What advantage does microsurfacing offer over a conventional slurry seal?

Microsurfacing offers several advantages over a conventional slurry seal. The primary advantage is its ability to correct minor surface irregularities and provide a smoother riding surface due to its polymer-modified asphalt emulsion and the use of well-graded aggregates. This polymer modification also enhances the mixture's durability, adhesion, and resistance to rutting and cracking compared to standard slurry seals. Furthermore, microsurfacing typically allows for faster traffic restoration. Microsurfacing mixtures are designed to cure quickly, often allowing traffic to return to the pavement within a few hours of application, whereas slurry seals may require a longer curing time. The quick curing time minimizes disruption to traffic flow. Microsurfacing can also be applied in thicker layers than slurry seals, enabling it to address more significant surface distresses and improve ride quality more effectively. Finally, microsurfacing tends to exhibit better long-term performance and durability compared to conventional slurry seals, resulting in a longer service life and reduced maintenance requirements. However, it also generally is more expensive than a slurry seal treatment.