Chip Seal

LL Pelling was started in 1949 and quickly became one of Iowa’s premier chip sealing contractors. Seeing a unique opportunity in the business, they created and still operate the only contractor-owned bituminous blending facilities in Iowa. Through the capabilities of blending and delivering their own state certified bitumen cutbacks they were able to improve their production levels and their quality and service offerings.

Led by two superintendents with over fifty years experience in the business, LL Pelling has continued to provide local communities and businesses with an efficient, cost-effective, hard surface alternative to Asphalt or Portland cement concretes.

What is Chip Seal?

Chip seal is an application of bitumen over a prepared surface covered by a thin layer of aggregate. The bitumen can either be an MC (medium cure asphalt) or an emulsion (asphalt made by milling with water). Both are good products, but LL Pelling uses MC 3000, because of its flexibility both in application and as a surface. There can also be a variation of the aggregate but the most commonly used aggregates in this area are: either a limestone chip, river gravel or steel slag.

Why Chip Seal?

Chip seal is a low-cost alternate surface to either Asphalt or Portland cement concretes. When the base is prepared properly, chip seals can be used as the first stage in preparing for an asphalt overlay of an existing rock surface. Chip seals can also be used as a preservation tool to an existing pavement. Chip seals prolong the life of pavements that are still structurally sound but have some surface distress.

Importance of Base Preparation:

When considering a chip seal the preparation of the base or sub grade is one of the key elements in the process. All pavements are only as good as the base that they are placed on and this is even more relevant with a chip seal. With chip seal, there is little structural strength in the application, so when building a stone base the proper thickness and moisture is vital in aiding in the compaction.

The Benefits of Chip Seal:

• Protects from oxidation
• Improves surface texture and traction
• Cost-effective
• Prevents water from seeping into cracks or into existing base
• Gives new life to weathered surfaces
• Reduces maintenance costs
• Beautifies pavement

Contact:(319) 626-4600 for estimates or more information.