Sealcoating is a protective coating that is applied to the surface of the asphalt. Ideally, it should initially be applied 3 - 12 months after the asphalt has been installed and re-applied every 2 - 3 years thereafter. Not only does it give the asphalt a new appearance, it also gives it a protective coating.



How Sealcoating Protects Your Asphalt

Oxidation: Almost immediately after installation, the asphalt surface begins to oxidize. Exposure to the sun, oxygen and other weather elements cause the surface to harden and become lighter in color. This is due to the breakdown of the oils in the asphalt. If left unsealed, the surface will eventually become brittle which could result in cracking.

Petroleum Spills: Gas, oil and other petroleum spills can penetrate the asphalt. This will break down and soften the asphalt. The coal tar emulsion in sealer does not dissolve in gas or oil, therefore, it makes a protective coating which can prevent the damage caused by these leaks or spills.

Fill Surface Voids: Because asphalt is a pliable substance, it may become pitted over time. Sealer is mixed with additives and aggregate (silica sand) and can aid in filling these surface voids. By adding a heavier aggregate mixture to the sealer, it will help minimize this rough appearance.

Enhance Appearance: Not only does sealcoating protect the surface of the asphalt, it will also return the surface to the black color it had when it was originally installed. It will also:
  • Give the driveway the appearance of new, fresh asphalt.
  • Aid in melting the snow and ice from the surface more quickly.
  • Add an aggregate to the wearing surface to assist in skid resistance.

Take A Look At Some Of Our Work

Our Sealcoating Procedures

Edging & Removal of Weeds: A power edger is used to remove any grass that may be growing over the sides of the asphalt. All weeds growing through the surface of the asphalt are removed.

Power Blowers: Are used to remove all dirt and debris from the surface.

Oil Spots: Oil Spots are primed using an acrylic compound. This compound is allowed to dry prior to sealing. This procedure minimizes the "bleeding" through of oil and grease spots.

Edges: Edges are squeegeed to prevent overspray from occuring. Special care is taken to squeegee the asphalt surface in areas where it connects to concrete, garage doors or decorative borders.

Spray: Spray application is the method of sealer application that is most often used. This provides for an even amount of aggregate to be spread to all areas and gives a more even, uniform appearance.

Curing: time is generally 8 - 10 hours, but may take longer in shaded areas or areas where sealer may have been applied thicker. Therefore, we recommend allowing a full 24 hours to cure before opening the area to traffic. This will guarantee that all areas have cured properly.

Brush: Application by brush is the prefered method of application when applying the coating on smaller areas such as residential driveways. This allows for a more detailed application.