Sealcoating is a great way to extend the life of asphalt pavement. It also makes sweeping and cleaning the parking lot easier because it creates a smooth surface.
The process is typically performed from spring through fall. It requires a couple of days of dry, non-rainy weather to allow the seal coat to set properly. Visit https://www.rochesternysealcoating.com/ to learn more.
1. Protection
Sealcoating creates a barrier that keeps water from seeping into and weakening your asphalt. Water damage is costly to repair and can cause unsafe conditions for drivers and pedestrians. Staying ahead of pavement deterioration with regular sealing helps protect your investment and keep your property in good condition.
Asphalt is petroleum-based, so oil and other automotive fluids soften it over time. Leaks can cause even more damage if not cleaned up promptly, and can lead to the kind of potholes that require expensive repairs or replacement. Sealcoating helps prevent these leaks by creating a strong protective barrier that slows the softening process, giving you more time to clean up any spills and stop damage before it spreads.
Humidity also plays a big part in how quickly a seal coat dries. The water in the coating must evaporate into the air, and when humidity is high it takes longer for this to happen. Ideal humidity levels for a seal coat are below 60 percent.
In addition to protecting against oil, sealcoating provides a strong layer of protection for your pavement from sun damage and freezing temperatures. UV rays can fade the color of asphalt, and this damage is made worse by snow and ice that melts and freezes repeatedly. A sealcoat blocks the UV rays and slows the fading process, helping your pavement last longer.
Another way that sealcoating protects your pavement is by repelling water. This prevents water from sinking into and damaging the asphalt, which can spread cracks further apart or lead to severe structural damage over time. It also makes it much more difficult for the water to become icy on the road, which is a major safety hazard for both drivers and pedestrians.
The only way to ensure that your seal coat offers this level of protection is to have it applied correctly by a professional. A qualified contractor will make sure that the pavement surface is completely dry before applying a seal coat, and they will take care to fill all the cracks in your asphalt. This will help your sealcoat last as long as possible, and it will look beautiful for years to come.
2. Aesthetics
Whether it’s a residential driveway or a commercial parking lot, a well-maintained asphalt surface is not only more functional but also aesthetically pleasing. A cracked, faded, and weathered pavement leaves a negative first impression and suggests a lack of care and maintenance. In contrast, a sleek and jet-black sealcoated surface radiates elegance and sophistication. From a real estate standpoint, a freshly sealed surface can significantly boost property value.
Aesthetic Impact
When applied properly, the durable sealcoat provides a thick and even layer that conceals minor damage, rejuvenates the appearance of aging asphalt, and enhances the overall look of a property. As an added benefit, the smooth and non-porous surface characteristic of sealcoating facilitates cleanliness by preventing water accumulation. It also averts the growth of weeds and slows down oxidation.
In addition, the protective sealant fills in surface voids and minimizes exposure to oxygen and water, which extends pavement lifespan by a significant margin. This simple yet effective maintenance procedure also prevents the formation of potholes and cracks, which not only appear unsightly but pose a safety hazard for pedestrians.
As a preventive maintenance technique, sealcoating is a cost-efficient option when compared to the costly alternative of repairing or replacing damaged asphalt. Additionally, it can extend the interval between asphalt resurfacing projects by years.
The most important aspect to keep in mind is that a successful sealcoating project requires thorough preparation and application. Before applying the sealant, professionals clean the surface to remove all debris and contaminants that may hinder adhesion. Additionally, the surface must be completely dry before applying the sealant to ensure a strong bond.
If you’re ready to give your asphalt a fresh look, Buck Brothers offers quality sealcoating services at competitive prices. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discuss your needs! We can customize our services to meet your budget and timeline. We offer a wide range of finishes, from quartz sand to latex additives, and we can even apply textured coatings for enhanced skid resistance. We will ensure your asphalt is protected and beautiful for years to come.
3. Durability
Asphalt is an incredibly durable material, but its natural exposure to UV rays and harsh chemicals like water, oil, and road salt cause it to dry out and become brittle over time. Sealcoating protects your asphalt by providing a layer of protection that will slow down the degradation process and extend its lifespan.
The quality of the materials used in sealcoating is a crucial factor in determining its durability. Professional applicators, such as Salisbury Pro Sealers, only use high-grade products that offer superior longevity compared to low-grade DIY sealer options. Additionally, proper surface preparation is essential for a long-lasting sealcoat, including cleaning and repair of cracks and other imperfections in the surface.
Proper application is also vital to the durability of your sealcoat. A ride-on squeegee method is best for packing the sealant into the cracks and crevices of your asphalt, as opposed to spraying it on. This method ensures a smoother, more even appearance and increases the longevity of your asphalt’s lifespan.
Another factor in determining the durability of your sealcoat is its thickness. A properly-applied coat will be no more than one-eighth inch thick, creating a protective barrier that’s resistant to traffic and harsh weather conditions. When sealcoating is done correctly, your asphalt will be as mark-resistant as ever.
Finally, the amount of traffic and usage of your parking lot or driveway will impact how long your sealcoat lasts. Heavy-traffic areas will wear down more quickly than lighter-use areas, so regular maintenance and touch-ups may be necessary to prolong its life.
Aside from these factors, the lifespan of your asphalt sealcoat will depend on its frequency and duration. In order to get the most value out of your investment, it’s recommended that you have your sealcoat applied every 2 to 4 years, depending on the amount of traffic and usage your pavement experiences. Proper maintenance is also essential for extending the life of your sealcoat, such as regular sweeping, pressure washing, and prompt repair of any cracks or potholes as soon as they appear. By following these simple steps, you can ensure a long-lasting sealcoat that will keep your pavement looking brand-new.
4. Low Maintenance
Asphalt driveways and parking lots that aren’t seal coated are exposed to the elements and can develop cracks, potholes and other serious damage that requires costly repair. By simply applying a seal coat, these problems can be prevented before they occur and the surface of the pavement stays in pristine condition.
Seal coating also protects the pavement from oils and chemicals that can degrade the binder of the asphalt and lead to deterioration. Additionally, it protects the asphalt from UV rays that can cause fading and discoloration. If the driveway or parking lot has already deteriorated beyond a certain point, then no amount of sealcoating can restore it to a good condition. In this case, the damaged area needs to be leveled and repaired prior to being sealcoated.
The process of applying a seal coat isn’t as time-consuming as some people believe, and it is much faster than repairing severe blemishes or replacing the entire pavement. It is a good idea to have it done every two to three years to ensure that the asphalt lasts as long as possible.
Another benefit of sealcoating is that the work can be performed without the use of harmful solvents or chemicals. These chemicals can be detrimental to health and may even cause cancer, so it’s important to avoid them at all costs. Sealcoating is done by spraying a liquid over the asphalt that hardens and forms a protective layer. It is recommended that workers wear safety equipment like gloves and masks to avoid breathing in the chemicals.
While it is best to hire a professional to do the job, many property owners have been known to apply seal coating on their own. It’s essential to follow all instructions and guidelines that come with the product. Buying high quality sealant, cleaning the area and mixing it thoroughly are the most important steps in a successful application. It is also important to purchase a tool designed specifically for the job. Many companies offer manual agitation units that can keep the sealer mixed properly and prevent blockages.