What is seal coating?

Sealcoating is a process that involves applying a specially-formulated liquid coating to asphalt pavement to protect it from water penetration, sun damage, and various other elements that can degrade the surface over time. This liquid coating hardens to form a thin layer of protection, providing a smoother driving or parking surface as well as a deep, dark finish that looks great. Sealcoating is not used to repair existing asphalt defects, but rather as a preventative measure to keep your pavement in good condition and extend its life. The sealcoating process involves clearing the area of debris, priming oils and chemical spills, and then applying a few coats of commercial-grade sealant. Sealcoating should be done every 2-5 years in order to ensure the asphalt remains in good condition and can withstand the elements.

What are the benefits of seal coating over paving?

1. Seal Coating Provides Long-Term Protection Against Damage and Abrasion

Sealcoating is a protective layer applied to the surface of asphalt pavement to prevent damage from UV rays, rain, snow, and automobile fluids. Sealcoat acts as a shield from chemicals and other environmental elements that can deteriorate the quality of the pavement. When applied correctly, sealcoating can help delay the need for asphalt resurfacing and even replacement. As opposed to asphalt resurfacing, sealcoating is much more cost-effective since it only requires a thin layer of sealant. This sealant is spread over the existing asphalt pavement and sets into a thin layer. It provides the pavement with a rich black finish and a robust layer of protection against corrosive chemicals, moisture, and UV light. By keeping the sealcoating fresh, it can help ensure the asphalt pavement remains in good condition and stands the test of time.

2. Seal Coating Improves Appearance of Pavement

Sealcoating is an effective and economical way to maintain the appearance of your asphalt pavement. It can bring back the rich, deep color that it had when it was new, and also serves as a protective coating that blocks harmful UV rays and automotive fluids from damaging the pavement. Not only does it improve the look of your pavement, but it also offers a protective layer that extends the life of the pavement and boosts the curb appeal of your home.

Comparing sealcoating to resurfacing, both options provide a beautiful look to your driveway or parking lot. While resurfacing involves replacing and repairing damaged asphalt pavement, sealcoating simply applies a protective layer of sealant over the surface of your asphalt driveways. Sealcoating also has a longer lifespan than resurfacing, but resurfacing is more effective in repairing existing defects.

Overall, sealcoating is a great way to improve the appearance and durability of your pavement. It offers a protective layer to guard against corrosive chemicals, moisture and UV light, while also giving your asphalt driveway a smooth surface and a rich black finish.

3. Seal Coating Helps to Reduce Oil Leaks and Potholes

Sealcoating helps reduce oil leaks and potholes by providing a protective layer over asphalt surfaces. The sealcoat forms a barrier between the asphalt and corrosive chemicals, UV light, and moisture, which can all contribute to the degradation of the pavement. This barrier prevents oil from seeping into the asphalt and causing surface damage. The sealcoat also helps to fill minor surface cracks, reducing the risk of larger potholes forming.

4. Seal Coating Reduces Heating and Cooling Costs

Sealcoating provides a protective layer against the elements, helping to reduce heating and cooling costs. As a preventive measure, sealcoating blocks harmful UV rays and guards against automotive fluids that can damage asphalt. It also reduces friction, creating a smoother driving or parking surface that decreases the need for air conditioning in the summer and heating in the winter. Whereas asphalt paving is a repair service and does not provide protection from the elements, sealcoating is ideal for pavement maintenance. The sealant helps retain the pavement’s rich black color and smooth surface, while its protective layer acts as a shield from the sun, moisture, and chemicals. Because sealcoating is an inexpensive solution compared to asphalt resurfacing and replacement, it is a cost-effective way to reduce heating and cooling costs for the long-term.

5. Seal Coating Increases Tire Traction

Sealcoating increases tire traction by providing a thin protective layer that is typically made of refined tar or petroleum products. This protective layer reduces the friction on the asphalt surface, which in turn helps to increase traction for vehicles, bicycles, and pedestrians. The sealcoat also helps to protect the surface from UV light, corrosive chemicals, moisture, and oil leaks. This reduced wear and tear on the asphalt surface helps to maintain the integrity and strength of the asphalt, making it safer for vehicles, cyclists, and pedestrians. Sealcoating also helps to retain the rich black color of the asphalt, which makes it easier to see in low light conditions, thus increasing the visibility of the pavement and increasing tire traction.

