What are the benefits of sealing an asphalt driveway?

1. A coated driveway will last longer and look better

Sealing an asphalt driveway helps it last longer and look better because it provides an extra layer of protection from harmful elements like UV rays, snow, oil, and chemicals. This protective layer can prevent the asphalt from hardening and crumbling and also creates an attractive, uniform coat over the pavement if cracks and holes are properly filled before the seal coating is applied. Additionally, seal coating is a cost-effective way of repairing or surfacing the existing pavement to extend its life. Applying seal coating every four to six years can also help increase the value of a property, as well as make it easier to clean the driveway or parking lot. Lastly, it can help reduce environmental costs because it extends the life of the pavement, preventing the need for costly repairs or replacements.

2. A coated driveway will be more waterproof and therefore less likely to leak.

Sealing an asphalt driveway helps to prevent leaks by creating an extra layer of protection that seals the surface and fills any cracks. This helps to protect the sublayers and foundation of the driveway from the elements such as UV rays, snow, oil and chemicals that can slowly get into the surface and destroy its foundation. By sealing the driveway, this prevents any potential leaks from occurring and delays the need to replace the driveway. Additionally, sealcoating also improves the curb appeal of the house, making it look more aesthetically pleasing.

3. A coated driveway will be more skid-resistant

Sealing an asphalt driveway with sand and seal coating will make it more skid-resistant as it improves traction and creates a more wear-able surface. The seal coating helps to protect the driveway from moisture and salt, which can cause the binder of the asphalt to harden and become brittle. The added sand also helps to make the surface more uniform and reduce the sun’s glare. Additionally, the sand helps to hide minor surface defects, further improving the overall skid-resistance of the driveway or parking lot.

4. A coated driveway will be less likely to crack or chip

Sealing an asphalt driveway is beneficial because it extends the life of the pavement, prevents hardening and crumbling, creates a uniform coat and texture, hides minor surface defects, improves traction, and adds value to the property. By sealing the driveway, it protects the asphalt from harmful salts, chemicals, and moisture, and creates a cost-effective way of repairing existing pavement. Additionally, adding sand to the seal coat improves the appearance with a uniform texture, reduced sun glare, and no streaking, and helps improve wear-ability. Seal coating is also a great way to keep your driveway looking new and adds value to your property. It not only saves you from having to pay for expensive asphalt repairs, but it also reduces the need for shoveling in colder climates due to the black color absorbing the heat from the sun and melting the snow. Investing in a professional seal coating service will ensure the best results and pave the way for a long-lasting, durable, and highly reliable driveway.

5. A coated driveway will be easier to maintain

Sealing an asphalt driveway with a protective coat will help maintain it for a longer period of time. This is due to the fact that the sealant creates a water-resistant layer that prevents the asphalt from being damaged by rain, hail, snow, sun and chemicals. Additionally, the sealant helps to fill in cracks and holes, which helps prevent further damage. The sealant also adds an attractive uniform coat, making it look better while also protecting it from further wear and tear. Lastly, the sealant creates a smoother surface, making it quicker and easier to clean.

6. A coated driveway will be more resistant to chemicals, stains, and other surface contaminants

Sealing an asphalt driveway helps protect it from chemicals, stains, and other surface contaminants by creating a barrier of protection between the asphalt and the outside environment. The seal coat is applied in thick liquid form and is composed of acrylics or bituminous-based products mixed with silica sand, water, various proprietary fillers, polymer additives, etc. Once it is applied, the seal coat soaks into the asphalt and creates an effective barrier between the asphalt and any outside contaminants, such as chemicals, oils, and dirt. This barrier of protection helps to keep the asphalt driveway looking clean and helps to prevent cracking or other damage that can occur from exposure to the elements.

7. A coated driveway will be more slip-resistant

Sealing an asphalt driveway helps to make it more slip-resistant by creating a protective barrier against UV rays, water, oil, and other oxidizing substances. The seal coat will also fill minor surface defects, improve traction, and reduce sun glare. Additionally, the seal coat will add a uniform texture, making the surface more skid-resistant. This protects the binder and enhances the aesthetic appearance of the driveway for about four years, adding value to the property.

