What is Surface Dressing?

Surface Dressing is a principal method of routine maintenance of road surfaces. 

The concept is straightforward: in its simplest form, a thin layer of bituminous binder is applied to the road surface and stone chippings, nominally single sized, are spread and rolled into it.  Another name for the surface dressing is 'tar and chipping'.

Why use surface dressing?
Surface Dressing performs two functions:
Safety - Skid Resistance - surface dressing increases the texture of the road surface, with minimum usage of scarce high-quality aggregate.  These properties directly influence the skid resistance of the road surface, a significant aspect of its contribution to safety
Durability - Preventative Maintenance - surface dressing seals the underlying surface against the ingress of water and air, which cause deterioration of the structural courses of the road.  This is preventative maintenance, which directly influences the durability and therefore the life of the road.

How is it done?

Preparation is required before the surface dressing can be laid.

The surface will be cleaned by either a road sweeper, or on smaller surfaces a blower to ensure that any dust or debris will be removed, any weeds, moss, grass, etc: will be removed by a gas burner, then we will use a high chemical weed killer.

Any pot holes or subsided areas will be patched with tarmac then power rolled so it’s completely compacted.

Once again the area will need to be fully swept ready for the final stage of Surface Dressing.