Driveways, parking lots, and roads are often paved with asphalt because it is a durable, economical, and easy-to-lay material. Nevertheless, as with any other material, asphalt needs to be taken care of to guarantee its durability and effectiveness. Sealcoating is one of the most popular ways of preserving and extending the life of asphalt. But is sealcoating asphalt necessary? This article will discuss what sealcoating is, the advantages it offers, and whether sealcoating is a necessary step in taking care of your asphalt surfaces.
What is Sealcoating?
Sealcoating refers to a procedure of covering an asphalt surface with a protective layer of sealant. Usually, this sealant is comprised of asphalt emulsion, water, sand, and other additives to form a protective layer. The main reason of sealcoating is to keep the asphalt free of the ill effects of weather, traffic, and chemicals.
Sealcoating Components
Asphalt Emulsion: A liquid binder that assists in the adherence of the sealant to the asphalt.
Sand: This is added to give texture and to fill tiny cracks.
Additives: These may enhance the durability, flexibility, and UV ray- or moisture-resistance of the sealant.
The Benefits of Sealcoating
Although there are homeowners who might question the necessity of sealcoating, it has several important advantages that safeguard the asphalt and improve its looks and performance.
Protection from the Elements
Among the greatest advantages of sealcoating is that it prevents the harmful impacts of weather, particularly UV rays and water on asphalt.
UV Protection: The sun may oxidize asphalt, causing fading, brittleness, and cracking. Sealcoating assists in reflecting the UV rays and impedes the process of oxidation.
Water Protection: Rain, snow, and ice may penetrate into the asphalt and create cracks and potholes. Sealcoating serves as a seal, so water cannot affect the surface and inflict additional damage.
Enhanced Durability
Sealcoating provides a protective coating which enables asphalt to withstand the wear and tear that comes about because of traffic, heavy loads, and other physical stresses.
Non-Staining: Sealant is resistant to stains from oil, gasoline, and other chemicals that can cause permanent discoloration. The sealcoating process renders the surface non-porous, which eases the clean up of spills.
Stops Cracks: The smooth, elastic layer that sealcoating offers will fill in minor cracks and prevent the development of larger cracks.
Aesthetic Improvement
Parking lots and driveways that are made of asphalt may begin to appear faded and worn out. Sealcoating returns the asphalt to its dark rich appearance and gives the asphalt the look of being newly paved. This can go a long way in enhancing the curb appeal of your property.
Better Appearance: A properly maintained driveway or parking lot that has been sealcoated has a more attractive appearance.
Smooth Surface: Sealcoating evens out the surface of small imperfections, creating a smoother, more uniform surface.
How Often Should Sealcoating Be Applied?
Sealcoating frequency varies and will depend on several factors such as the climate, the traffic level, and the age of the asphalt. As a rule, sealcoating should be done once every 2 to 3 years to ensure the protective layer of asphalt is intact.
Factors Affecting Sealcoating Frequency
Climate: In areas where there are severe winters, and freeze-thaw cycles, asphalt is prone to cracking and degrading rapidly. Frequent sealcoating may be necessary in colder climates.
Traffic Volume: Areas or parking lots that have high traffic have greater wear and tear. These surfaces can be sealcoated more frequently than residential driveways.
Age of Asphalt: Asphalt surfaces that are old might need to be sealcoated more often to regain their protective features.
Is Sealcoating Asphalt Necessary?
Having discussed the advantages of sealcoating, the next question is; Is sealcoating really necessary?
For New Asphalt
With new asphalt pavement, sealcoating is not required at the time of paving but is strongly encouraged once the asphalt has been allowed to cure. Asphalt usually takes approximately 6 months and up to one year to completely cure and harden, and sealing it too early may disrupt the curing process. After the asphalt has cured completely, it can be sealcoated, which can offer the necessary protection and will prolong its life.
For Older Asphalt
For older asphalt surfaces, sealcoating becomes more important. The asphalt wears out with time as it is exposed to the elements and high traffic. The most common indicators that your asphalt must be taken care of are cracks, fading, and brittleness. Sealcoating will make the surface look new and preserve it against further deterioration. If you have several cracks or oxidation spots visible on your driveway or parking lot, sealcoating will help prevent further complications.
In High-Traffic Areas
Sealcoating is very useful if your asphalt surface is subjected to heavy traffic like a commercial parking lot or a busy driveway. Areas with a lot of traffic experience greater physical stress that leads to a faster breakdown of the asphalt. Sealcoating may provide an extra layer of protection, which will save money by preventing future repairs.
In Areas with Extreme Weather
Areas with adverse weather like heavy rain, snow, or scorching sun, will be helped by sealcoating. Sealcoating prevents the deteriorating effects of these conditions on the asphalt, including water infiltration, UV damage, and freeze-thaw cycles.
Can You Skip Sealcoating?
Although sealcoating is a good idea when it comes to maintaining asphalt, it is not always a must in all cases. If you have a new asphalt parking lot or driveway that is in good shape and is not subject to heavy traffic or harsh weather conditions, you can possibly postpone sealcoating a couple of years. Nevertheless, your asphalt will start to decay with time unless it is sealcoated.
By not sealcoating, you might notice cracks, discoloration, and other damage earlier, and repair will cost you a lot in the future.