8. A coated driveway will be more heat-resistant

Sealing an asphalt driveway with a seal coat helps to make it more heat-resistant because the seal coat contains additives that toughen the coat, bring a dark color, and prevent tire marks and footprints. The dark color absorbs the heat from the sun which melts the snow quickly, making it easier to remove. This means that the driveway is less likely to be damaged by the cold temperatures and snow, increasing its longevity and protecting it from the elements.

9. A coated driveway will be more noise-reducing

Sealing an asphalt driveway with a professional seal coating service can reduce noise for a variety of reasons. The sealant creates a smoother and more uniform surface, which helps to absorb sound waves and reduce the reverberation of sound. The sealant also helps to fill in cracks and crevices, which can further reduce noise and echo. Additionally, the sealant helps to protect the asphalt from moisture and chemicals, which can cause the pavement to expand and contract, creating more sound. Finally, the sealant also helps to make the surface more resistant to tire marks and footprints, which can create additional noise when vehicles and pedestrians pass over the surface. In summary, seal coating an asphalt driveway helps to reduce noise by creating a smoother and more uniform surface, filling in cracks and crevices, protecting the pavement from moisture and chemicals, and making the surface more resistant to tire marks and footprints.

10. A coated driveway will be more skid-resistant

Sealing an asphalt driveway with a seal coating can make it more skid-resistant due to the added sand. The sand adds texture to the driveway, reducing sun glare, hiding minor surface defects and improving traction. Furthermore, the seal coat itself is designed to toughen the coat, bring a dark color, prevent tire marks and footprints, dry the coat faster and keep the asphalt pavement intact. All these factors combined make the surface more skid-resistant and decrease the chances of slipping or sliding on a wet pavement.

What should you consider when maintaining a seal coated surface?

1. Consult with a Seal Coating Contractor

Consulting with a seal coating contractor can greatly help with maintaining a seal coated surface. This is because the contractor can evaluate the surface conditions, guide selection of the best products, and advise on the best timing for the project to ensure a high-quality, long-lasting finished product. Additionally, the contractor will be up-to-date on Storm Water Management Best Practices (BMPs) and ensure that the sealcoating project does not take place too close to a wetland or other environmentally sensitive areas. The contractor will also help ensure that all safety measures are properly taken care of, such as the use of personal protection equipment, and following the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) instructions. Additionally, the contractor can help ensure that the job is well-planned and executed in order to minimize delays and maximize the bottom line profits. By consulting with a seal coating contractor, you can ensure that your surface is well-maintained and safe for all personnel and the environment.

2. Check the Thickness of the Seal Coating

Step 1: Select a 10′ x 10′ area of the pavement and place a 3″x 6″ metal plate in the center.

Step 2: Spray Sealcoating in this area and lift the metal plate before the Sealcoating dries.

Step 3: Use a film thickness gauge to determine the wet film thickness in mils (1/1000 of an inch).

Step 4: Compare the wet film thickness to the desired film thickness for 0.12 gallon/ sq. yard coverage which is 21 mils.

3. Clean Any Debris or Contaminants from the Surface

Step 1: Use a power washer or a garden hose applicator to apply a driveway cleaner to the seal coated surface.

Step 2: Scrub the entire surface with a stiff-bristle push broom to remove all dirt, oil film, and any other debris.

Step 3: Flush the soap and dirt residue with a 40-degree power washer nozzle or a strong stream of water from your garden hose.

Step 4: Rinse the driveway with clear water and allow it to dry completely before applying any sealer.

Step 5: Perform a final sweep with a push broom to ensure the surface is completely clean.

4. Maintain the Seal Coated Surface with Regular Maintenance Treatments

Regular maintenance treatments for a seal coated surface should be performed every 3-4 years. The steps for performing regular maintenance treatments are as follows:

Clean the surface of the pavement by using a power washer or a stiff-bristle brush to remove any dirt, debris, or vegetation.

Fill any cracks or holes in the pavement with crack filler or patch material.

Apply the seal coat material using either a squeegee or a sprayer, following the manufacturer’s instructions for the number of coats and coverage rates.

Allow the seal coat material to dry and cure according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Inspect the seal coated surface periodically to make sure the material is in good condition and any repairs or touch-ups are done as needed.

