APE January 2026 | Page 16

FEATURE

Let’ s analyze the costs over a 20-year period for 1 square foot of pavement.

Conclusion of Analysis: Over a 20-year period, the sealcoated pavement scenario costs $ 16.25 / sq. ft, while the unsealcoated pavement costs $ 23.80 / sq. ft. This represents a significant saving of $ 7.55 / sq. ft( approximately 46.5 % cheaper) by implementing a regular sealcoating regimen. The primary driver of this saving is the deferral of expensive repaving for an additional 10 years.
In conclusion, sealcoatings are far more than just a cosmetic application. They are a critical component of a comprehensive pavement management strategy. By understanding their types, benefits, and the compelling financial advantages demonstrated through life cycle cost analysis, property owners and municipal planners can make informed decisions that lead to longer-lasting, more resilient, and ultimately more economical asphalt infrastructure. Ignoring this unsung hero beneath our feet is a costly oversight.
Nihal Pandrapragada is a Technical Manager and Research & Develoment Chemist with STAR SEAL, Inc.
ECONOMICS OF SEALCOATING
YEAR
MAINTENANCE PERFORMED
CTPE / SQ FT. UN-MAINTAINED
2025
BASE + 2” ASPHALT
$ 4.00
$ 4.00
STRIPING
$ 0.50
$ 0.50
2 SEALCOATS
$ 0.15
2026
1ST. YEAR MAINTENANCE COST
$
$ 0.25
2027
2ND. YEAR MAINTENANCE COST
$
$ 0.25
2028
3RD. YR. MAINTENANCE COST
$ 0.75
$ 0.75
+ 2 SEALCOATS
$ 0.20
$
2029
4TH. YEAR MAINTENANCE COST
$
$ 0.30
2030
5TH. YEAR MAINTENANCE COST
$
$ 0.30
2031
6TH. YEAR MAINTENANCE COST
$ 0.85
$ 1.00
+ 2 SEALCOATS
$ 0.30
2032
7TH. YEAR MAINTENANCE COST
$
$ 0.35
2033
8TH. YEAR MAINTENANCE COST
$
$ 0.35
2034
9TH. YEAR MAINTENANCE COST
$ 0.95
$ 0.35
+ 2 SEALCOATS
$ 0.40
$
2035
10TH. YEAR MAINTENANCE COST
$
$ 1.05
1.5 INCH OVERLAY
$
$ 3.00
2036
11TH. YEAR MAINTENANCE COST
$
$ 0.40
2037
12TH. YEAR MAINTENANCE COST
$ 1.05
$ 0.40
+ 2 SEALCOATS
$ 0.50
$
2038
13TH. YEAR MAINTENANCE COST
$
$ 1.15
2039
14TH. YEAR MAINTENANCE COST
$
$ 0.45
2040
15TH. YEAR MAINTENANCE COST
$ 1.15
$ 1.25
+ 2 SEALCOATS
$ 0.60
2041
16TH. YEAR MAINTENANCE COST
$ 0.50
2042
17TH. YEAR MAINTENANCE COST
$
$ 0.50
2043
18TH. YEAR MAINTENANCE COST
$
$ 1.30
+ 2 SEALCOATS
$ 0.70
2044
19TH. YEAR MAINTENANCE COST
$
$ 0.55
2045
20TH. YEAR MAINTENANCE COST
$
$$ 1.35
1.5 INCH OVERLAY
$ 3.50
$ 3.50
+ 2 SEALCOATS
$ 0.65
TOTAL INSTALLATION & MAINTENANCE COST
PER SQUARE FEET
$ 16.2
$ 23.80
AVERAGE PARKING LOT OF 10,000 SQ. FT
$ 162,500
$ 238,000
SAVINGS:
$ 75,500.00
For More Information On This Advertiser Please Visit www. CallAPE. com / e-inquiry [ 16 ] www. callape. com 1.800.210.5923