Sealcoating 101: Everything You Need to Know About Protecting Your Asphalt

Sealcoating 101: Everything You Need to Know About Protecting Your Asphalt

Seal Coating may be used on parking lots, streets, or other surfaces to increase durability through the tests of time and climate. It ensures these surfaces will likely look nice for years. Here is an overview of seal coating so you can make the best, well-informed decision for your upcoming seal coat project.

What is Seal Coating?

Sealcoating is a process of applying a protective layer to asphalt surfaces like driveways and parking lots. This coating protects the asphalt from damage by elements like UV rays and water. It also improves the appearance by restoring its dark color and filling in small cracks. Regular sealcoating can extend the life of asphalt surfaces and save money on repairs. It’s best to seal coat asphalt surfaces every 2-3 years to keep them strong and looking good.

Factors Considered When Selecting a Sealcoating Product

Different types of sealcoating have distinct characteristics that impact their appearance and durability, which means that carefully considering your options is an important step in getting exactly what you want. Here are some of the most important factors we consider when choosing the right type of sealcoating for your project!

Type of Sealcoating Material

Choosing the right type of seal coating material is an important step in ensuring that it will look and function as you want. If you are looking for a dark, colorful, or especially smooth surface, researching the types of seal coating materials you have to choose from and selecting one that is known for the specific characteristics you have in mind is a must.

Weather Conditions and Climate

Certain types of seal coating tend to hold up better than others when they experience extreme heat or cold, frequent flooding, salt and snowplow damage, and other weather-related issues. Considering your city’s typical climate can automatically eliminate options that are unlikely to work well in your area.

Surface Type and Condition

Some types of seal coating repair damaged surfaces by filling in cracks and adding a fresh new coat, while others only adhere to certain surfaces well.

Desired Longevity and Durability

Choosing the cheapest sealcoating is unlikely to be cost-effective over time because it will likely need to be redone every few years. Instead, finding a balance between high-quality seal coating built to last and something that fits your budget can help you get more years of nice-looking pavement for your money.

Environmental Impact and Safety Considerations

Some seal coating materials that were once used frequently, such as coal tar-based seal coating, are no longer as popular because they have since been linked to various environmental and health hazards.

Is Seal Coating Necessary?

The quick answer is no, but it is HIGHLY recommended. Seal coating is important for protecting asphalt surfaces from damage by UV rays, water, and other elements. It helps prevent cracks, potholes, and deterioration, prolonging the lifespan of the asphalt. Additionally, seal coating enhances the appearance of the surface, giving it a fresh and polished look. While not required for all asphalt surfaces, it is highly recommended for driveways, parking lots, and other high-traffic areas to ensure longevity and durability. When you choose not to seal coat, you run the risk of unsightly and dangerous cracks and costly repairs or replacements. Ultimately, seal coating is a worthwhile investment in maintaining asphalt surfaces’ integrity and aesthetic appeal.

Simplifying Your Sealcoating

At One Stop Asphalt, we know that understanding seal coating seal coating is an important step in getting the results you want. Our experienced team will consider the details of the specific project you have in mind and provide recommendations for seal coating that best fits. Contact us today to learn more about seal coating to start planning your project!

IMG Credit: F Armstrong Photography