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The Sacramento County Department of Transportation (SacDOT) has begun a new preventative maintenance aimed at extending the lifespan of pavement along the unincorporated roadways. In July, SacDOT launched a unique Chip Seal program to provide a more economical approach to repairing damaged roads. The Rio Linda area was the first location to receive the new maintenance work.
So how does it work?
Crews apply a binding agent that enhances the cohesive strength of the pavement. That step is immediately followed by a layer of aggregate rock using a chip spreader. Then the surface is compacted with three passes by pneumatic rubber tire rollers then a sweeper to remove excess material. SacDOT finishes the final step four days later when an additional measure, known as a Fog Seal, is added to make the road as waterproof as possible.
A cost effect approach to maintenance.
SacDOT purchased the Chip Spreader and two Pneumatic rollers to perform this preventative maintenance work. This new process offers a less intrusive option, compared to a larger asphalt overlay project. Instead of tearing up the road to rebuild it, the Chip Seal process allows maintenance crews to fix the road faster.
This preventative maintenance approach is also cost-effective per mile compared to normal asphalt concrete overlays, deep base repairs or complete reconstruction. Using the asphalt overlay process takes maintenance crews a day to cover between three quarters to one mile of roadway. Using the Chip Seal allows crews to cover up to three miles a day. The new application also prevents water from seeping into the base of the road, maintaining pavement integrity.
What can drivers expect?
If you encounter crews working on the road, expect minor travel delays during maintenance operations. SacDOT will post signage at entry points to alert residents and service providers of the preventative maintenance work. “No parking” signs are placed on affected roadways during chip seal and fog seal treatments.
SacDOT anticipates this preventative maintenance program will allow more roadways to receive attention, improve pavement conditions throughout the County, and help to maximize the value of limited maintenance funds.