Chip Sealing in Southeast Michigan
D&J Contracting applies chip seal surfaces for commercial properties across Macomb County and Metro Detroit. A cost-effective pavement treatment that extends surface life and improves traction.
Licensed & Insured
Local Michigan Crews
38+ Years Experience
What Is Chip Sealing and When Is It Appropriate?
Chip sealing (also called chip seal coat or tar-and-chip) is a road surface treatment that bonds crushed aggregate to a liquid asphalt binder applied to the existing pavement. The result is a textured surface that improves traction, seals the existing pavement against water infiltration, and extends surface life at a fraction of overlay cost.
Chip sealing works best for:
- Low-to-medium traffic commercial surfaces and access roads
- Pavement that is structurally sound but has a weathered or oxidized surface
- Large areas where sealcoating alone is insufficient but full overlay isn't justified yet
- Rural and semi-rural commercial driveways and access roads
Chip sealing is not appropriate for high-traffic parking lots or surfaces that see heavy turning movements — the aggregate can loosen under these conditions. D&J provides honest guidance on whether chip sealing or an alternative is right for your surface.
Chip Sealing vs Other Surface Treatments
vs Sealcoating: Sealcoating applies a thin liquid coating that protects the surface but adds no aggregate. Chip sealing adds aggregate and provides more texture and surface restoration. Chip sealing costs more than sealcoating but provides greater surface improvement on older pavement.
vs Overlay: A milling and overlay resurfaces with fresh asphalt — the most comprehensive surface restoration option. Chip sealing is less expensive and appropriate when the existing surface still has structural integrity but needs protection. An overlay replaces the surface entirely.
Recommendation: We assess each surface and recommend the right treatment for its condition, traffic, and budget. Not every surface needs an overlay, and chip sealing can add years of service life on the right candidates.
"Chip sealing is a great option for the right surfaces — access roads, back-of-property drives, lower-traffic areas where you need more than sealcoating but an overlay is overkill. It's a proven surface treatment, and for the right application it extends pavement life significantly. We'll tell you honestly if your surface is a good candidate or if you'd be better served by a different approach."
— David Koback, Owner, D&J Contracting, Inc.
Proudly Serving Macomb County and Metro Detroit
D&J Contracting has served commercial clients across Southeast Michigan since 1988. Our crews operate throughout Macomb County and the greater Metro Detroit region, including Clinton Township, Sterling Heights, Warren, Roseville, St. Clair Shores, Eastpointe, Fraser, Mount Clemens, and surrounding communities.
All work is performed by our own MDOT-prequalified crews. We never subcontract.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is chip sealing the same as tar and chip?
Yes. Chip sealing, tar-and-chip, and chip seal coat refer to the same process — applying liquid asphalt binder then embedding aggregate chips into it. The terminology varies by region.
How long does chip sealing last?
A well-executed chip seal on suitable pavement typically lasts 7-10 years. Longevity depends on traffic level, pavement condition at time of application, and weather exposure.
Can chip sealing be applied over existing asphalt?
Yes. Chip sealing is applied to existing pavement surfaces. The existing surface must be structurally sound and reasonably clean — chip sealing cannot fix underlying structural issues.
Does chip sealing need to be followed by sealcoating?
Not typically. Chip sealing is itself a surface treatment with embedded aggregate. Sealcoating over chip seal is not standard practice.
Can vehicles use a chip sealed surface immediately?
The surface needs time to cure — typically 24-48 hours before regular vehicle use, with loose chip sweeping performed after initial traffic. We provide specific timing guidance for your project.
Ready to Protect Your Asphalt with Chip Sealing?
D&J Contracting is Southeast Michigan’s trusted commercial contractor. We respond to estimate requests within one business day and provide written quotes at no cost.
Call (586) 954-0008 or request an estimate online.