By Shawn Hutchings

Chip seal is a commonly used method for road repair and maintenance. Chip seal involves applying a layer of liquid asphalt binder to the existing road surface, followed by the placement of aggregate chips on top.

This process provides several benefits for road repair:

1. Cost-effective: Chip seal is a cost-effective method compared to other road repair techniques. It requires less material and labor, making it a more economical option for repairing and preserving road surfaces.

2. Surface protection: Chip seal helps to protect the underlying pavement from further deterioration by sealing cracks and preventing water infiltration. It acts as a barrier against moisture, UV rays, and other damaging elements, extending the lifespan of the road.

3. Improved skid resistance: The aggregate chips used in chip seal provide a textured surface that enhances skid resistance. This improves vehicle traction, especially during wet or icy conditions, reducing the risk of accidents.

4. Enhanced aesthetics: Chip seal can enhance the appearance of the road surface by providing a fresh, uniform, and visually appealing finish. It can be customized with different chip colors and sizes to meet aesthetic requirements.

5. Quick application and minimal disruption: Chip seal can be applied relatively quickly, minimizing the disruption to traffic flow. Roads treated with chip seal can typically be reopened to traffic within a few hours, reducing inconvenience to road users.

One of the main pieces of equipment on a chip job is the chip spreader itself. The chip spreader is used in the chip sealing process to distribute the aggregate (chips) evenly onto the liquid asphalt surface.

Here’s a general overview of how a chip spreader works:

1. Preparation: Before the chip spreader is used, the road surface is prepared by applying a layer of liquid asphalt, also known as the binder or tack coat. This is typically applied with a specialized oil distributor truck. This sticky liquid helps to bond the chips to the surface.

2. Loading: The chip spreader is loaded with a supply of aggregate chips. These chips are typically small stones or aggregates of various sizes. Its also important to note the small stones must be washed well to prevent the liquid asphalt from sticking to the dirt rather than the stone being applied.

3. Spreading mechanism: The chip spreader is equipped with a spreading mechanism, usually a conveyor belt or a rotating disk, that moves the chips from the hopper to the rear of the machine.

4. Spreading width adjustment: The spreading width of the chip spreader can be adjusted to control the coverage area. This allows for precise application of the chips according to the desired specifications.

5. Spreading process: As the chip spreader moves forward, the spreading mechanism dispenses the chips onto the liquid asphalt surface. The chips are evenly distributed across the width of the road or driveway, creating a uniform layer. The best chip spreaders have computer monitored and controlled application rates for more precise spread stone.

6. Rolling and compaction: After the chips are spread, a compactor or roller is typically used to press the chips into the liquid asphalt, ensuring good adhesion and compaction.

The chip spreader plays a crucial role in the chip sealing process by distributing the aggregate chips in a controlled and uniform manner. This helps to create an evenly textured surface that provides traction and enhances the durability of the road surface and sub grade.

If you have any questions about the chip sealing process or equipment needed to ensure your chip seal jobs are of the highest quality and best return on your investment don’t hesitate to contact me at shawn.hutchings@leeboy.com.

Shawn Hutchings is a Territory Sales Manager with LeeBoy. He can be reached at shawn.hutchings@leeboy.com