6. Seal Coating Lowers Noise Levels

Sealcoating helps to lower noise levels by providing a protective layer that absorbs sound and vibration. This layer helps to dampen the sound and vibrations caused by traffic, reducing the amount of noise that is emitted from the pavement surface. In addition, the sealant fills in small cracks and crevices that can cause a buzzing or clicking noise when cars pass over them. This helps to reduce the overall noise level in the area.

7. Seal Coating Offers Easy Maintenance

Sealcoating is a much more affordable and easier maintenance procedure than pavement resurfacing or replacement. It offers a protective shield against damaging environmental elements such as UV rays, moisture, and chemical spills that can break down asphalt. Sealcoating is a liquid mixture that can be applied to the surface of an asphalt driveway or parking lot, providing a hard protective layer that will retain color and a smooth surface. This cost-effective solution can extend the life of your asphalt pavement and delay the need for resurfacing and replacement. By contrast, resurfacing and replacement can be far more expensive, costing dollars or more per square foot. Sealcoating also keeps asphalt looking attractive, with a deep, dark finish that boosts the curb appeal of your property. Moreover, sealcoating can be applied every two years, while pavement resurfacing may need to be done every five to ten years.

8. Seal Coating Reduces Storm Water Infiltration

Sealcoating helps reduce stormwater infiltration by forming a protective shield over asphalt surfaces. This shield prevents water from penetrating the surface and causing damage to the pavement and its sub layers. The sealcoat acts as a barrier to the elements, helping to reduce the amount of water that can seep into cracks, crevices, and other areas. The sealcoat also helps to protect against UV rays and automobile fluids, both of which can degrade asphalt surfaces over time. By providing a protective barrier against the weather, sealcoating can reduce the amount of stormwater infiltration, ultimately helping to extend the life of your pavement.

9. Seal Coating Helps to Extend Pavement Life

Sealcoating helps to extend the life of asphalt pavement by providing a protective layer that blocks harmful UV rays and guards against automotive fluids that can damage the asphalt pavement. The sealcoat layer also helps to fill minor cracks and defects, and provides a durable layer of protection against UV light, corrosive chemicals, moisture, and oil leaks. When applied regularly, the protective seal coat layer helps to extend the life of asphalt pavement, reduce the need for expensive repairs, and maintain the pavement’s rich black color and smooth surface.

10. Seal Coating is Cost-Effective Compared to Repaving

Seal coating and repaving are two different processes for maintaining pavement. Sealcoating is a liquid mixture that is spread and hardened in a thin layer over existing asphalt to seal the surface and fill cracks, giving the pavement a rich black finish and a layer of durable protection. On the other hand, repaving is a more extreme measure, which involves tearing out the old pavement, rebuilding the foundations, and adding a brand new asphalt layer. Sealcoating is much more cost-effective than repaving, and is usually applied early on after the pavement is first set down. But when the asphalt has significant valleys that fill with standing water or large sections of spreading, interconnected cracks that are crumbling away, resurfacing or repaving might be the only option.

What are the pros and cons of seal coating vs repaving?

1. Seal Coating Has Fewer Negative Effects on the Environment

Sealcoating is an environmentally friendly alternative to repaving, as it helps to delay the resurfacing and replacement of asphalt pavement. Sealcoating involves applying a liquid sealant to the existing asphalt surface to seal it and fill in any cracks, while repaving requires replacing the entire asphalt surface. Sealcoating lasts longer and is much more cost-effective than repaving. It also produces fewer volatile organic compounds (VOCs) than traditional coal tar sealer, making it a more environmentally friendly option. Depending on the sealer used, sealcoating can provide additional protection against oils, gasoline, and UV damage, preserving the underlying asphalt foundation. All in all, sealcoating is a more sustainable and cost-effective choice compared to repaving.

2. Seal Coating Can Be Effectively Applied on Aging Asphalt Surfaces

Yes, seal coating can be applied on aging asphalt surfaces. Sealcoating is a cost-effective solution that revitalizes the top layer of asphalt, renewing its defenses against UV light, moisture, and corrosive chemical spills. It should be applied to new pavement as soon as it is fully cured, and then fresh sealcoating should be applied periodically. Sealcoating also reduces friction, creating a smoother driving or parking surface. The process protects the sublayers and foundation from the elements and delays driveway replacement.

