As paving companies know all too well, more than 90% of all parking areas in the U.S. are surfaced with asphalt pavement. Although asphalt is quite durable, it’s not indestructible; between vehicular traffic and seasonal changes, your driveway might take quite a beating in just a few years’ time. If you want to avoid unnecessary driveway repairs and keep your parking area looking pristine, you’ll want to call up your paving company to arrange for your driveway to be sealed. But what exactly goes into this process? And how frequently should it be performed? We’ll answer some of those questions in today’s post.

What does sealcoating involve?

When paving companies seal a driveway, they’ll use an emulsion of asphalt, mineral fillers, water, and other ingredients that protects the surface from moisture, weather damage, oxidation, ultraviolet rays, and general wear and tear. It can be applied with a spray, a broom, or a squeegee. The end result is a smooth and even surface that extends the lifespan of your driveway, parking area, or roadway.

Why should I consider driveway sealing?

You might be surprised to learn just how damaging the elements can be to your driveway. If you choose not to deal your driveway, you’re leaving it totally unprotected against these elements. Without a protective layer, binder in the asphalt of your driveway will start to oxidize, making it much more vulnerable to fading, cracking, and other kinds of substantial damage. Ultimately, this will lead to much more frequent asphalt repairs and replacement. But if you seal your driveway, you’ll be able to block out harmful chemicals and harsh weather conditions. It’s truly an investment in your property you can’t afford to skip.

How often should I seal my driveway?

Many paving companies are asked how frequently a homeowner should seal their driveway. The answer really depends on your location, as homes located in areas that experience more extreme weather conditions will likely require more frequent driveway sealing. Generally speaking, however, you should aim to seal your driveway every two to five years. It’s best to start inspecting your driveway around the three- to four-year mark to assess whether it’s starting to fade or crack; if it is, it’s definitely time to re-seal.

What needs to be done prior to sealing?

If you’ve recently had a new driveway put in, you’ll need to wait anywhere from six months to a year before you seal it in order to ensure it has cured properly. Most paving companies will not seal your driveway within 24 hours of rainfall, as this can compromise the quality of the sealant. In addition, sealing should not be done in cold weather (i.e., below 50 degrees Fahrenheit). As long as it’s warm and sunny outside and you’ve waited the proper amount of time after a new installation, you’ll simply need to remove clutter, debris, and other obstructions from your driveway so that the crew can gain proper access to a clean surface.

If you want to protect your driveway from extreme weather and everyday use, sealcoating is an absolute must. To find out more about driveway sealing and our other services, please contact us today.