By sealcoating your asphalt driveway, you will improve its appearance and increase how long it lasts. Asphalt is made from sand, bitumen, and stone, which can absorb liquids. By sealcoating your driveway, you prevent water damage and maintain its appearance for an extended period. Although your new asphalt driveway will be ready to use 30-90 days after asphalt installation, it’s best if you wait until then to seal coat it.
Generally, it is recommended that you seal your driveway within the first year. Protect your surfaces from wear, tear, and weather damage with this sealant; if you want to avoid a huge repair bill, asphalt sealing before winter is non-negotiable.
Benefits of Sealcoating a New Asphalt Pavement
Some benefits of having a sealcoated driveway are:
Protection from the UV radiation emitted by the sun
Asphalt is a petroleum-based mixture that can corrode from ultraviolet light and turn rigid. Regular seal coating will shield your asphalt from the sun’s UV light, which is the leading cause of discoloration and fading.
Prevention from water damage
Improper drainage on your asphalt driveway may result in water pooling on the surface. Asphalt is a material full of tiny holes. When it rains, water enters these gaps and causes the asphalt to swell and break. When water cannot drain from an asphalt paving surface, it will sit on the surface and damage it over time. By asphalt sealcoating your driveway, you create a protective barrier against water damage, which can penetrate and cause cracks and potholes.
Stains on surfaces can be avoided
Besides being an environmental hazard, oil leaks and gas spills can permanently damage asphalt surfaces. Cracks and potholes can form in your asphalt if oil or harmful chemicals enter the pavement. If you spill either of these hazardous substances on your driveway, call a professional asphalt contractor to clean it immediately. Regularly using oil stains will protect your asphalt from seeping and causing permanent damage. It ensures that the liquid is removed properly and won’t cause any damage to your property.
Improved aesthetic value and curb appeal
A blacktop driveway that is regularly sealcoated will look fresh and new all year long. It can significantly improve your home’s curb appeal and increase its resale value should you ever decide to sell.
Lower Maintenance Expenses
Sealcoating your asphalt driveway once every few years will help you avoid more costly repairs down the road. By preventing water damage and sealing cracks, you can prolong the lifespan of your asphalt driveway and save money in the long run.
Asphalt driveway longevity
By asphalt sealcoating your driveway, you can add years to its lifespan. Without the proper maintenance, asphalt will break down quicker and need to be replaced more frequently. Driveway sealing is key to maintaining its lifespan and preventing weather damage. Sealcoating your new driveway is an easy and affordable way to keep it looking its best.
The Ideal Time to Seal a New Asphalt Pavement
Most experts recommend waiting 30 to 90 days before sealcoating a new asphalt pavement. If you seal the asphalt too quickly, it can not bind properly and peel or chip away. The sealant will be able to adhere more efficiently when the driveway has had time to harden and cure.
Seal Coat Asphalt Surface: The Process
Sealcoating is a relatively easy procedure that amateurs or experts may perform. First, fill in any cracks or potholes as soon as they’re seen. Then clean the entire driveway with a cleaner specifically developed for asphalt driveways. Once the driveway is clean and dry, apply the sealer with a roller, brush, or sprayer.
Generally, two coats are recommended; apply the second coat adjacent to the first.
Although it is a job anyone can do, sealing your driveway correctly is essential. If you lack confidence in your abilities to do a good job or don’t have enough time, it may be wise to hire a professional.
Sealing Your Asphalt Driveway Can Prevent Future Damage
A new asphalt driveway should be sealed within the first year to protect against weather impacts and everyday wear and tear.
According to most experts, you should seal an old asphalt driveway every 2–3 years. However, if a driveway sees a lot of traffic, it can need sealing more often.
If you have any questions about sealing an asphalt driveway, contact BaraCo Paving, LLC. We’ll gladly assist with any inquiries and provide a free service quote.
BaraCo Paving, LLC has provided quality asphalt paving and seal coating services in Orlando, FL, for more than a decade, and we take pride in our workmanship. Contact us for all your asphalt paving needs!