Dust Proofing or Seal Coating

What is Dust Proofing or Sealcoating?

Dust Proofing / Sealcoating is an application of a thin film of asphalt oil followed by a layer of small rock, which provides a new wear surface for the road.  Dust Proofing/Sealcoating protects the prior applications or asphalt on the street from becoming porous by preventing further oxidation.  This maintenance process helps extend the life of the pavement and can help reduce long-term costs but doesn’t necessarily improve the quality of the ride.

Approximately fifty (50) percent of Aberdeen’s pavement streets appear to be asphalt but in reality the surface is merely several applications of asphalt oil and pea rock. These roads started as a gravel road with seal coat, but were gradually built up by the many applications of rock and oil. Some streets are concrete with an asphalt treatment-asphalt overlay or sealcoat.  Aberdeen’s primary collector or arterial streets are full-depth asphalt or concrete.  General maintenance can vary between asphalt street and dust proof streets.

No parking is allowed on the street the day of dust proofing is scheduled.  Whenever possible, “No Parking this Block” signs will be placed in the early morning.  If you drive on the street during the operation, please be aware of fresh oil and loose rock.  City crews will sweep the excess rock from the street within 2 weeks of work completion.

2010-2016 Map showing street sealcoating segments

For more information regarding Stormwater, contact the Public Works Department at 626-7010 or e-mail us at publicworks@aberdeen.sd.us.