3. Seal Coating Can Extend the Life of an Asphalt Surface

Seal coating can extend the life of an asphalt surface by providing a protective layer that prevents damage from UV rays, rain, snow, and automobile fluids. The process seals the surface and fills any minor cracks or defects, thereby slowing the expected asphalt degradation that results from freeze-thaw cycles, road salt, oil, gasoline, and sun exposure. It also gives the asphalt a rich black color, making it look like it was freshly paved. Regular sealcoating is recommended for all asphalt driveways at least six months old, and an application of sealcoating should last about three years if the pavement is in decent shape. Sealcoating helps to preserve the driveways and parking lots, and can significantly extend their lifespan.

4. Seal Coating Can Increase the Aesthetic Appeal of a Driveway

Sealcoating can make a huge difference in the aesthetic appeal of a driveway, compared to asphalt paving or resurfacing. Whereas asphalt paving uses a new overlay of asphalt to repair or replace an aging driveway, sealcoating uses a thin layer of liquid sealant to cover up cracks, fill in holes, and give the driveway a brand new, black finish. This can help protect the driveway from UV rays, precipitation, and corrosive chemical spills. Sealcoating also adds a beautiful, rich black color to the driveway, which can transform its look and make it look like it was just freshly paved. However, sealcoating is not a solution to big cracks and potholes, so any necessary repairs should be done before sealcoating the driveway. Regular sealcoating is recommended for all asphalt driveways at least six months old, and can extend the life of a driveway for many years.

5. Seal Coating Is Less Costly Than Repaving

Sealcoating and repaving are two commonly used methods for preserving asphalt surfaces such as driveways and parking lots. Sealcoating is a cost-effective solution that involves applying a liquid sealant over an existing asphalt pavement to seal the surface and fill any cracks. This layer of protection helps prevent extensive cracking, potholes, and other degradation from prematurely aging the pavement. Sealcoating is mere pennies per square foot compared to dollars or more per square foot for repaving and replacement.

Repaving involves adding a completely new asphalt surface (sometimes called an overlay) OVER the existing asphalt pavement. It is typically used in cases where the asphalt shows serious signs of failure with significant valleys that fill with standing water when it rains, or large sections of spreading, interconnected cracks that are crumbling away. Repaving is a more expensive option than sealcoating but is necessary in cases of severe damage.

6. Seal Coating Is Faster Than Repaving

Sealcoating and repaving are two of the most common asphalt maintenance services available. Sealcoating is a preventative and protective treatment that is applied to the existing asphalt pavement to protect it from the elements and extend its life. The sealcoating process involves applying a liquid sealant that seals the surface and fills cracks, and is recommended for all asphalt driveways at least six months old. It typically takes a few hours to apply the sealcoat, which should be done every 1.5-3 years.

Resurfacing is a more extensive service that involves adding a completely new asphalt surface (sometimes called an overlay) over the existing asphalt pavement. It is a cost-saving measure used when pavement shows significant signs of failure. The resurfacing process is more involved, and can take several days or a week to complete, depending on the size and condition of the asphalt.

7. Seal Coating Can Increase the Friction of an Asphalt Surface

Sealcoating increases the friction of an asphalt surface by creating a smoother driving or parking surface. By applying a protective seal coat every couple of years, the surface of the asphalt is preserved from UV light, moisture, and corrosive chemical spills that can cause cracking and potholes. The sealcoat is a thin layer of liquid mixture that hardens over the asphalt and acts as a protective shield against damage. This protective layer also reduces friction, creating a smoother driving or parking surface that is both long-lasting and environmentally friendly.

8. Seal Coating Can Help Prevent Potholes and Holes from Forming

Seal coating can help prevent potholes and holes from forming by creating a protective layer on the surface of your asphalt pavement. This layer blocks harmful UV rays and guards against automotive fluids that can degrade the material. Additionally, the sealant fills in small cracks and flaws, helping to keep the pavement smooth and strong. However, larger cracks and potholes need to be repaired prior to sealcoating, as the sealer will not fill in or repair these significant flaws. Seal coating can also restore the deep, rich color that asphalt pavement often fades to over time, giving the pavement a refreshed look. Overall, seal coating is an effective and affordable maintenance procedure that can extend the life of your asphalt pavement and prevent potholes and holes from forming.

