Sealcoating is a cost-effective way to resurface asphalt and protect it from further damage. It also helps prevent moisture from entering cracks and slows down pavement deterioration.
First, the surface needs to be cleaned of dirt or debris. This can be done with blowers or rotary brooms. Sprinklers should be turned off a day before the process starts, and cars should be moved away from the area for 24 hours afterward. Visit the Website to learn more.
Asphalt is a mixture of rock, stone and gravel held together with a binder that’s often petroleum-based. When the sun’s UV rays come into contact with asphalt, it begins to degrade and break down the aggregate. This process is known as oxidation. Sealcoating helps to slow this process down, extending the life of your asphalt surface.
To prevent the deterioration of your parking lot or roadway, it’s important to perform asphalt crack filling and sealcoating on a regular basis. While there is no solution that completely stops asphalt oxidation, sealcoating does help to significantly slow it down, prolonging the lifespan of your asphalt and saving you money in the long run.
The process of sealcoating involves applying a liquid coating to the asphalt surface. This coating will cover any cracks and holes, creating a smoother, cleaner asphalt surface. It also protects against oil, gas, and other chemicals that can damage the asphalt surface.
There are many different types of asphalt sealants, with each offering varying levels of performance. For example, coal tar is a petroleum-based product that offers superior durability. It’s not ideal for use on surfaces with heavy vehicular traffic, however. If you’re looking for a more cost-effective option, you can also opt for asphalt emulsion, which offers similar benefits to coal tar.
While the main goal of sealcoating is to protect asphalt from deterioration, it also makes it easier to clean and maintain your asphalt surface. Just like wax on a car, a seal coated surface resists spills and stains, making it easier to remove dirt and debris.
To ensure the best results, it’s important to work with a professional who uses state-of-the-art equipment for the application of the sealcoat. This includes sprayers that offer an even coat of protection without allowing the sealant to get on other nearby surfaces such as concrete walkways and buildings.
Prevents Water From Entering Cracks
The process of sealcoating is a preventative measure that closes cracks and protects asphalt pavement from moisture damage. The seal coat adds a layer of liquid that shields the surface from the sun’s damaging ultraviolet rays, rain and leaky fluids from vehicles. This protects the underlying structure of the paved surface and reduces long-term repair costs.
Sealcoating also prevents the evaporation of water from the paved surface. Without this evaporation, water has nowhere to go but down into the cracks and destroy the underlying foundation of the pavement. The seal coat keeps water from penetrating the pavement and keeps it puddle free thereby prolonging its lifespan.
Evaluating the current condition of your asphalt pavement is a major factor in the decision making process when considering implementing either crack sealing or sealcoating. Minor cracks and surface damage can be effectively addressed through the application of a sealcoat, while deeper cracking and structural issues require the more targeted approach of crack sealing.
When choosing between the two maintenance options, it is important to consider your budget and long-term maintenance goals. Both crack sealing and sealcoating offer cost-effective solutions for preserving your paved surfaces, but the timing of their implementation is crucial to their effectiveness.
The most effective time to implement a sealcoat is from spring through fall. The climate conditions have to be ideal for the coating to adhere properly, meaning it can’t be too hot or too cold, and there can’t be a chance of rain in the immediate future. It’s also important to keep in mind that the freshly coated surface will need 24 hours to dry, so cars should be kept off the driveway or parking lot until then.
Prevents Oil From Penetrating
Asphalt pavements are often exposed to oil and gas spills that can eat away at the surface. Seal coating prevents the penetration of the spilled chemicals into the asphalt, extending its life and beauty. It also protects the surface from oxidation and wear that can be caused by exposure to water and UV rays.
The type of tar used in the seal coat will determine how effective it is at protecting the asphalt surface. Coal tar is the most commonly used, and offers good protection. It is able to withstand some penetration of gasoline or oil, and it can also resist chemical leaks from equipment such as lawn mowers.
This tar is not as durable as other types, however, and it will require frequent reapplication. It is also less resistant to UV rays than other types of seal coat. In addition, this tar is known to cause health problems for fish and other wildlife that come into contact with it.
Many people choose coal tar sealcoats because they are cheaper than other types. Unfortunately, the environmental damage is significant. The refined coal tar that is used in these seal coats is known to increase the level of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) in streams and creek beds, which can have harmful effects on the environment.
Other sealcoats are petroleum-based and do not offer the same level of protection as coal tar. They are also not as resilient against UV rays, and they may be prone to flaking or blistering. They are still a good choice for some applications, such as parking lots. Some petroleum-based sealcoats contain additives that reduce power steering marks, speed drying time for additional coats of sealant, and suspend sand to provide slip resistance and uniform distribution on the pavement surface.
Prevents Fuel Spills
Asphalt and gasoline are very similar chemically, so if fuel spills onto a paved surface, it can damage or degrade the asphalt. Sealcoating creates a barrier that prevents fuel from binding with the asphalt, thereby extending its longevity and preventing costly repairs or replacement.
It’s crucial to have your pavement properly prepared before sealing it. This includes thoroughly cleaning the area, removing oil stains, and patching any holes or cracks. This step also helps to ensure that the sealcoat adheres well to the pavement and provides optimal protection.
A professional sealcoating company will have the equipment, experience, and knowledge to properly prepare a pavement for sealcoating. Additionally, they will know which type of sealcoat is best suited for your pavement’s environment and traffic conditions. Coal tar emulsion, for example, is known for its durability and resistance to fuel spills. This makes it a popular choice for pavement in areas that are prone to oil and gas spills.
Sealcoating also protects your paved surfaces from salt and other winter weather damage. Snow and ice melters are very harsh on asphalt, which can lead to deterioration over time if not properly protected. Adding a thick layer of sealcoat will make it more difficult for salt to penetrate and damage your pavement, which will save you money on repair costs.
Prevents Deterioration
Sealcoating is actually a type of resurfacing that adds an extra layer of protection to asphalt paved surfaces. It helps prevent deterioration, cracks and even potholes. It is a cost-effective way to extend the life of your driveway or parking lot. It is a bit more expensive than repaving your entire surface but it is far more affordable than constantly repairing or replacing damaged areas.
Commercial parking lots and roads are subject to constant wear and tear from vehicular traffic. Regular sealcoating can help to double the lifespan of your pavement. It protects the underlying material from UV damage, chemical spills and daily wear and tear. It also blocks water, preventing it from entering the cracks and causing further damage.
If you don’t sealcoat your parking lot on a regular basis, it will quickly deteriorate. The UV rays of the sun cause oxidation that makes your asphalt brittle and dry. It can also fade in color. Keeping your parking lot well-sealed with fresh sealcoating keeps the surface in excellent condition, which looks great and helps to enhance your property’s curb appeal.
A well-maintained parking lot gives a good first impression of your business to customers and tenants. It also reflects positively on your employees. Regular sealcoating, complemented by fresh pavement markings, will keep your commercial property looking new and clean, making a positive impression on everyone who enters your building or parking lot.
Before applying the sealant, workers need to repair any cracks and other breaks. The weather conditions need to be good too; it shouldn’t be too hot or cold and should not rain within 24 hours of the application. The workers must be properly trained and provided with adequate personal protective equipment (PPE) like disposable coveralls, safety glasses, and a face mask to protect themselves from any chemicals or harmful materials released during the process.