How Important Is Sealcoating Asphalt?

man coating asphalt parking lot in shadow

Call Reliable for your asphalt sealcoating service today!

Sealcoating might seem like the most minimal maintenance treatment you can do for your commercial pavement. It might seem like you can do without it, and your parking lot or driveway will do just fine. Is this service really necessary? How important is sealcoating asphalt, really?

What Is Asphalt Sealcoating?

Asphalt sealcoating is a protective pavement treatment that involves applying a coating over it. The sealcoat is made of watered-down asphalt, sand, and other ingredients to make it a stable, protective film for the asphalt. The best time to sealcoat asphalt is between May and October, but this guideline can change depending on the climate. You only need to apply a sealcoat every 2-5 years, depending on how pale your pavement becomes.

What Does Sealcoating Asphalt Do?

Slows Oxidation

Asphalt sealcoating is black; it helps protect the asphalt underneath it from the sun’s UV rays. Ultraviolet light causes asphalt to break down very slowly as soon as it is installed. Of course, with proper maintenance, it can last for decades. This coating protects it so that damage happens even more slowly.

Prevents Water Damage

Asphalt is also porous, which means that water can easily gather inside its pores and cause those pores to become bigger. The sealcoat protects it against water damage as well, preventing the development of asphalt cracks and potholes.

Prevents Dirt Contamination and Stains

Parking lots and driveways are dirty. Oil, gasoline, spills, and dirt from many shoes will cause the pavement to get dirty and stained. While it may be impossible and unnecessary to keep the blacktop extra clean, it is possible to protect the asphalt itself from these contaminants with a sealer.

Boosts Curb Appeal

A dark, smooth blacktop looks great and feels smooth under the tires. It makes any home or business look more put together, like it is taking care of itself. 

Lengthens Asphalt Lifespan

Overall, the more protection against water, dirt, and UV light you can give your pavement, the longer its lifespan will be. This maintenance will also save you on repair costs.

Not a Replacement for Pavement Repairs

Keep in mind that sealcoating is not a replacement for pavement repairs, such as asphalt crack filling and pothole repairs. Those services need more than just a sealant.

How Important Is Sealcoating Asphalt for Businesses?

For businesses, the first impression is crucial to impressing and attracting customers, and that first impression might start at the parking lot. Keep your business efficient and looking great by sealcoating your asphalt regularly!

ABOUT RELIABLE CONTRACTING

Reliable is dedicated to delivering quality products, displaying professionalism within the firm, seeking new opportunities for expansion and profitability, and providing an environment for individual success. If you have a commercial or residential construction project that you need taken care of, please contact Anne Arundel County’s largest site-work contractor today by calling 410-987-0313 or visiting our website. You can also follow Reliable Contracting on Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, and Twitter!

Reliable Contracting Company serves the following and surrounding counties: Annapolis, Queen Anne’s, Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Baltimore City, Calvert, Caroline, Charles, Howard, Prince George, St. Mary’s, Talbot, and Washington D.C.

This entry was posted on Tuesday, November 7th, 2023 at 2:55 pm. Both comments and pings are currently closed.