Sealcoating is a process that is used to protect and extend the life of asphalt driveways. This process involves using a petroleum-based sealant to form a protective barrier on the surface of the driveway, which prevents water, ice, salt, and other damaging elements from penetrating into the asphalt.
So what sealcoating does do to a driveway? Read more as we’ll get into the details of this matter in today’s article.
The Steps Involved In The Asphalt Sealcoating Process
Sealcoating an asphalt driveway is a great way to reduce wear and tear from the elements, as well as giving it an aesthetically pleasing look. The process of sealcoating involves several steps that need to be taken in order for the sealcoat to properly adhere to the driveway and ensure its longevity.
The first step is to make sure that the surface is free of dirt, dust, and debris. This will allow the sealcoat to properly adhere to the driveway. After this is done, a solvent-based solution should be applied to the entire driveway in order to clean it before any work can start.
Next, cracks or other damages should be filled with a specialized crack filler and smoothed out. Once the cracks have been filled, it’s time for the sealcoat to be applied. This is done using a special brush or roller in order to evenly spread the sealcoat across the driveway.
Finally, once the sealcoat has dried, usually within 24 hours of application, a second coat should be applied. This will help to ensure that your driveway is properly protected from the elements and provide it with a longer-lasting shine.
Tools Used In Sealcoating
When contractors are performing sealcoating on a driveway, there are several tools that they use in order to ensure that the job is done efficiently and correctly. The first tool used is a pressure washer, which will help clean the surface of the driveway by removing dirt, debris, and other types of contaminants. This will help create the best bond between the driveway and the sealant.
The next tool used is a squeegee, which helps spread out the sealant evenly over the surface of the driveway. This helps ensure that all areas are properly sealed, so there are no gaps or missed spots.
Finally, an asphalt roller is used to press down on the sealant, to ensure it has firmly adhered to the surface of the driveway. This will help create a seal that will protect the driveway from water damage, as well as wear and tear from traffic or other environmental factors.
The Types Of Sealants And Recommended Thickness
The recommended thickness of the sealant during sealcoating depends on a variety of factors, such as the age and condition of the driveway, the type and color of the sealant being used, and environmental conditions. Generally speaking, a good rule of thumb is to apply two coats of sealant at approximately 25 millimeters thick.
In some cases, the number of coats applied depends on the age and condition of the existing surface, as well as the type and color of the sealant being used. For example, if you are using an asphalt-based sealant, multiple coats will help protect against weathering and provide a longer-lasting finish. On the other hand, if you are using a solvent-based sealant, 2 coats should suffice.
The most common type of sealant used for driveways is an asphalt-based sealant. This type of sealant helps to prevent damage from water and ultraviolet radiation, as well as providing an attractive finish to the driveway. Asphalt-based sealants are often applied in two layers that are then sealed together with a third layer. The top coat is usually a clear coating that provides excellent protection from the elements and helps to enhance the appearance of the driveway.
Another type of sealant that is often used for driveways is an acrylic-based sealant. This type of sealant is usually applied in a single layer and provides protection from water, ultraviolet radiation, oil, and other liquids. Acrylic-based sealants are usually more aesthetically pleasing than asphalt-based sealants, as they provide a glossy finish that can be easily maintained.
What Happens To Your Driveway After Sealcoating?
First and foremost, sealcoating will help to preserve the life of your driveway by protecting it from the elements. Sealcoating forms a protective barrier against water, ice, salt, chemicals, oils, and other damaging substances that can wear away at asphalt driveways. This helps to minimize cracking, potholes, and other issues due to water damage, which can be expensive to repair.
Additionally, sealcoating your driveway will also make it look like new again and give you a beautiful black finish. The sealant forms a waterproofing layer that helps to keep out moisture, dirt, and other contaminants while giving the asphalt a glossy finish. This not only makes your driveway look great, but it also helps to protect it from fading and other forms of wear and tear.
In addition to these benefits, asphalt sealcoating can also help increase the lifespan of your driveway considerably. This process will extend the life of your asphalt by as much as 30%, depending on the weather conditions in your area. This means that you can expect your driveway to last a lot longer without having to worry about costly repairs or replacements.
Final Word
Overall, sealcoating your asphalt driveway is important to protect it from the weather and extend its life. It’s best to hire a contractor that specializes in sealcoating jobs, as they will have the experience and expertise to do the job right. They will also be able to recommend the right type of sealcoat for your driveway and climate.