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Chip Seal vs. Asphalt Paving Every paving project has unique needs, meaning only some projects should use the same material. There are many options for paving a driveway, private road, or parking lot, so which one is best? If you’ve done some research on affordable paving materials, two will come up often – asphalt and chip seal. Asphalt and chip seals have unique advantages and disadvantages for different paving projects and needs, so you must research to find the right one. Luckily, we’ve laid out some of the most common pros and cons to give you a great start. Defining Asphalt Paving Paving asphalt is a mixture of petroleum byproducts, fillers, binders, and aggregates like sand and stones. Asphalt is one of the most popular paving materials in the world due to its affordability and versatility. Asphalt can provide up to 25 years of durability if laid down correctly. To ensure long-term quality and durability, working with an experienced paving team with the latest equipment is essential. Asphalt Advantages and Disadvantages Asphalt paving has various advantages and disadvantages in the construction industry. Asphalt installation is highly versatile and durable for residential and commercial use. Asphalt pavements can handle heavy loads and elements without failing. Asphalt can also handle much more traffic than chip-seal roads without damage. Despite asphalt surfaces being cost-effective, they often require regular maintenance. The maintenance can include inspections, minor damage repair, and seal coating. Most asphalt installation companies offer low-cost inspection and maintenance programs. Asphalt is also sensitive to extreme weather. Extreme temperatures can make asphalt more susceptible to cracking and chipping, while extreme heat can make asphalt malleable. Defining Chip Sealing Chip seal is a pavement surface treatment that combines one or more layers of asphalt with one or more layers of fine aggregate. Chip seals are typically used on country roads carrying lower traffic volumes, and the process is often referred to as asphaltic surface treatment. Advantages and Disadvantages Like asphalt paving, chip-sealing paving has various advantages and disadvantages for contractors. Asphalt is only available in classic black, but you can choose different top coatings for chip seal projects like river rock, slate, brick, granite, and more. You can match your property’s style with a chip-seal driveway. Unlike asphalt, which often retains heat, chip-sealed pavements are cooler and just as cost-effective. Despite its cost-effectiveness, this paving has low durability. a chip seal is often used for everyday traffic, like private roads and driveways. Asphalt projects can last anywhere from twenty to thirty years while chipping seal projects typically last ten to fifteen years—the more traffic on the chip seal, the shorter its lifespan. Contact Your Local North Texas Paving Company! North Texas Paving is the most trusted paving company in the DFW Metroplex. Our paving services are designed to be quick and efficient, ensuring you get a long-lasting road without spending too much time. Your project will be handled by experienced professionals when you work with NTX.  Contact our specialists today for more information on the most reputable asphalt paving company near you!