Asphalt pavement, in its simplest form, is composed of rock or stone and gravel mixed with a binder. This binder (also known as asphalt concrete) holds the aggregate, or rock, together. The extraction of certain oils is what creates the binder. To prevent asphalt surfaces from cracking, it is vital that the binder be maintained. Rain, U.V. Rain, ultraviolet rays, and chemicals will all degrade asphalt. This will make the asphalt brittle. To minimize the damaging effects of these elements, you should implement a maintenance plan that includes sealcoating. This will extend the life of your driveway and parking lot.

Sealcoating will protect your skin from the elements of oils, water, and UV radiation. damage. Sealcoating is also a great way to beautify your driveway, parking lot, or driveway by making sure it adheres to the manufacturers’ specifications. Asphalt pavement failure is caused by oxidation and water intrusion. The asphalt adhesive that holds pavement together is disintegrated by ultraviolet light. Any moisture allowed to get into cracks in pavement’s pavement will cause damage, including potholes and pavement crumbling. Additionally, moisture can penetrate the pores of pavement, causing further erosion along with freeze-thaw problems.

Sealcoats typically consist of acrylics and bituminous based products. The sealcoat is usually a liquid formulation of one or more of the above mentioned emulsions combined with water and silica sand.

These products may be applied by brush, spray, or with a squeegee. Regular sealcoating will extend the asphalt’s lifetime and save you money. It’s cheaper than spending thousands of dollars to get new asphalt. Instead, you can spend pennies per square foot to maintain it.

Follow these steps to ensure the highest level of protection and maximum performance when you apply a sealcoating agent. Apply at most two coats. Minimum temperatures should not be below 50 degrees and must rise for no less that 24 hours. Apply if the forecast is for temperatures below 50°F. Avoid applying if rain is expected within the 24 hour time frame. After the sealcoat has been applied, let the sealcoat cure for 24hrs before allowing traffic to return on the surface.

A sealcoating program every two to 3 years will prolong the life span of asphalt pavements at a minimal cost. Sealcoating will protect asphalt pavement against oxidation, weather damage, and beautify it if done correctly.