Asphalt Sealcoating
Asphalt sealcoating offers a number of benefits to your property. In addition to protecting your asphalt from cracking and water damage, it also extends the life of your pavement. It can also make it look better and adds value to your property.
Cracks in your asphalt seal coating can cause serious problems. Often, small cracks allow water to seep through. If left untreated, cracks can become larger. The resulting holes can lead to potholes and damaged tires. These holes can also ruin the alignment of your vehicles. While you may want to wait until these cracks begin to show signs of damage, it is best to fix them before they become bigger. Sealing your pavement before they get any larger is the best way to avoid costly repairs later on.
Asphalt sealcoating can also prevent potholes and other damages. This is due to its non-porous nature. Typically, asphalt mixtures include sand-sized particles. When the particles wear away, it increases friction and decreases the smoothness of your driveway. During colder months, water can pool in these cracks, compromising your paving. Adding a layer of sealcoat will increase the traction of your pavement, keeping it smoother.
Benefits of Asphalt Sealcoating
Sealcoat can also protect your asphalt from UV rays. UV rays can damage the surface of asphalt, leading to premature aging. Moreover, the sun’s rays are known to fade fabrics and other materials. By sealing your asphalt, you can prevent UV rays from damaging your parking lot. Also, sealing your pavement can protect your asphalt from chemically corrosive compounds such as gasoline. Petrochemicals such as gasoline, diesel, and oil react with the asphalt binder, softening it and making it less durable.
Sealcoating can also improve the look of your parking lot. This is especially helpful if your asphalt is a dark color. A black coating on asphalt gives your lot a professional and polished appearance. Having an asphalt with a dark finish increases the value of your property.
Sealing your asphalt can also minimize the effects of freeze-thaw cycles. Water can freeze and expand in your cracks, causing your asphalt to crumble and deteriorate. The same process happens when the temperature drops. Frozen water thaws and makes the hole underneath your pavement worse.
Sealing your pavement will also reduce the need for ongoing asphalt maintenance. Instead of having to replace the entire layer of asphalt, you can apply a sealcoat over the top. After the application, the top layer of asphalt will have a fresh, new look. You can even have it applied on weekends, if you don’t have the time during the week.
Asphalt sealcoating provides an added layer of protection against oxidation. Often, oxidation causes graying in the asphalt’s color. It can be caused by exposure to air, sunlight, and chemicals. Using sealcoating can help restore the asphalt’s black color and keep it looking its best. Additionally, the material of the sealcoat reduces the depth of oil penetration.
The best thing to do is to use a professional to apply sealcoat. Many people attempt to do it on their own and end up with a less-than-satisfactory result. Professionals know how to apply the sealcoat properly, which can prevent leaks and damage to the asphalt.