ASPHALT SLURRY SEAL

Slurry sealing is a cost-effective maintenance procedure intended to extend the life of mature asphalt pavements that are still structurally sound. Slurry seal, like seal coat, is a protective coating for pavement, but much thicker than seal coat. It is constructed of specially graded aggregate (sand), an asphalt emulsion, water, and other additives. Slurry seal is best used on moderate to severely worn and bumpy asphalt pavements.

Why Slurry Seal Is Needed

Continued exposure to the elements causes pavement surfaces to erode and the oils in the asphalt to oxidize. This oxidation causes the asphalt to become brittle at which time it loses its flexibility and water-sheeting properties. Slurry seal will extend the life of the pavement by protecting it from these damaging elements, while at the same time filling in minor irregularities in the pavement surface and improving its appearance. Like seal coat, the finished black surface provides a pleasing contrast to curbs and new striping.

When and How to Use Slurry Seal

Slurry seal should be used on surfaces exhibiting moderate cracking or average to heavy raveling (loss of aggregate) with a consistently sound sub-base. If an area has heavy cracking or "alligatoring," it should be repaired before applying slurry seal, or the cracks will soon show through. Also, slurry seal will fill minor cracks but it will not seal cracks as crack sealing does. Very often, small cracks will reflect through the new surface after a period of time. Surfaces that are smooth from previous seal coating do not bond well with slurry seal, although an application of an emulsified asphalt tack coat will help with adhesion. Areas with severe oil saturation should be scarified prior to the application of slurry seal.

New slurry seal will initially lose approximately 10% of its aggregate, a process called raveling, and should be swept several weeks after application. Minor scuffing will occur for up to 60 days until the surface has fully cured. Over time, the scuffed areas re-compact with minimal aesthetic impact. Normal curing time until the area can be opened to traffic is 24 hours.

Parking Lot Striping:

After the slurry seal has been applied, one of the simplest yet important services ABC Design provides is parking lot striping. We install clearly marked stalls, handicap spaces, and directional arrows that all result in a more efficient and problem-free parking lot. These markings are often essential for maximizing parking lot space and enhancing the flow of traffic. Ensuring that the striping is compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act also reduces owner liability.