9. Seal Coating Can Provide a Coat of Protection Against Weather and Damage

Sealcoating is a liquid that is applied over existing asphalt pavement. The sealcoating provides a layer of protection from environmental elements like corrosive chemicals, UV light and moisture. This helps prevent damage to the pavement, as well as retaining its rich black finish. It also reduces friction on the surface, creating a smoother driving or parking surface.

In contrast, asphalt paving is a method used for repairs and not as preventive maintenance. Paving does not provide protection from UV light, moisture, and corrosive chemicals like sealcoating does. Instead, asphalt paving is used to fill cracks and potholes.

Therefore, sealcoating helps protect asphalt from the elements and from damage, whereas asphalt paving is used to repair existing defects. Sealcoating should be applied to new pavement as soon as it is fully cured, and then fresh sealcoating should be applied periodically in order to maximize its protective benefits.

10. Seal Coating Can Result in a Cohesive Bond Between the Asphalt and the Sealer

Seal coating creates a cohesive bond between the asphalt and the sealer by forming a protective layer on top of the asphalt. This layer hardens and seals the asphalt, preventing moisture, UV light, and other elements from compromising the integrity of the pavement. The layer also helps to fill small cracks and blemishes, creating a smooth and even surface. For example, seal coating a driveway will help to reduce the effects of oil or gasoline spills, as well as help protect the asphalt from the sun’s ultraviolet rays.

Which option is better between seal coating vs repaving?

When it comes to repairing asphalt surfaces that have endured wear and tear, there are two primary options to consider: sealcoating and repaving. Sealcoating is an ideal repair solution for asphalt surfaces with light damage such as small surface cracks, as it involves the application of a protective coating to the entire asphalt surface. On the other hand, repaving is necessary when the damage is more severe, such as when potholes expose underlying asphalt layers or a significant portion of the asphalt surface is cracked. The cost and process involved in repaving also needs to be considered when making a decision. It is important to contact a professional asphalt specialist for a detailed evaluation of the needs. Freedom Asphalt is a renowned provider of asphalt pavement installation, repair, and maintenance in Dover, PA, and can advise you on the best option for your asphalt repair.

How to choose the best option between seal coating vs repaving?

Step 1: Determine the purpose of your asphalt surface

When determining the purpose of an asphalt surface, there are several factors to consider when comparing and contrasting the options of sealcoating and resurfacing. Sealcoating is a preventative and protective process, while resurfacing is a larger treatment when the asphalt paving requires a complete redo. Sealcoating will help protect the surface from wear and tear and extend the life of the pavement, while resurfacing will give the asphalt a brand new look and feel. When preparing for a resurfacing, the existing asphalt pavement must be cleaned and patched to ensure a successful result. When choosing between sealcoating and resurfacing, it is important to consider the condition of the pavement and the desired effect. Sealcoating is a great choice for maintaining asphalt in good condition, while resurfacing is a better option when the asphalt is severely deteriorated.

Step 2: Consider your needs and requirements

When deciding between seal coating and repaving, there are a number of factors to consider. Seal coating is a more economical option and requires less time for application. It is also a great way to extend the life of the existing pavement and protect it from damage caused by the elements. Repaving, on the other hand, is more expensive and requires more time to complete. It is also a more permanent solution, as it replaces the existing pavement with new asphalt. Both options also require proper maintenance and regular inspections to ensure they are functioning correctly. Depending on your budget and needs, one may be a better choice than the other.

Step 3: Check the references and credentials of the contractor

Step 1: Research potential contractors online. Use trusted websites like the Better Business Bureau and Yelp to look for customer reviews and ratings for the contractor. Check for the contractor’s credentials, such as the license number, insurance, and bonding.

Step 2: Ask for references. Before hiring the contractor, ask for references from past clients. Contact them to learn more about their experience with the contractor.

Step 3: Verify the contractor’s license and insurance. Verify that the contractor has a valid state license and is properly insured and bonded.

Step 4: Request a written quote. Get a written quote that outlines all services, materials, and costs associated with the seal coating or repaving job.

Step 5: Check the contractor’s portfolio. Request samples of the contractor’s work and review the portfolio. Make sure the contractor has experience in performing the job you need.

Step 6: Ask questions. Make sure you understand the contractor’s process and timeline for completing the job. Ask any questions you may have about the job, and make sure you feel comfortable with the contractor before signing a contract.

Step 4: Ask for a free estimate from Freedom Asphalt

Call Freedom Asphalt at 717-502-2222 to request a free estimate for any of their services.

