Sealing a driveway is much more than just a pathway which leads from the street up to one’s doorstep. It is the first impression that a guest gets of your home and has the potential of being a cornerstone to your property. Like any other surfaces, driveways are also not immune to wear and tear due to exposure to weather elements.
One of the most common concerns of every homeowner is whether or not sealing the driveway is a worthy investment. This article focuses on pros and cons and various aspects that you should take into consideration when sealing your driveway.
Understanding Driveway Sealing
What is Driveway Sealing?
Sealing of driveway or sealing of asphalt is a process of applying a coat on the surface of the asphalt that acts as a protector. This sealant helps to prevent damage from water and ultraviolet rays that affect the surface of the pavement.
How Long Does It Last?
Driveway sealant has an estimated lifespan of 2 to 5 years, depending on the quality and environment in which they are used. Periodic check ups and recoating are required to retain the protective features.
Benefits of Sealing Your Driveway
Enhanced Durability
The first advantage of driveway seal coating is that it will help to extend its lifespan. The sealant provides a concrete barrier that diminishes cracks and any other signs of deterioration that are common for this type of surface, hence increasing the lifespan of the driveway by about 5 or more years.
Improved Appearance
A sealed driveway provides an improved appearance and can keep the same look for quite a long time as compared to an unsealed driveway. It further seals all pores and fills in minor surface irregularities, thus making the driveway uniform and even. It also strengthens the color of the asphalt, retaining the deep black color of the original pavement.
Protection from Debris
One of the benefits of sealing your driveway is that it provides protection from debris like dirt, leaves, and salt, preventing them from getting into the surface of the asphalt. This protection also lowers the chances of cracking and pot holes from being created.
Easier Cleaning
A sealed driveway can easily be cleaned since it has a smooth frosted finish which helps to make cleaning the surface more efficient and easier. Dirt, oil, and other substances that may have deposited on the surface can be washed off more easily.
Drawbacks of Sealing Your Driveway
Initial Cost
The cost of surface coating a driveway can vary depending on the size of the driveway, the quality of the sealant used, and the rate of the labor. It is among the most affordable solutions for home improvement.
Short-Term Downtime
To ensure your driveway has a proper set, you must to wait for 24 to 48 hours after sealing, and the area should not be driven on nor exposed to heavy rainfall. This small inconvenience might be a concern if there is a lack of adequate parking space in the area.
Potential for Over-Sealing
Sealing alone might not address pre-existing driveway problems like significant cracks or drainage concerns, as it primarily serves as a surface treatment. Sometimes, too much sealing can create a barrier that traps moisture underneath, leading to further damage.
Factors to Consider
Condition of Your Driveway
Before sealing, it is advisable to check on the condition of the driveway and whether it needs a new seal or not. A nice smooth surface, which has barely any signs of wear, means that sealing is a viable option for the given driveway. If there are large gaps or other structural problems, these must be addressed before attempting to seal. When there are major cracks or other forms of structural damage, these must be fixed before sealing.
Climate and Weather Conditions
The local climate can significantly influence sealing, often leading to a noticeable slowdown in the process. Sealing proves to be beneficial in areas with harsh weather conditions, such as intense sunlight, heavy rainfall, or temperature fluctuations that lead to freezing and thawing. This might explain their greater effectiveness in regions that experience only moderate cold.
Type of Driveway
Although sealing refers exclusively to asphalt parking lots, other options like concrete can also be sealed. Nevertheless, they are different, and the right type of sealant for your particular driveway surface must be used.
Maintenance Commitment
Coating your driveway is not an activity that can be done once and for all. For it to retain its shield characteristics, it must be resealed every few years.
Hiring a Professional
Hiring a professional with expertise and experience ensures that everything is handled correctly and efficiently. Experts possess a deep understanding of the entire process, starting from pre-treatments like surface cleaning to the actual application of the sealant, as well as managing any potential complications that may arise.