Posted on Feb 15, 2023

Asphalt is a durable and long-lasting material that is commonly used for paving driveways, parking lots, and other surfaces. However, over time, exposure to the elements and daily wear and tear can cause asphalt to deteriorate, leading to cracks, potholes, and other types of damage. To keep your asphalt in good condition and extend its lifespan, it's essential to provide regular maintenance and repairs .

One of the most effective ways to protect your asphalt is by sealcoating it. Sealcoating involves applying a protective layer of coating over the asphalt surface to shield it from damage caused by UV rays, water, and other environmental factors. In this blog post, we'll discuss how sealcoating can help extend the life of your asphalt and provide tips on how to maintain your sealcoated surface.

The Benefits of Sealcoating

Sealcoating offers several benefits for asphalt surfaces. Here are a few reasons why you should consider sealcoating your driveway or parking lot:

1. Protection from the Elements

Sealcoating provides a protective layer over your asphalt surface, helping to prevent damage caused by exposure to the elements. It helps to shield your surface from UV rays, water, and other environmental factors that can cause cracking and deterioration.

2. Extends the Life of Your Asphalt

By protecting your asphalt from damage, sealcoating can help extend the life of your surface. Sealcoating can help prevent cracking, potholes, and other types of damage that can shorten the lifespan of your asphalt.

3. Improves Appearance

Sealcoating can also improve the appearance of your asphalt surface by restoring its rich black color. Over time, asphalt surfaces can become faded and discolored, but sealcoating can help restore their original appearance.

4. Cost-Effective

Sealcoating is a cost-effective way to protect your asphalt surface. It is less expensive than having to repair or replace your asphalt, which can be a significant expense.

How Sealcoating Works

Sealcoating is a straightforward process that involves cleaning the surface, filling any cracks or potholes, and then applying a layer of coating to the surface. Here's a more detailed look at the process:

1. Cleaning the Surface

Before applying the sealcoat, the surface must be cleaned thoroughly. This involves removing any dirt, debris, or vegetation from the surface. A power washer is usually used to clean the surface.

2. Filling Cracks and Potholes

Any cracks or potholes in the surface must be filled before applying the sealcoat. This helps to ensure that the sealcoat will adhere properly to the surface.

3. Applying the Sealcoat

Once the surface is clean and any cracks or potholes are filled, the sealcoat can be applied. The sealcoat is applied using a brush, squeegee, or spray application. The sealcoat needs to dry for 24-48 hours before it can be used.

Maintaining Your Sealcoated Surface

Sealcoating is an effective way to protect your asphalt surface, but it is essential to maintain your sealcoated surface to keep it in good condition. Here are some tips on how to maintain your sealcoated surface:

1. Clean the Surface Regularly

Regular cleaning can help to remove dirt and debris from the surface, preventing it from accumulating and causing damage.

2. Avoid Heavy Vehicles

Heavy vehicles, such as trucks or buses, can cause damage to your asphalt surface, especially if it is freshly sealcoated. Try to avoid heavy vehicles on your surface for at least 24 hours after sealcoating.

3. Reseal Every 2-3 years

Sealcoating is not a permanent solution and will need to be reapplied every 2-3 years, depending on the condition of your surface and the amount of traffic it receives. Regular resealing can help to keep your asphalt surface in good condition and extend its lifespan.

4. Address Any Damage Promptly

If you notice any cracks or other damage to your sealcoated surface, it's essential to address it promptly. Ignoring damage can cause it to worsen, leading to more extensive repairs.

5. Hire a Professional

Sealcoating is a job best left to professionals. Hiring a professional asphalt contractor to apply the sealcoat can help ensure that the job is done correctly and that your surface is adequately protected.

In conclusion, sealcoating is an effective way to extend the life of your asphalt surface and protect it from damage caused by exposure to the elements. By providing regular maintenance and repairs, you can keep your sealcoated surface in good condition and avoid costly repairs or replacement. If you're interested in sealcoating your asphalt surface, contact Sheehy's Asphalt Repairs and Maintenance today at (877) 400-5535 or email us at [email protected]. Our team of experienced professionals can help you protect and maintain your asphalt surface, extending its lifespan and saving you money in the long run.