Alternatively, fill out the online contact form and someone from the team will reach out to you soon.

Step 5: Choose between seal coating vs. repaving

When it comes to maintaining asphalt pavement, there are three main treatments to consider: sealcoating, resurfacing, and repaving. Sealcoating is a preventative and protective treatment that involves applying a liquid mixture that hardens in a thin layer over the asphalt, giving it a rich black finish while protecting it from corrosive chemicals, moisture, and UV light. It should be applied early on and then again every 1.5-3 years, depending on the wear and tear of the pavement. Resurfacing is essentially an emergency measure used when the pavement has started to show signs of failure, such as standing water when it rains or large, spreading cracks that are crumbling away. This involves cleaning, patching, and repairing the existing asphalt, adding a new asphalt layer, and adjusting the drainage features. Repaving is the most expensive and time consuming option and should only be used when the old asphalt is too damaged to be salvaged. This involves tearing out the old pavement, rebuilding and re-grading the foundations, and adding a brand new asphalt layer.

To choose between seal coating vs. repaving, consider the condition of your pavement. If the pavement shows signs of serious failure and cannot be resolved with patching or crack repair, a repaving may be the best solution. However, if the damage is more mild and can be fixed with patching and crack repair, sealcoating may be the more affordable and efficient option.

Step 6: Get used to using either option

If you’re looking to sealcoat or repave your driveway, it’s important to understand the difference between the two processes. Sealcoating involves applying a protective sealant to the existing asphalt surface, whereas repaving involves removing the old surface and replacing it with new asphalt. The first step in either process is to clean the existing surface by removing all debris, such as oil and dirt. After the cleaning is complete, the sealant can be applied for sealcoating or the old asphalt can be removed for repaving. Once the new asphalt is installed, it should be compacted and allowed to settle. Finally, the surface can be sealed for further protection. If you have any further questions about using either option for sealcoating or repaving, be sure to contact a professional paving contractor for assistance.

FAQs

What is the difference between seal coating and repaving?

The primary difference between seal coating and resurfacing is the purpose they serve. Seal coating is a preventative and protective process, meant to provide routine maintenance for wear and tear like cracks, potholes and damage from UV light. Resurfacing, on the other hand, is a bigger treatment that replaces the entire top layer of existing asphalt pavement with a brand new layer. However, it’s possible to do spot repairs for areas of the pavement or driveway that need to be replaced, or to mend cracks and potholes. It’s also possible to do a general resurfacing treatment, but this should only be done when the asphalt paving features large valleys or holes and huge areas of connected cracks that are decaying away. The resurfacing process must begin with cleaning, patching and mending of the old asphalt pavement, and then a fresh layer of asphalt must be applied, along with other applications for durability and adhesion. Seal coating, on the other hand, requires a liquid mixture to be spread and hardened in a thin layer over the asphalt, forming a layer of durable protection. This layer should be applied early on after the pavement is first set down, and then new layers of sealcoating should be applied every 1.5-3 years depending on the wear and tear the pavement is experiencing.

What is the best option for my asphalt surface?

When assessing the best option for your asphalt surface, it is important to consider the extent of the damage and the cost of the repair. Sealcoating is an ideal solution for light wear and tear damage such as small surface cracks, and is typically much more cost-effective than repaving. Resurfacing is a step up in terms of repair and cost and is a great middle ground if more extensive damage has occurred. Ultimately, the best solution is to call a reputable asphalt contractor to evaluate your pavement and recommend the most cost-effective solution for your particular situation.

How long does seal coating last?

Sealcoating typically lasts about three years if the asphalt pavement is in good condition, although older asphalt driveways may require annual sealcoating to maintain their protection and extend their service years. Regular sealcoating is recommended for all asphalt driveways at least six months old, and this process can significantly extend the lifespan of an asphalt driveway or parking lot by up to 15-20 years. The asphalt must be allowed to cure for at least 90 days before sealcoating can be applied, and the sealcoating should be reapplied every 18 to 36 months.

Is seal coating better than repaving?

