Driveway sealcoating is a preventive maintenance treatment that helps protect an asphalt driveway from sunlight, oxidation, moisture, and everyday vehicle wear. It works best when the pavement is still structurally sound and can help maintain a darker, more uniform surface as the asphalt ages.
What Does Driveway Sealcoating Do?
An asphalt driveway is constantly exposed to weather, vehicle traffic, and contaminants. When the pavement is still in serviceable condition, sealcoating can help:
- Reduce exposure to sunlight and oxidation
- Help limit moisture reaching the asphalt surface
- Protect against everyday vehicle fluids and wear
- Restore a darker, more uniform appearance
- Support a preventive driveway maintenance plan
How Often Should You Sealcoat?
A common maintenance interval is around every two to three years, but there is no single schedule that works for every driveway. Traffic, sun exposure, pavement condition, previous sealcoat applications, and the product being used can all affect timing.
Sealcoating too frequently can create unnecessary buildup, while waiting until the pavement has significant cracks or other damage may mean repairs are needed before another application. The condition of the asphalt should determine the maintenance schedule.
When Is the Best Time to Sealcoat a Driveway in Arizona?
Driveway sealcoating should be scheduled during a dry weather window that meets the temperature and curing requirements of the product being applied. Many professional sealcoating products require temperatures of at least 50°F and rising, along with enough dry weather for proper curing.
In Arizona, actual pavement temperature, shade, humidity, rain chances, and forecast conditions should be considered before scheduling the work.
What Does the Driveway Sealcoating Process Involve?
Proper driveway sealcoating starts with evaluating and preparing the existing pavement. The surface needs to be cleaned, and cracks, potholes, or other damage should be addressed as needed before the sealcoat is applied. The coating then needs sufficient time to dry and cure before vehicles return to the driveway.
For a detailed explanation of preparation, application, and curing, read our guide to how the asphalt sealcoating process works.
Sealcoating vs. Repaving: What’s the Difference?
Sealcoating and repaving solve different problems. Sealcoating is a surface-preservation treatment for asphalt that is still structurally sound. It does not add structural strength or repair pavement that is already failing.
If a driveway has extensive cracking, potholes, failed areas, drainage problems, or significant deterioration, repair, resurfacing, or repaving may be more appropriate than another sealcoat application. Learn more about APS driveway paving and replacement options.
How Long Does Driveway Sealcoating Take to Dry and Cure?
Drying and curing times vary depending on temperature, humidity, shade, weather conditions, and the sealcoating product being used. A surface may appear dry before it is ready for vehicle traffic, so property owners should follow the reopening instructions provided for their specific project.
When Is Sealcoating Not Enough for a Driveway?
Sealcoating should not be used to hide significant pavement damage. If a driveway has large cracks, potholes, crumbling areas, drainage issues, depressions, or signs of base failure, those problems should be evaluated before applying another surface treatment.
Depending on the condition of the pavement, crack sealing, asphalt repair, an overlay, or repaving may be the more appropriate solution.
Need Professional Driveway Sealcoating?
If your asphalt driveway is a good candidate for sealcoating, APS Chip Sealing & Asphalt Paving provides professional asphalt sealcoating services for residential and commercial properties throughout Tucson, Phoenix, and surrounding Arizona communities.
Learn more about our professional asphalt sealcoating services or contact APS to request a free estimate.