5. Consider Using a Specialty Coatings to Protect Against Hail Damage

Yes, you should use a specialty coating to protect against hail damage when maintaining a seal coated surface. Sealcoating is designed to protect your paved areas, but hail can still cause damage to the seal coating. Specialty coatings are specifically designed to withstand hail and other forms of extreme weather, and they will help to keep your pavement looking new for longer. Wind can also cause problems during the application process, so it is important to choose a sealcoat that is designed to withstand the elements. With the right sealcoat and specialty coating, your asphalt surfaces can remain safe and protected for years to come.

6. Check the Specifications of the Road Authority

Check the weather forecast and make sure the conditions are suitable for sealcoating.

Barricade the driveway and do the general cleaning of the pavement.

Oil spot prime all oil spots.

Prepare to sealcoat according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Sealcoat the pavement with one or two coats, depending on the project specification.

Check for spots missed.

Make sure the barricades are in place and all tools are picked up.

Remove barricades the next day.

Strip with water-based traffic paints after the sealer has cured for 24 hours or more.

Layout markings using guidelines, templates, forms and stencils, and make sure all surfaces are free of dirt, sand, gravel, oil and other foreign matter.

Protect adjacent curbs, walks, fences, and other items from receiving paint.

Verify that the sealer has been given a minimum of 24 hours to cure with no traffic.

Inspect the project, making notes of the asphalt conditions, cracks, patching, and other special treatments needed.

Figure out your costing to get to the final bid price.

Submit a bid proposal that includes all the details of what is to be done.

Verify that the sealer meets all applicable specifications (ASTM, Federal, FAA, GSA, commercial, etc).

Obtain certification from the supplier and assurance that any complaints will be addressed and resolved promptly.

Make sure the sealer complies with all applicable regulations, including recently imposed restrictions of PAH’s levels in the sealer.

Make sure the sealer’s price is competitive with similar performance properties.

Ensure sealer is supplied as a concentrate or “ready to use”.

Monitor the seal coated surface regularly and make sure the sealer remains in good condition.

Make timely repairs as required, including repair of cracks, potholes, and other damages.

Re-apply sealer as needed to protect the surface from weather and wear.

7. Consider Using a Rubberizing Additives to Increase Slip Resistance

Rubberizing additives can help increase slip resistance when maintaining a seal coated surface by increasing the flexibility, durability, and toughness of the seal coating. Additionally, rubberizing additives can improve the sand suspension in the mix, even with higher sand loadings, and promote an evenly textured surface appearance. Sand is used to improve the texture of the seal coating and to reduce the sun glare, as well as to improve the traction and to help hide minor surface defects. The use of rubberizing additives can help ensure that the seal coating holds up better to oil, gas, and wear and tear over time.

8. Check the Weather Conditions before Applying the Seal Coating

It is important to check the weather conditions before applying a seal coating to a surface because the weather can have a severe impact on the success of the job. Temperature, humidity, precipitation, sunlight, and wind are all factors that need to be considered. If the seal coating is applied in wet or cold conditions, it can prevent the coating from adhering to the pavement and drying properly. In cold weather, the seal coat material may not dry and will not protect the pavement as well. Applying the seal coat in the rain or within 24 hours of rain can cause the coating to wash away before it has had enough time to dry, resulting in a poor-quality job. Therefore, it is essential to check the weather conditions before tackling a seal coating project to ensure the best results and long-lasting protection.

9. Mix the Seal Coating Properly

Mixing seal coating properly is an important part of a successful seal coating job. To mix the seal coating properly, follow these steps:

Obtain the proper mix design from the seal coating supplier based on the job requirements.

Make sure the water, sand and/or aggregate, and additives (if applicable) are all clean and free of any suspended solids and metal contaminants.

Once all the components are in place, mix them together in a seal coating machine with mechanical agitation.

Keep the machine running throughout the entire process to ensure a thorough mix.

Make sure the mix has a pH of between 7-8.

Add the right amount of water to give the mix the proper fluidity. Too little water and the mix will be too thick and will not spread evenly, while too much water will make the mix too thin.

Do not alter the mix design without the prior approval of the manufacturer and/or the project engineer.

When applying the product, use a pressure washer to clean cracks and remove debris and vegetation.

If necessary, mix in sand to provide a non-slippery surface and a uniform texture.

