Asphalt sealcoating - how it works
What is Asphalt Sealcoating?
A resistant coating such as the sealcoat offers a protective layer when applied to the top of existing asphalt. It is one of the services offered by such companies as Houston Asphalt Paving that helps maintain the durability and aesthetic appeal of your asphalt. As sealcoat minimizes the amount of water and other liquids, like automotive oil, that can penetrate the asphalt, which will weaken it over time. A sealcoat also protects your asphalt from the elements such as the hot Houston sun and from the pressure caused by heavy vehicle traffic maintaining its durability and keeping it’s original deep black color.
How Often do I have to apply a new sealcoat?
The sealcoating should be done after the first year of placement of the asphalt. Then again, every 24 to 36 months will keep your asphalt protected and maintained. If the sealcoat is applied too often, it could begin to build up, crack and flake off so that it will be very unsightly. If you don't do it enough, then your asphalt will be exposed to the elements, also resulting in damage.
What is the difference between Crack Asphalt Sealing and Asphalt Sealcoating?
Asphalt sealcoating should be a part of normal preservation application that should be done to increase the durability and long lasting existence of your asphalt. Crack sealing is the process in which cracks are cleaned and filled with a rubberized epoxy. Crack sealing can assist in extending the life of your asphalt. It is a way of repair, and is unable to prevent further damage. I will explain more about why later. Sealcoating aims to prolong the health of the asphalt and prevents cracks or other damage from appearing. Crack sealing repairs damage once that is negatively affecting the asphalt.
Will asphalt sealcoating work to repair asphalt pavement?
Seal Coating works as a preventative, protective layer. The purpose of sealcoating is to prolong the life of your asphalt, not to fix the damage that has already occurred. Seal coating is not made to fix asphalt once damaged has already occurred. It will only prevent the damage from occurring. You may have heard that some sealcoats can ‘resurface’ your asphalt. However resurfacing is a separate process that cannot repair the under layer. Laying a new layer over the damage may appear to have improved the asphalt aesthetically, but the underlying damage is not repaired, and damage will soon reveal itself.
How Should I Prepare an Asphalt Pavement for Sealcoating?
When you work with a reputable paving company such as Cornerstone Paving and Construction Company, of Houston they will do most of the prep work for you. The best way to assist them in preparing the area is to block it off so there are no vehicles parked on the asphalt or foot traffic passing through. All repairs should be made before sealcoating takes place. This includes any Cracks or potholes that need to be filled in, leveling, or any other repairs. Once the repairs are completed and set, the asphalt resurfacing can start.
What is the Sealcoating Process?
Your contractor will clean and dry the asphalt making sure that it is completely dry because if there is any moisture left on the surface, the sealant won’t properly adhere. Once the asphalt has dried completely, the sealcoating will be applied. The process works best when it is applied in two thin layers rather than one thick layer. When hiring a contractor please be aware of this detail. The sealcoat will be applied with a sprayer, a squeegee, or possibly both depending on the condition of your asphalt. After the process is complete, you should prohibit any vehicles or foot traffic for 24-36 hours, since this will ensure proper curing and drying time. Once the sealcoat has dried properly, business can resume as normal, and you’ll have fresh, like new asphalt with an increased lifespan and durability.
Conclusion
Sealcoating is a very effective way to extend the life of your asphalt. It helps to protect against wear from the elements, vehicles traffic and adds to the appeal of your lot or drive. The process is simple when it is handled in a professional manner and in a timely fashion. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us today and ask how our asphalt services can benefit you.