The present disclosure includes systems and methods for applying a coating system to a surface. An example method includes spraying an asphalt emulsion onto a surface at a rate of between about 0.12 and 0.20 gallons per square yard, the asphalt emulsion having: an asphalt blend comprising gilsonite, wherein at least a portion of the gilsonite is modified to possess a positive charge; one or more polymers, and one or more surfactants. The method may include applying a fine aggregate onto the asphalt emulsion. The fine aggregate may be applied at a rate of 2.5 pounds per square yard. In such an aspect, the asphalt emulsion may be sprayed at a rate of about 0.18 gallons per square yard, and the asphalt emulsion may contain about 56% solid asphalt residues by weight of the asphalt emulsion. In another aspect the fine aggregate may be applied at a rate of about 1.25 pounds per square yard, the asphalt emulsion may be sprayed at a rate of about 0.17 gallons per square yard, and the asphalt emulsion may contain about 37% solid asphalt residues by weight of the asphalt emulsion.