Chip sealing projects will be taking place in Wasatch County throughout August to help maintain and improve our roadways. If you have questions about the chip sealing projects, please contact the Was
Areas of impact:
The contractor will notify residents of work schedule in each area.
- Bench Creek Road
- River Road
- Browns Canyon Road
- Various local roads east of Mill Road in the Heber Valley.
Chip Seal Process:
- Crews begin by completing any necessary tree trimming, crack sealing, patching, and sweeping prior to chip placement.
- A layer of asphalt oil is applied to the road when weather is sufficiently warm and dry.
- The chips are pressed into place by a roller and the road is immediately usable. The compaction and adherence of chips to the asphalt binder improves with time.
- Crews will return after a time to sweep up loose gravel and apply a fog seal coat to further bind loose chips and seal roadway for protection from the sun and moisture.
- If necessary, the road maintenance striping crew will replace pavement markings.
How You Can Help:
- Please do not water any part of the street surface for four hours after the road is chipped and again when sealed.
- Once the road has been chipped, please drive with caution and travel at slow speeds. Avoid turning sharply or spinning your tires on the new road surface.
Chip Sealing FAQ's
Why Chip Seal?
- Chip sealing is a cost-effective way to extend the life of paved roadways.
- Chip seal works best to preserve pavement that is in good condition. It helps prevent deterioration of asphalt surface from the of aging and oxidation due to water and sun.
- Chip seal lasts an average of seven years.
- Chip seal enhances safety by providing good skid resistance and reduces instances of black ice.
- In warm weather, chip seal self-heals cracks.
How is Chip Seal Different from Asphalt Overlays?
Hot mix asphalt is produced by heating liquid asphalt and mixing it with aggregate, the mix is then spread and compacted to form a durable road structure.
Chip sealing uses the same ingredients, but with chip seal, a thin film of heated asphalt liquid is sprayed on the road surface, followed by the placement of small aggregates, or chips. The chips are then compacted and excess stones are swept from the surface.
Can I drive on freshly chip sealed roads?
Yes, you can safely drive on chip seal right after it has been applied. Please drive slowly and with caution to allow the aggregate chips to adhere securely.
Does chip seal look or feel different from asphalt?
Yes, chip seal has larger rock pieces than asphalt, making it a slightly rougher surface. On warm days, the aggregate chips continue to work their way into the underlying asphalt, resulting in a smoother roadway over time.