should be followed to extend the durability and life of your asphalt.
While crack sealing can help extend the life of your asphalt, it’ s considered the first defense against further pavement deterioration. It’ s a method of repair rather than a preventative step.
Crack sealing repairs small cracks and issues when they first appear. Sealcoating attempts to prevent those cracks from appearing for a long time.
Will asphalt sealcoating fix my asphalt?
As a preventative, protective layer, the purpose of sealcoating as an asphalt service is to prolong the life of your asphalt, not to fix the damage that is already there. If you have damaged asphalt, like alligator cracks, low spots, uneven areas, or other more serious issues, sealcoating will not fix it.
Despite the fact that some sealcoats claim they can‘ resurface’ your asphalt, resurfacing is a different process altogether. laying an asphalt sealcoat over damaged asphalt will make it look good cosmetically, but the underlying issues will not be repaired, and damage will show through again quickly.
How should I prepare my asphalt for sealcoating?
When you work with a reputable paving company, they will do most of the prep work for you. The best way to help prepare is to block off the area which needs sealcoating so there are no vehicles parked on the asphalt or foot traffic wandering through.
Before sealcoating takes place, repairs should be done. This includes any cracks that need to be filled, potholes, leveling, and more. Once the repairs are performed and set, the asphalt resurfacing can take place.
Sealcoating will help protect your asphalt, and is an important step in maintaining your pavement.
What is the sealcoating process like?
Your contractor will clean the asphalt, making sure it’ s free from debris and water. Then, they’ ll ensure it’ s dry, because if there is any moisture left on the surface, the sealant won’ t properly adhere.
Once the asphalt is dry, the sealcoating can be applied. It’ s best to apply asphalt sealcoats in two thin layers rather than one thick layer. Bear this in mind when you speak to your contractor. Depending on the condition of your asphalt, the sealcoat will be applied with a sprayer, a squeegee, or a combination of the two methods.
After sealcoating is complete, you should prohibit any vehicles or foot traffic for 24-36 hours, as this will ensure proper curing and drying time. Once the sealcoat is properly dried, business can resume as normal, and you’ ll have fresh-looking asphalt with an increased lifespan and durability.
Conclusion
Sealcoating is an effective an affordable way to extend the life of your asphalt. It helps to protect against wear from vehicles, the weather, and adds to the aesthetic appeal of your lot. The process is simple and can be handled by professionals in a timely manner.
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