FEATURE
equally important to preparation ,” stated Brent Kilbarger , president of Star Seal of Ohio , Columbus , Ohio . “ Prep work is important to adhesion and longevity , however the proper sealer mix , how it is applied and when it is applied is very important . The proper air and ground temp , coverage rate , proper spray equipment and proper amount of time to cure is all very important to making a great job last for years of service .”
Kilbarger described the best conditions as a precursor to starting the job : “ Make sure the weather will not be too hot , too cold or too wet for the three to five days during and around the time that the job is scheduled to be done . Making sure sprinkler systems are shut off , lawn service / treatment are put on hold , traffic is redirected ( both car and foot ) for the amount of time needed to perform the job .” The equipment needed for preparing a site for sealcoating can vary .
“ All asphalt surfaces are not the same , and different equipment can be needed for prepping different lots ,” Kilbarger said . “ Older asphalt with a deep profile may need a heavy rotary broom to clean out the pours of the surface . A newer asphalt surface may have a smother profile and only require a good blowing . If the surface has tree sap , salt residue or heavy pollen it may require power washing for proper adhesion .”
For most , removing vegetation from the edges of the asphalt surface and from the cracks can be accomplished via the use of a mechanical wire wheel .
Vacca said , “ Wheeled blowers are essential to removing loose debris . For driveways and small commercial jobs , 6-HP blowers are good , while 9-HP blowers are useful for medium to large jobs , and 13-HP and larger are necessary for the large jobs ( 10,000 square yards and up ).
“ For bigger jobs or for extremely dirty surfaces , mechanical wire brooms or sweepers may be necessary . Other typical equipment may include weed trimmers , herbicides , torches , and backpack blowers .”
There are downsides to projects where the pavement surface is ill-prepared .
“ The sealer can discolor , non-adhesion to the surface can occur , performance can be impaired , and longevity can be greatly shortened ,” reported Dubey . “ Before applying , the paved surface needs to be free from surface defects cracks , surface alligatoring , patching and untreated oils spots . Remember , asphalt sealcoatings are not repair products ; they are coatings to protect and preserve the paved surface .”
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