The aggregate should be rolled immediately with approved self-propelled pneumatic-tired rollers. Steel-wheeled rollers are not recommended because they can crush the aggregate. Immediate rolling provides better embedment and assists rapid wetting of the aggregate by the binder. There should be enough rollers to cover the entire mat width in one pass (one direction). Rolling should be in a staggered pattern making a minimum of five passes for asphalt cement or three passes for asphalt emulsions. Additional rolling may be required during cooler air temperatures. If rollers are unable to keep up with the spreader, asphalt application should stop until rollers catch up, or additional rollers should be furnished.

The distributor controls the overall production because no other piece of equipment can begin to function until the distributor has applied binder to the surface. Therefore, to ensure a high standard of quality control, the spreader and roller operations must be able to keep up with the production of the distributor. The number of rollers, the rolling time, and keeping pace with the distributor are critical for a successful seal coat.