6 Common Mistakes To Avoid When Applying A Chip Seal
August 18, 2021 at 6:58 PM
Chip seal is a cost-effective pavement preservation technique that helps extend the life of asphalt surfaces. Chip seals are made up of small chip-like pieces of stone, which, when applied to an asphalt surface, help seal in the underlying material. To be successful, chip seals need to be adequately installed and maintained over time.
However, chip seal installation is not as simple as just spreading some material onto the pavement. There are many things to consider before chip sealing a paved area so that it can last longer and maintain its pleasing appearance.
In this blog post, we will list the top six mistakes people make when applying chip seals, so you can avoid them and get the best results possible!
1. Improper Chip Selection
The material you choose for your chip seal will affect how long it lasts and how easily it wears down in different climates. Before selecting the right product, make sure you know what type of environment your seal will be exposed to!
2. Lack of Base Preparation
You must prepare your base layer properly before laying the chip seal.
If your base does not have a good consistency, it will be unable to absorb the chip seal and cause cracking or peeling later. Plan ahead; make sure you have enough time for preparation before starting the chip sealing process!
3. Not Using Enough Water
The chip seal mixture doesn’t spread out properly without water and can create air pockets that lead to cracks or separation between the aggregate particles.
Always use a hose with an adjustable nozzle while laying a chip seal to prevent air pockets. Water will also help the chip seal adhere better and create a smoother surface that looks nicer in the end!
4. Not Using Enough Aggregate
Without enough aggregate, your chip sealing job can look unprofessional and won’t last as long. It’s essential to use at least one inch of coarse gravel on top of the chip seal, which will help lock down and cover any chip gaps.
The aggregate also helps keep your chip seal level over time, so you don’t have to fill in low spots constantly!
5. Not Getting Enough Heat
Most people know the importance of including enough aggregate in your chip mix, but not as many know that you need to get the correct amount of heat into it before spreading! The chip seal will only be effective if it gets a good hard cure and is left to dry for some days.
6. Inadequate Spreading
Once your mixture has been heated correctly, you should spread out just enough chip seal mix so that there is an inch or two between each chip.
If you’re looking for a premier chip seal contractor in Madison, WI, Pickett’s Paving LLC is the one for you! We have extensive experience in the industry and a skilled team by our side. Our team specializes in commercial and residential paving projects, large or small. Whether you require chip seal, asphalt paving, asphalt repair, or sealcoating work, we can meet your needs with our quality craftsmanship and competitive pricing.