving business for over ten years. We offer various paving services, including chip sealing, asphalt driveway resurfacing, and more. C&T Paving is an experienced company that can handle any paving project, big or small. If you have any questions or would like to learn more about chip sealing, contact C&T Paving for a free consultation.