If your home or business has asphalt pavement, then you understand the importance of sealcoating. Asphalt sealcoating is a protective layer applied to asphalt that covers the surface of the pavement to protect it against premature damage. It accomplishes this by repelling moisture and the various harmful chemicals, including oil, gas, and ice-melting salt.
Types of Asphalt Sealcoat
When you decide to apply a sealcoat to your pavement surface, there are a few options for coating you can choose from. They include…
- Slurry Sealcoating: This mix is good for roads and parking lots with minimal wear and tear. It contains a mix of asphalt emulsion, fine sand, and water.
- Chip Sealcoating: Chip and sealcoating is a process that applies layers of asphalt sealer and aggregate rock to build up the strength of an asphalt surface. It is good for surfaces that do not have routine maintenance and need severe repair.
- Fog Sealcoating: Fog sealcoating is often used on larger and business roadways. It contains emulsified asphalt bitumen, which is sprayed in a fine mist on top of a blacktop surface.
The Benefits of Asphalt Sealcoating
There are many benefits to applying a sealcoat to your pavement. When a protective layer is added to asphalt, there are five ways it can benefit the property owner.
- Prolong the life of your pavement
- Save money on repair costs
- Accelerate how quickly snow and ice melt
- Protect your pavement against a range of elements, including oil, chemicals, and weather damage
- Keep the asphalt looking black (thus enhancing the appearance of your building and landscape)
Guidelines for Sealcoating Pavement
Even when you have professional help with asphalt sealcoating, there are some rules you will need to follow. Here are just a few guidelines to keep in mind that will help you get the most out of this service.
- Before you start sealing, any cracks larger than a quarter-inch will need to be patched.
- You will need to apply the sealant when the temperature is higher than 50 degrees Fahrenheit and rain isn’t expected for at least a day or two.
- The pavement you are sealing will need to be cleaned first. That means spraying it down with water and cleaning any oil spots with a commercial detergent. After you clean and spray it down with water, be sure to let it sit for an hour or so before the sealcoat is spread.
- Once the sealcoat is spread, it will need to sit undisturbed for 24 to 48 hours.
- Finally, it is recommended that driveways and parking lots are seals coated every two to three years for normal use.
Now that you know a bit more about asphalt sealcoating, you’ll be in a better position to assess your needs and to prepare your driveway for this service. If you’re looking to seal your asphalt this spring, we’re here to help. Please contact us today for more information.