Apply the seal coating according to specifications and manufacturer instructions. Avoid applying a single thick coat, instead use two or more thin coats in alternating directions.

Dry and cure between coats.

Be careful to avoid staining other surfaces while applying the seal coating.

If the area is large, consider spraying rather than using squeegees.

If there are oil stains, use an oil stain primer prior to applying the seal coating.

Do not use seal coating to fill potholes; use asphalt or pothole fill products instead.

Before using up one bucket of seal coating product, blend in the next one to help maintain color uniformity.

By following these steps, you can ensure that the seal coating is properly mixed and applied for the best results.

10. Ensure the Application of the Seal Coating is Done Professionally

Step 1: Read the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) and the manufactures’ brochures/instructions on sealcoating and all the products prior to application. Ensure that safety in handling, application, clean up, and discharge of the washing is strictly followed for the safety of the workers and the environment.

Step 2: Select the right equipment and tools for the job at hand. Make sure that all are in good working condition and have spare parts available for on-site repairs.

Step 3: Properly plan the sealcoating job, including the right size of the crew, well-delineated task order, and minimizing chances for delays such as multiple runs to the factory for sealer.

Step 4: Follow Stormwater Management Best Practices (BMPs) to minimize environmental impacts and protect resources and sensitive areas. Do not sealcoat within 100 feet of a wetland.

Step 5: Furnish the crew with all necessary personal protection equipment and explain and enforce safety requirements.

Step 6: Apply seal coatings according to specifications and manufacturer’s instructions for the number of coats and coverage rates.

Step 7: Ensure that at least two coats are applied for optimum performance and that application of the sealer is done when temperature is nearly 50 degrees Fahrenheit and is predicted to increase or stay the same for at least 24 hours.

Step 8: Avoid seal coating application during the rainy season or when rain is predicted in the next 24 hours.

Step 9: Allow no foot or vehicle traffic on the pavement for at least 24 hours after the coat is applied.

Step 10: Follow the drying time in between the coats and the final cure.

Tips on how to keep your seal coated surface in good condition

1. Keep It Clean

Step 1: Clear Weeds: Use a weed eater or pull all weeds that are on the edge or growing up in the driveway.

Step 2: Remove Loose Asphalt: Dislodge loose material from the edges of small potholes and large cracks. Use a wire or you can blast out loose material with water from a hose nozzle or with compressed air.

Step 3: Scrub Area: For best adhesion of crack filler or compound and driveway sealer/filler, scrub the entire driveway with a diluted driveway cleaner to remove all dirt and oil film. Pay particular attention to areas to be filled or patched. This can also be achieved with a power washer.

Step 4: Apply Soap: Use the soap nozzle on your power washer or a garden hose applicator to apply the driveway cleaner.

Step 5: Scrub: Then scrub the entire driveway with a stiff-bristle push broom.

Step 6: Rinse: Rinse the driveway thoroughly with your power washer.

Step 7: Allow to Dry: Allow the driveway to dry completely before applying sealcoating or crack filler.

2. Don’t Drive on It When It’s Wet

If your seal coated surface is wet, the following steps should be taken to protect the surface:

1) Wait for the surface to dry before attempting to apply any additional seal coat material.

2) If the surface remains wet for an extended period of time, remove any standing water before applying a fresh coat of sealer.

3) Check the temperature and ensure it is at least 50 degrees Fahrenheit and predicted to stay that way for at least 24 hours.

4) Make sure there is no foot or vehicle traffic on the pavement for at least 24 hours after the coat is applied.

5) If it is raining, turn off any nearby sprinklers. It is not recommended to apply seal coat material in the rain or when rain is expected in the next 24 hours.

3. Avoid Debris, Oil and Gravel

Some tips on avoiding debris, oil, and gravel that can damage a seal coated surface include:

Clear weeds using a weed eater or by pulling them up.

Remove loose asphalt from the edges of small potholes and large cracks using a wire brush or by blasting out the loose material with water or compressed air.

Scrub the entire driveway with a diluted driveway cleaner to remove dirt and oil film, paying particular attention to areas to be filled or patched. This can also be achieved with a power washer.

Avoid excessive sanding or sanding when the relative humidity is high as this can cause streaking and glares.

Patch any damaged asphalt sections, including potholes and alligator areas, as well as soft areas.

Treat any oil spots with a priming and other treatments before applying sealer.

Read the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) and the manufacturer’s instructions on sealcoating and all the products prior to application.

Ensure that the equipment and tools used for the job are in good working condition and that spare parts are handy for on-site repairs.

Plan with the right size of the crew, well-delineated task orders, and attempt to minimize chances of delays.

Follow good sealcoating practices with special attention to StormWater Management Best Practices (BMPs).

Furnish the crew with all necessary personal protection equipment, explain and enforce safety requirements.

Keep sealer off concrete surfaces.

Put away unnecessary tools between coats and keep applicators clean.

Complete work orders promptly and keep account of material application rate.

Workers should know their job and be able to speak knowledgeably about what is being done.

Keep all equipment on cleaned pavement once you start application.

Never run any vehicles over partially dried material.

4. Don’t Let It Get Too Hot or Cold

Step 1: Ensure the Pavement Temperature is Appropriate: Before applying a sealer, the pavement must be at a temperature of at least 50° F and the air temperature should be 50° F and rising. If the temperature is too hot, dampen the surface with clean water to cool it down before applying the sealer. In cold weather, sealers should be protected if the temperature drops below 40° F (4° C).

Step 2: Choose the Right Time of Day: To ensure that the sealer can properly dry, it is best to apply the sealer as early in the day as possible. Avoid applying the sealer in the late afternoon or evening, as the temperature may drop below freezing and cause the sealer to disband or shatter.

Step 3: Avoid Rain and Wet Weather: Sealers should never be applied in rainy or wet weather, or when rain is anticipated within 8 hours after application.

Step 4: Monitor the Surface: After the sealer is applied, it is important to monitor the surface for any signs of wear and tear. Make sure to repair any cracks, potholes, or other damage as soon as possible to prevent further wear and tear.

Step 5: Reapply Every Few Years: Depending on the climate and how much traffic the surface sees, the sealer should be reapplied every 3-5 years. This will help keep the pavement looking fresh and prevent further damage.

5. Don’t Scratch It

Immediately mop up any spilled sealer on the surface.

Inspect the damaged area and determine the extent of the damage.

If the damage is minor, lightly sand the area with a 120-grit sandpaper.

Vacuum the area to remove any dust and debris.

Apply a thin layer of asphalt cold-patch, sold in bags and cans, or crack-filler, which is available in cans, plastic pour bottles, to fill any cracks or holes in the surface.

Allow the cold-patch or crack-filler to dry for at least 24 hours.

Apply a sealer according to the manufacturer’s instructions, using a brush or roller.

Allow the sealer to dry for at least 24 hours.

Once the sealer has dried, apply a light coat of sand for traction and a uniform textured glare-free appearance.

Finally, stripe with water-based traffic paint, after the final coat of the sealer has cured for at least 24 hours.

6. Maintain a Uniform Thickness

Step 1: Use a film thickness gauge to measure the wet film thickness of the seal coat being applied. This is the most accurate way to determine the film thickness.

Step 2: Select an area of 10’x10’ on the pavement and place a 3×6” metal plate in the center of the area.

Step 3: Apply the seal coat to this area and before it dries, lift the metal plate to measure the wet film thickness with the film thickness gauge.

Step 4: Compare the wet film thickness with the recommended film thickness for 0.12 gallons/sq. yard coverage, which is 21 mils.

Step 5: Add sand to the seal coat to provide a uniform texture, reduce sun glare and hide minor surface defects. This will also improve traction and wear-ability.

Step 6: Adjust the application rate of the seal coat so that the material is evenly spread over the entire width of the application mechanism. Use mechanized equipment for larger areas and hand squeegees or brushes for places not accessible by the mechanized equipment.

Step 7: Add the appropriate amount of water to the seal coat to give it proper fluidity and ensure that it does not become too thick or too thin. The water should be clean, potable and have a pH within the range of 7-8.

Step 8: Use stencils and templates to layout markings and ensure that the paint is applied without streaks.

Step 9: Finally, keep all equipment on a cleaned pavement surface and never run any vehicles over the partially dried material.

7. Use Quality Sealcoating Materials

Using quality sealcoating materials is essential for a successful sealcoating job and keeping your seal coated surfaces in good condition for years to come. Here are some tips for using quality sealcoating materials:

Familiarize yourself with your product: Read up on the product you are using so that you understand the product’s performance properties, such as how it reacts to temperature, humidity, sunlight and other weather conditions.

Choose the right sealer: Select a sealer that is specifically formulated for the surface you are coating.

Prepare the surface for sealcoating: Before you can apply the sealer, the surface must be clean and free of dirt and debris. Use a high-pressure washer to remove any dirt or contaminants.

Patch any cracks and holes: Fill any cracks or holes with a quality asphalt patch material before sealing.

Apply the sealer in thin layers: Use a sprayer, squeegee, or brush to apply the sealer in thin layers. Allow the sealer to dry between layers.

Clean up any spills: Be sure to clean up any spills immediately as sealer can be difficult to remove once it has dried.

Monitor the seal coated surface: Monitor the sealed surface frequently for signs of wear or damage. Be sure to address any issues quickly and repair any damage to ensure the surface remains in good condition.

8. Apply It with Quality Equipment

Step 1: Gather the necessary equipment and tools to perform the sealcoating. This includes an applicator such as a spray unit or squeegee/brush unit, a pumping distribution to ensure even coating, stencils, paint, tape measure, chalk line, nails, hammer, and paint brush.

Step 2: Read the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) and manufacturer’s brochures/instructions on sealcoating and all the products prior to application. Make sure all workers are aware of the safety procedures and requirements.

Step 3: Make sure that the relative humidity is low before adding water to the mix in order to achieve the desired coating rate.

Step 4: Make long passes with the applicator to get a better finished appearance.

Step 5: Keep the sealer away from any concrete surfaces.

Step 6: Before beginning the application, put away unnecessary tools and keep the applicators clean.

Step 7: While applying the sealer, keep all equipment on cleaned pavement.

Step 8: Once the sealer has been applied, do not run any vehicles over partially dried material.

Step 9: If necessary, use a hand squeegee or brush application for places not accessible to the mechanized equipment.

Step 10: After the sealer is applied, measure the application rate and complete the work orders promptly.

Step 11: When necessary, add sand to the sealer to create a non-slippery surface and provide consistency.

9. Make Sure It’s Professionally Applied

Read the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) and manufacturers’ brochures/instructions on sealcoating and all the products prior to application. Safety in handling, application, clean up and discharge of the washing should be strictly followed for the safety of the workers and the environment.

Select the appropriate equipment and tools for the job at hand. All should be in good working condition and spare parts should be handy for on-site repairs.

Thoroughly clean the surface to be sealed, free of dirt, sand, gravel, oil and other foreign matter.

Protect adjacent curbs, walks, fences, and other items from receiving paint.

Verify that the new pavement coatings will be given a minimum of 24 hours to cure with no traffic.

Layout markings using guidelines, templates and forms. Stencils and templates should be professionally made to industry standards, and “free hand” painting should never be allowed.

Keep relative humidity in mind when determining the amount of water that should be added to the mix. RULE: If humidity is high, add less water.

Make sure to use application equipment that is capable of applying the required coating rates evenly over the entire width of the application mechanism to provide a uniformly coated surface.

Longer passes with the applicator will make a better finished appearance.

Put away unnecessary tools and keep applicators clean between coats.

Complete work orders promptly and keep account of material application rate.

Workers should know their job and be able to speak knowledgeably about what is being done.

Keep all equipment on cleaned pavement once you start application.

Never run any vehicles over partially dried material.

Follow good sealcoating practices with special attention to StormWater Management Best Practices (BMPs).

Furnish the crew with all personal protection equipment.

Straight, crisp clean lines and stencils are a must. Chalking all lines on a new layout job will ensure straightness.

10. Check It Regularly and Re-Seal as Needed

To ensure that your seal coated surface is in optimal condition, it is recommended that you check it every three to five years. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to check and re-seal your seal coated surface if needed:

Inspect the condition of the seal coat by looking for any signs of wear and tear. Look for any peeling or cracking in the surface.

If there are any areas of wear and tear, repair them before resealing the surface. Repair any cracks or holes with a suitable asphalt repair caulk and fill any gaps with crack filler.

If the condition of the seal coat is still satisfactory after inspection, then no repairs are necessary and the seal coat can be left as it is.

If repairs are necessary, make sure to wait for the repaired areas to cure and harden before continuing with the re-sealing process.

Before applying the seal coat, make sure the temperature is above 50 degrees Fahrenheit and is predicted to stay the same or increase over the next 24 hours.

Apply the seal coat according to the manufacturer’s instructions, making sure to apply at least two coats for optimum performance.

Allow the seal coat to cure for at least 24 hours before allowing any foot or vehicle traffic on the surface.

After the seal coat has fully cured, stripe the surface with water based traffic paint.

Re-inspect the surface regularly to make sure that the seal coat remains in good condition, and re-apply sealant as necessary.

FAQ

What is sealcoating?

Sealcoating is a process by which a liquid sealant is applied to an existing asphalt pavement in order to protect the underlying layers and foundation from the elements. The sealcoat is typically composed of acrylics, bituminous-based products, silica sand, water, fillers, polymer additives, and other components. It is applied with high-powered machines that spray or brush the coat onto the surface. This coat helps to extend the life of asphalt surfaces by up to 300%, and also provides aesthetic benefits. Sealcoating acts as a protective barrier between the asphalt and destructive elements such as ultraviolet rays, gasoline, oils, salts, and fat. The process also helps to keep cracks from forming and can be beneficial in maintaining the integrity of pavement surfaces.

How often should a seal coated surface be maintained?

A seal coated surface should be maintained every two to three years for normal use, or every year if the pavement experiences heavy traffic. The ideal time to sealcoat is in the summer or when the temperature reaches at least 50 degrees Fahrenheit. The sealcoating process should not be applied until after one year of the initial pavement placement to allow proper cure and wear of the surface. Sealcoating must be done when the temperature is at least 50° and will not drop below that level for at least a few weeks. Two coats of sealant should be applied, with the first coat applied after 6 months to a year following installation, and the second coat applied as soon as the surface rids of light oils through oxidation, usually 4-6 weeks, depending on geographical locations.

What are the benefits of sealcoating?

The benefits of sealcoating are numerous and include extending the life of the driveway or parking lot, creating an attractive, uniform coat over the pavement, protecting the driveway from salts, chemicals and moisture, being easy to apply with squeegees or sprayers, being a cost-effective way of repairing or surfacing the existing pavement, restoring a deep, shiny black appearance, forming a protective barrier against UV rays, water, oil and other oxidizing substances, replenishing the degraded petroleum binder and specifically formulated oils, keeping the asphalt from becoming brittle, drying out, cracking and crumbling, adding value to the property, and providing an increase in the surface friction. Seal coating is a great way to protect and preserve asphalt paving and should be considered for any driveway or parking lot.

What materials are used in sealcoating?

Sealcoating is a process of preserving and maintaining asphalt pavements and surfaces. It involves applying a protective sealant to the surface to protect it from environmental damage caused by sun, water, and other chemicals. The most commonly used seal coatings are based on refined coal tar and asphalt emulsion coatings. Other materials commonly used include acrylics and fast-dry sealers. Coal tar sealers are generally less expensive and may require more product management, while asphalt emulsion coatings are easier to apply and emit fewer volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Acrylic sealers are composed mostly of acrylic and polymers, and are more expensive but less harmful to the environment. Fast-dry sealers are usable for traffic in a single day, but they do not last as long.

What type of asphalt should be used for sealcoating?

When it comes to sealcoating asphalt, there are several options available. Coal tar sealer and asphalt emulsion coatings are the most commonly used. Coal tar sealer is cheaper and more often applied by professional crews, but it requires more product management and can result in fuel and chemical spillage on the surface. Asphalt emulsion sealers are easier to apply, emit fewer VOCs and are more resistant to chemical spills, but the protective layer is less durable. Acrylic sealers and fast-dry sealers are also available, but their protective layers are not as long-lasting.

When choosing a sealer for your asphalt, it’s important to consider the product’s solids content, as higher solids content indicates a higher-quality sealant. Additionally, the environment and health risks associated with the sealer should be taken into account, as well as the amount of time it takes for the sealer to dry and become trafficable. Lastly, take into consideration the guarantees offered by the sealcoat service provider when making a decision.

What temperature should the pavement surface be for sealcoating?

The application of a sealcoat requires careful consideration of temperature. For successful application, the pavement surface and the air must both be at least 55 degrees Fahrenheit, and the ideal temperature range is between 55 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit. The binder used in many seal coatings can also melt at temperatures above 100 degrees Fahrenheit, and so it is important to be aware of the temperature of the surface and the surrounding air to ensure that the sealcoat material adheres properly and that the drying time is not affected. Furthermore, the sealcoat should not be applied if the temperature is expected to drop below 32 degrees Fahrenheit within the next 24 hours, as the sealer film will disbond and/or shatter in such conditions. For these reasons, it is clear to see that the pavement surface temperature for sealcoating must be at least 55 degrees Fahrenheit.

How do you apply sealcoating?

Step 1: Gather your supplies and equipment. Make sure you have safety glasses, gloves, and shoes ready for use.

Step 2: Prepare the driveway by cleaning all cracks and removing all debris and vegetation and using a degreaser for cleaning the entire surface area.

Step 3: Repair any potholes and cracks with a crack sealer for smaller cracks and an asphalt repair mix for larger potholes. Then, cut in borders with a 4-inch paint brush.

Step 4: Apply the sealant according to the product instructions and be careful to pour the sealant only onto the driveway surface areas. For new driveways, apply two coats.

Step 5: Allow the sealant to fully cure before allowing vehicles onto the driveway.

Step 6: When the temperature is nearly 50 degrees Fahrenheit, apply the seal coating only when there is no rain predicted in the next 24 hours.

Step 7: Apply two coats of seal coating for optimum performance and ensure that the drying time and final cure are strictly followed.

Step 8: Be careful during application, as seal coat products can stain other areas, such as adjoining concrete surfaces.

What is the curing process for sealcoating?

The curing process for sealcoating is a two-step process – drying and curing. The first step is for the sealcoating to dry completely, releasing its water-based content into the surrounding air. As the moisture leaves the coating, the wet film shrinks in volume, leading to a denser film and the binder particles fusing together to form a continuous film.

The second step is the final curing, which depends on the mix design, coverage rate and the ambient conditions, such as temperature, humidity and wind velocity. To ensure optimum performance, all the water must leave the film and the surface must be completely dry.

The drying process typically occurs in successive layers, from top to bottom. The top layer will dry first, then the layer beneath, and so on. The majority of the moisture leaves the coating relatively quickly, but the final minor part of the moisture will need extra time to leave the sealcoating.

Finally, make sure to apply the seal coatings according to specifications and manufacturer’s instructions for the number of coats and coverage rates. Any deviations should be pre-approved by the sealer producer and the drying time in between coats and the final cure should be strictly followed.

What are the most common sealcoating mistakes?

The most common sealcoating mistakes include failure to clean and prep the driveway before applying the sealer, insufficiently stirring the sealer, using an inappropriate applicator, applying asphalt sealer too often, inadequate job evaluation and competitive bidding, inadequate pavement assessment, insufficient measurement of the area, inadequate job costing, and poor traffic marking. To avoid these mistakes, it is essential to clean and prep the driveway, properly stir the sealer, select the right applicator, apply the sealer only when needed, carry out a thorough job evaluation and competitive bidding process, assess the pavement, measure the area accurately, factor in job costing, and make sure that traffic markings are done neatly. If the area is large, consider spraying it instead of using squeegees.

What should be done to prepare the surface for sealcoating?

Step 1: Prepare the driveway by getting rid of all grasses, weeds and any other debris on the surface. Use a degreaser to clean the entire surface area and rinse the area with a pressure washer.

Step 2: Repair potholes and cracks with specialized crack sealers and asphalt repair mix. Cut in borders with a 4-inch paint brush.

Step 3: Apply the sealant according to manufacturer instructions. For new driveways, it’s recommended to apply two coats.

Step 4: Do a thorough inspection of the entire area for stains and cracks that need to be repaired. Use soapy water and brush for removing oil and grease stains. Use the best crack fillers for repairing the cracks and holes.

Step 5: Evaluate the job and competitive bidding. Perform a pavement assessment to identify the extent and size of cracks, condition of the base and subbase, surface contamination, and polished aggregates.

Step 6: Ensure automatic sprinkler systems are turned off during sealer application and for a minimum of 24 hours after application of the final coat.