Protect Your Pavement

Condominium (COAs) and homeowner associations (HOAs) are responsible for maintaining a variety of shared spaces, and the roads within their communities are no exception. Cracks, potholes, and a faded surface can not only be unsightly but also pose safety hazards. While complete asphalt replacement can be expensive and disruptive, slurry seal offers a cost-effective and efficient solution for extending the life of your pavement.

What is Slurry Seal?

slurry seal Slurry seal is a thin layer of emulsified asphalt, water, and aggregate (crushed rock) applied to existing asphalt surfaces. It acts as a protective barrier, filling minor cracks, waterproofing the surface, and improving skid resistance.  Unlike sealcoating (which is more like painting), which creates a smooth finish, slurry seal has a slightly textured surface for better traction. There are also two variation of slurry sealing:

  • Micro  surfacing mixtures are made using crushed fine aggregate,  polymer-modified emulsified asphalt, water, and additives that are mixed  and spread using equipment similar to Slurry.
  • Chip  Seals are made by spraying a layer of emulsified asphalt or rubberized  asphalt onto the pavement and covering it with a layer of clean,  crushed, cubical aggregate using a calibrated spreader machine.  Many rural areas chip seal roads rather than pave.

Why should we Slurry Seal?  

  • Cost-Effective: Compared to asphalt replacement, slurry seal is a significantly cheaper option. It can extend the lifespan of your existing pavement by 7-10 years, saving your HOA money in the long run.
  • Quick Application: Slurry seal cures quickly, minimizing disruption to residents. Driveways and roads can typically be back in use within 24 hours, depending on weather conditions.
  • Protects the Pavement: Slurry seal acts as a shield against water infiltration, preventing further cracking and deterioration caused by freeze-thaw cycles and harsh weather.
  • Improves Safety: The textured surface of slurry seal enhances skid resistance, especially important in areas with rain or snow. This translates to safer driving conditions for residents and visitors.
  • Enhances Curb Appeal: A fresh coat of slurry seal restores a uniform black color and texture to your asphalt surfaces, significantly improving the overall aesthetics of your community.

 

repave Why not just repave the roadway?
Studies have shown for every dollar spent on prevention, a savings of approximately $6.00 to $10.00 on repairs and new asphalt is achieved. Not only does this reduce the overall dollar spent on street upkeep, but it also has shown to extend the useful life of a street past its design standard of 20 years

 

Is Slurry Seal Right for Your HOA?
Slurry seal is ideal for asphalt surfaces with minor to moderate cracking and wear.  If your roads have significant potholes, large cracks, or structural issues, a more comprehensive asphalt repair or replacement might be necessary.  Consulting with a qualified paving contractor can help you determine the best course of action for your specific needs.

 

Ensuring Quality:

  •     Choose a Reputable Contractor: Ask for references and check online reviews. Opt for a company with experience in slurry seal application.
  •     Request Written Specifications: The contract should detail the mix design, including the water-asphalt emulsion ratio. Specifications are available from industry associations.
  •     On-Site Inspection: If possible, be present during application. A qualified contractor should be able to answer your questions about the mix and application process.

By actively maintaining roads and parking areas, Homeowner and Condominium association save maintenance costs for their communities. It’s a cost-effective way to extend pavement life, improve safety, and enhance curb appeal, creating a more enjoyable environment for residents.