Is seal coating better than repaving? This is a commonly asked question among owners of asphalt driveways and parking lots in Wisconsin, especially after the harsh winter season and the damage it has caused to asphalt surfaces. The answer to this question depends on the condition of the asphalt surface. For asphalt surfaces with light wear and tear damage such as small surface cracks, seal coating is an ideal repair option as it can help prevent further damage and is cost effective. However, if there are several spots of severe asphalt erosion, such as potholes that are deep enough to expose underlying layers of asphalt or leveling agent, or if a significant amount of the asphalt surface is cracked, then the more appropriate course of repair is to repave the surface. This process involves a more extensive and costly process of stripping existing asphalt, re-grading the surface, and pouring several layers of asphalt. Ultimately, seal coating is a more cost effective way to extend the life of recently poured asphalt surfaces, while repaving is a more comprehensive and long-term solution for asphalt surfaces that have sustained more significant damage.

What are the benefits of seal coating?

The benefits of seal coating include:

• Preventing damage from UV rays, rain, snow, and automotive fluids
• Extending the life of the pavement
• Improving curb appeal
• Sealing the surface and filling cracks to protect sublayers and foundation
• Enhancing the rich, deep color of new asphalt
• Reducing friction for a smoother driving or parking surface
• Blocking harmful UV rays
• Protecting against corrosive chemical spills
• Acting as a protective shield from environmental elements
• Delaying the need for asphalt resurfacing and replacement

What is the cost of seal coating compared to repaving?

The cost of sealcoating your driveway or parking lot can be significantly lower than repaving. Sealcoating can cost as little as .15 to .25 cents per square foot, while repaving can cost up to $1 to $3 per square foot. The cost of sealcoating depends on the size of the area, while repaving depends on the extent of the damage and the size of the area. Sealcoating is an ideal solution for areas with minor cracks and potholes, while repaving is necessary for areas with major damage such as large spider web cracks or eroded edges.

How do I know if my asphalt surface needs to be repaved or seal coated?

Knowing when to repave or sealcoat your asphalt surface depends on a few factors. To decide if your asphalt surface needs to be repaved or seal coated, you first need to examine the pavement. Look for large cracks in the asphalt that are wider than a quarter-inch and deeper than two inches. If more than 30% of the asphalt needs repairs, or if there is an unsteady foundation, then you should consider repaving the surface.

If the asphalt surface is not severely damaged, then you may be able to opt for sealcoating. Sealcoating is primarily used to extend the life of an asphalt surface that has only light wear and tear damage such as small surface cracks. To sealcoat, the small cracks are patched and then sealcoat is applied to the entire asphalt surface to provide protection from future damage.

If your driveway is 25 years or older, it typically requires repaving. In such cases, the existing asphalt must be stripped, the area re-graded, and followed by several courses of asphalt pouring.

Once you have determined the appropriate repair option for your asphalt, you can contact a professional asphalt contractor such as Freedom Asphalt. They can handle the job flawlessly and get your asphalt surface looking like new.

What is involved in the seal coating process?

The sealcoating process involves these simple steps:

• Clear the area of any debris.
• Close off the area.
• Prime oils and chemical spills.
• Apply a few coats of commercial-grade sealant.
• Allow the sealant to dry.
• Inspect the area and make sure it looks good.

Once the sealant has dried, it will create a protective layer over the asphalt and give it a deep, dark finish. The sealant will also fill in any cracks and holes in the pavement surface, which will help prevent water penetration and protect against UV light, corrosive chemicals, and oil leaks. It is recommended to have your asphalt seal coated every 2-5 years.

What damage can occur if seal coating is not done properly?

Without regular sealcoating, asphalt pavement can be damaged by UV light, corrosive chemicals, moisture, oil leaks, and seasonal cycles. Unsealed asphalt surfaces can quickly become brittle and lose their flexibility, leading to cracks in the pavement that can fill with water and worsen with each expanding and contracting cycle. Unprotected asphalt pavement can also fade to a dingy gray or brown color and can be subject to premature aging and extensive cracking, potholes, and other degradation. Additionally, sealcoating prevents oil and chemical spills from seeping into the sublayers and foundation, which can cause costly repairs or driveway replacement.

What type of sealer should be used for seal coating?

When it comes to seal coating, there are a few different types of sealers to choose from. Coal Tar Sealer is water-resistant and can protect your driveway from oil and gasoline spills, but it is not very environmentally friendly due to the volatile organic compound (VOC) emitted when applied. Asphalt Sealer is water-resistant but offers less protection against UV rays and other elements that can degrade asphalt. Acrylic Polymer Sealer is a synthetic sealer that provides the same protections as coal tar sealer but is often less cost-effective and produces less VOC. It is best to consult with a professional contractor to determine the best sealer for your specific needs.