Benefit/Cost of Applying a Higher Asphalt Film Thickness vs. Doing a Chip Seal at One YearStatus: CompleteReport Date: 09/28/2026 Summary: Increasing asphalt film thickness during initial road construction and applying a chip seal one year later are both strategies for improving pavement durability. This project compared the two approaches to help state and local transportation agencies determine which provides the greatest benefit under different conditions. Results showed that increasing asphalt film thickness (AFT) improved cracking resistance and durability by increasing binder film thickness and mixture cohesion. Chip seal also improved cracking resistance and durability, particularly under long-term aging and moisture conditions. Both strategies were generally cost-effective, with the optimal approach depending on mixture characteristics and performance priorities. Final Deliverables: Benefit/Cost of Applying a Higher Asphalt Film Thickness (AFT) vs. Doing a Chip Seal at 1 Year (Report #2027-01) Comparing Higher Asphalt Film Thickness with a Chip Seal After 1 Year (Research Summary) Related Materials: Related Research: