A good construction is only half done if it can not be maintained. Similarly, constructing an asphalt driveway or parking lot might not be very troublesome. But maintaining it seems a daunting task since it is under constant exposure to the elements of nature. The difficult task of maintaining asphalt driveways can be accomplished easily with seal coating. Let us understand the meaning, importance, types, process and benefits of seal coating.

Seal coating: its meaning, importance, process and benefits

For protecting and increasing the life of your asphalt driveway, seal coating is suggested. Let us first know what seal coating is.

Meaning of seal coating

Seal coating provides a layer of protection to the asphalt driveways or parking lots by blocking out elements like water, oils and UV damage. It also provides a deep black finish slip resistant surface which also beautifies the parking lot or driveway.

Seal coats are mostly acrylics or bituminous based products. They are in the liquid form. Acrylics or bituminous based products are mixed with water, silica sand, polymer additives and other proprietary fillers and solids. They can be applied with brush, spray or squeegee.

Importance of seal coating

When rock and/or stone and gravel is used along with a binder, it results in asphalt pavement. The binder used to hold the rock or the aggregate together is asphalt cement. It is created from the distillation process of certain crude oils. Maintaining this binder is essential to the life of the asphalt surface.

Constant exposure to the chemicals, UV rays and rain weakens the binder and starts deterioration of the asphalt. It continues till the surface turns brittle and starts developing cracks. Therefore, these require regular maintenance in the form of seal coating.

Regular seal coating programs help in doubling the life of the asphalt. It might help to save significant dollars overtime. Instead of paying thousands of dollars for new pavements, it is more prudent to spend regular dollars per square foot to maintain the asphalt pavement.

Types of seal coating

There are four major types of seal coats. You can choose appropriately by evaluating their pros and cons.

Coal tar emulsion seal coat

It is the oldest type of asphalt sealant which is now outdated. Its primary base is coal tar pitch. It is made by mixing 20-35% coal tar pitch, water and emulsifying agents.

It is least expensive, extremely durable, resistant to oil and fuel stain and easy to work with in difficult weather conditions also.

However, it is known to contain cancer causing carcinogens, is hazardous to plants, wildlife and water table and can also cause skin and eye irritation while application. Coal tar emulsion seal coat is also susceptible to cracking as asphalt expands and contracts. Moreover, it is also banned in many states and cities.

Asphalt emulsion seal coat

It is made by heating asphalt bitumen, water and emulsifying agents. This is the most common type of seal coat used.

It is excellent for sealing asphalt cracks. It is environmentally friendly, odorless and prevents the pavement from water penetrations, oxidation and UV rays.

However, it is challenging to apply asphalt emulsion sealers in cooler climates and temperatures. Though they require strict adherence to the application guidelines, they have a shorter product life.

Oil based seal coat

These are oil based sealants which penetrate the asphalt surface and create a new bond. They are like asphalt rejuvenators rather than asphalt sealers.

Oil based seal coats help to repair hairline cracks and pavement raveling. It provides protection up to 5-10 years.

They have a very long cure time of up to one week. Oil based seal coats are banned in certain states and cities as they are environmentally hazardous and do not provide protection against UV rays, chemicals or petroleum. Their application is also accompanied by strong odors which lasts up to weeks.

Acrylic seal coat

It is more liquid than other types of seal coats and uses acrylic emulsion. It comes in different types of colors. Therefore, acrylic seal coats are essentially used for jogging tracks, sports courts and other colored asphalt surfaces.

Acrylic seal coat is the most environmentally friendly type of seal coat. Its single application can last up to seven years.

However, they are expensive and less effective on heavily used asphalt surfaces.

Process of seal coating

A simple process of seal coating includes the following steps:

Install barricades and cones to protect vehicles and tenants.
Clean the pavements with brooms and high pressure blowers.
Treat the oil spots with special oil primers.
Apply the first layer of light coat like a primer.
Apply the second layer of thicker coat.
Hand squeegee edges to provide finished edges and extra sealer.
Walk through the area to ensure quality.
Remove the cones and barricades.

During the process of seal coating, following things should be carefully taken care of:

At least two coats should be applied.
Temperatures should be at least 50 degrees.
Avoid applying in case of prediction of rains.
Allow 24 hours to cure before the start of the traffic.

Benefits of seal coating

Seal coating offers many benefits for your asphalt. They are:

It increases the life of asphalt

Seal coating protects the asphalt pavement from penetrating water in the asphalt cracks, blocking UV rays that cause deterioration and protecting asphalt from chemicals like oil and gas from cars. Seal coating every three years increases the lifespan of the asphalt pavement by up to 10 years.

Provides a smooth and slip free surface

It in turn reduces the risk of accidents and ensures safety of drivers, cyclists and pedestrians.

Improves aesthetics

It gives a smooth, uniform, fresh and dark appearance to the asphalt pavement enhancing its aesthetics.

Ensures easy cleanup

A smooth and uncracked pavement is easier to clean than cracked and rough pavement.

Saves money

Seal coating is definitely a cheaper option than replacing the whole surface. Seal coating every three years increases the lifespan of the asphalt pavement by up to 10 years. It saves you money overtime.

As you can see there are many details to be taken care of while applying a seal coat. Therefore, it is better to consult a professional for the same. White’s custom paving provides the best seal coating services in Wilmington DE. You can get a free quote and look for the financing options available with them. Contact White’s custom paving today! Their fee will not be an expense but surely an investment.

Conclusion

Asphalt surfaces can be maintained properly with regular seal coating. There are many types of seal coats but by far asphalt emulsion seal coats are the most used type of seal coat. Through an easy process of seal coating, you can avail its multiple benefits. Seal coats provide a layer of protection to the asphalt driveways or parking lots by blocking out elements like water, oils and UV damage. Seal coats also increase the life of asphalt, provide a smooth and slip free surface, improve aesthetics, ensure easy cleanup and save money. Seal coating can be done as a DIY but it is better to outsource it to professionals like White’s custom paving, the best seal coating service provider in Wilmington DE.

Frequently asked questions

What material is used for seal coating?

How many layers of seal coat are effective?

At least two layers of seal coat should be applied for the required effectiveness.

When to apply a seal coat?

Early fall is an ideal time to seal coat the asphalt surface. The temperatures must be at least 50 degrees Fahrenheit and no prediction of heavy rain should be there for at least 24 hours.

How long does a seal coat take to dry?

It takes up to one to three days depending upon weather conditions and other factors.

How much seal coat do I need?

The total measurement of the area in square feet can be put in the seal coat and crack filler calculator. It will give you the exact amount of the seal coat required.

Know Everything About Seal Coating