EXPERT ADVICE
“The first thing contractors need when approaching the sealcoating season, is the change in temperature.”
stated Girish Dubey with STAR, Inc.,
Columbus, OH. “Make absolutely sure
that the materials you stored over the
winter months are still in good condition,
meaning that they meet all the original
quality standards supplied by your man-
ufacturer. Would it be a safe assumption
that you kept the material agitated in the
holding tanks on a regular basis? Still, just
prior to starting in the spring, agitate the
material in the holding tank or the rig
and submit samples to your supplier to
make sure they are still within the quality
control parameters. You may be advised
to add some water to adjust the solids or
add a pinch of biocide to take care of the
foul odor, if any. Let the manufacturer in-
struct.”
Generally, sealcoating contractors--large
or small--have similar approaches to the
marketplace.
“The first thing contractors need when
approaching the sealcoating season, is
the change in temperature,” said Ken
McBride with GemSeal Pavement Prod-
ucts, Charlotte, N.C. “The pavement or
ground temperature should be 50 degrees
F and rising. In the Northern states, they
need to be aware if any salt solutions for
de-icing have recently been applied. It
usually takes a couple of good rains to re-
move any residue.”
McBride continued: “The contactor
needs equipment to clean the pavement
free of dirt and debris with brooms, either
manual or power, blowers either push or
backpack and in some cases a pressure
washer. Once the surface is clean, then the
rest of the process can begin. Any cracks
need to be addressed by crack sealing.
The crack sealant can be either a pourable
cold-product applied with pour pots or
banders or it can be a hot-applied-sealant
where a melter is required either direct
fire or oil-jacketed type. The cracks need
to be clean and dry before applying seal-
ant. There is usually other small equipment
used for patching holes or cleaning oil spots
found in such places as in parking stalls.
“Once all the prep work is completed
then the pavement should be ready to seal
coat. The most popular sealers are coal-tar
based, petroleum based and asphalt emul-
sions, as well as acrylics. The application
equipment required can be something as
simple as a five-gallon pail with squeegees
or brushes to sealcoat application equip-
ment, that uses either air diaphragm or
hydraulic style pumps and spray wands,
as well as squeegee machines. Application
techniques and equipment vary depend-
ing on the contractor.”
Again, the key for a successful sealcoat-
ing season is preparation. Having the right
equipment, tools, and employees ready to
go will make the difference.
For More Information On This Advertiser Please Visit www.CallAPE.com/e-inquiry
1.800.210.5923
[31]
April 2020