Asphalt sealcoating is the process of applying a protective layer of asphalt to pavement to extend its lifespan. This process can be performed on residential and commercial roads, driveways, and parking lots. Asphalt sealcoating can also help to improve the appearance of pavement by filling in cracks and smoothing out surface imperfections. However, this can only be achieved by ensuring that your sealcoating lasts its intended lifetime.
So, how does driveway sealcoating last?
Besides, the time you sealcoat, your driveway can affect its lifespan. Generally, sealcoating can last up to 3 years on driveways that are in good shape. On the other hand, older driveways need to be sealed every year.
Driveway sealcoating experts advise homeowners to schedule driveway sealcoating within 12 – 24 months after the driveway has been paved or replaced. This is essential since the sooner you seal your driveway, the more the asphalt cement and binder are present on the surface. And the more the asphalt cement there is on or near the surface, the sealer will strongly adhere to the surface.
Type of sealer used
There are two types of sealers that you can use on your driveway: coal tar and asphalt-based. Coal tar is the more popular type of sealer since it’s more durable and provides better protection against oil and gas spills and UV rays. However, it’s also more expensive than asphalt-based sealers.
On the other hand, asphalt-based sealers are less expensive but don’t last as long as coal tar sealers. They also don’t provide as much protection against oil and gas spills or UV rays.
Pavement surface
The condition of your pavement surface will directly impact the lifespan of your sealcoating. If there are cracks or other surface damage on your pavement, the sealer won’t be able to adhere to the surface properly. This will cause it to peel and flake off more quickly.
The Tampa experts from CSG Sealcoating say that it’s also important to note that driveways made of concrete will require a different type of sealer than those made of asphalt. Be sure to ask your sealcoating professional which type of sealer is best for your particular driveway material.
Weather conditions
Weather can also play a role in how long your sealcoating lasts. If you live in an area with extreme weather conditions, such as high heat or lots of snow and ice, your sealcoating may not last as long as it would in more moderate climates.
Additionally, if you have your driveway sealed during the winter, it’s important to ensure that there’s no rain or snow in the forecast for at least 24 hours after the sealer has been applied. Otherwise, the sealer won’t have enough time to cure properly and will be more susceptible to damage.
Traffic conditions
The amount of traffic your driveway gets can also affect its lifespan. If you have a lot of cars coming and going, the sealer will start to wear down more quickly. This is especially true if those cars are heavy, such as SUVs or trucks.
To help extend the life of your sealcoating, try to avoid driving on your driveway for at least 24 hours after the sealer has been applied. This will give it time to cure and dry properly.
Maintenance
Last but not least, the key to making your sealcoating last is proper maintenance. This means keeping an eye on cracks and repairing them as soon as possible. It also means sweeping or blowing away any dirt or debris that could damage the sealer.
Additionally, you should avoid using harsh chemicals or cleaners on your driveway, as they can break down the sealer and cause it to fail prematurely. If you must use a driveway cleaner, be sure to choose one specifically designed for use on asphalt driveways.
To get the most out of your sealcoating, follow these tips and schedule regular maintenance appointments with your sealcoating professional. With proper care, you can extend the lifespan of your sealcoating and keep your driveway looking its best for years to come. In addition to this, it’s important to observe driveway sealcoating good practices if you want it to last long.
These practices include:
Know When to Sealcoat
The best time to sealcoat your pavement is when the weather is warm and dry. This is usually between early spring and late fall. However, you should avoid sealcoating in extremely hot weather conditions since this can cause the sealer to evaporate too quickly, which will result in an uneven coat. Also, do not apply sealer on a pavement that’s completely wet since this can prevent the sealer from bonding properly with the surface.
Prepare the Surface
Before applying driveway sealer, it’s important to thoroughly clean the surface to remove any dirt, debris, or oil stains. You can do this by power washing the area or using a stiff-bristled brush. Once the surface is clean, allow it to dry before completely proceeding to the next step.
Fill in Cracks and Holes
It’s also important to fill in any cracks or holes on the surface before sealcoating. This will help prevent the sealer from sinking into these areas and becoming uneven. You can use either cold-pour crack filler or hot-pour crack filler.
Apply a Thin Coat
When applying driveway sealer, it’s important to make sure that you’re using a thin coat. You should avoid overfilling your squeegee or brush since this can lead to an uneven coat. Instead, work in small sections and apply an even layer of sealer.
Allow the Sealer to Dry
Once you’ve applied the sealer, it’s important to allow it to dry completely before using the pavement. This usually takes between 24 – 48 hours. However, if you live in a hot and humid climate, it’s best to wait for a longer period of time before using the pavement.
By following these tips, you can extend the lifespan of your driveway sealcoating and keep your pavement looking its best.
