Upcoming chip sealing projects are scheduled for several locations in the Heber Valley. Impacted areas include Bench Creek Road, River Road, Browns Canyon Road, and various local roads east of Mill Road.
The contractor will notify residents regarding the specific work schedule for each area.
The chip seal process begins with crews completing necessary tree trimming, crack sealing, patching, and sweeping before any chips are placed. Once weather conditions are sufficiently warm and dry, a layer of asphalt oil is applied to the road.
After the chips are pressed into place by a roller, the road becomes immediately usable. While the surface may feel rougher than standard asphalt due to larger rock pieces, the compaction and adherence of the chips to the asphalt binder improves over time. Crews will return at a later date to sweep up loose gravel and apply a fog seal coat to protect the roadway from moisture and the sun.
If necessary, road maintenance striping crews will replace pavement markings as part of the process.
Chip sealing serves as a cost-effective method to preserve pavement in good condition by preventing deterioration from aging and oxidation. This process can last an average of seven years and enhances safety by providing skid resistance and reducing instances of black ice.
Residents are asked to assist the process by avoiding watering any part of the street surface for four hours after the road is chipped and again when it is sealed. Drivers should use caution and travel at slow speeds on freshly chipped roads, avoiding sharp turns or spinning tires on the new surface.
