Your driveway or parking lot might look tough, but without a bit of routine maintenance, it's vulnerable to the elements. If you’ve recently had your driveway or parking lot paved or are looking for cost-effective ways to preserve its longevity, sealcoating is a solid option. Essentially, sealcoating acts like a shield for your asphalt, as a barrier to keep harmful UV rays from penetrating the surface so it can look and perform its best no matter what Colorado throws its way. At Asphalt Doctors, we’ve seen all the ways sealcoating protects pavement in Colorado, so here’s a breakdown of what it is and why you might consider it for your property.
What is Sealcoating?
Sealcoating acts like armor for your asphalt. It’s a protective layer applied to your driveway or parking lot to shield the surface from the elements and everyday wear and tear. On one hand it works like sunscreen, blocking harmful UV rays, and is designed to be a protective coating to maintain the top layer of asphalt integrity.
The chemistry of sealcoating is a bit complex, but the application process is fairly straightforward. First, we’ll clean the surface of dirt and debris. Then we apply the sealcoat (like painting the surface), which usually consists of materials like sand, water and asphalt emulsion. Once the coating is applied, it takes several hours to dry and form a strong, smooth, and long-lasting barrier that helps preserve the integrity of your asphalt.
However, this is no minor task you can DIY—in addition to choosing the right sealcoating products and using the proper tools, DIYers must properly apply the sealcoat or risk undermining its effectiveness. As with most things involving paving, sealcoating is best left to the professionals.
Benefits of Sealcoating
1. Sealcoating Extends Your Asphalt’s Lifespan
Sealcoating is a long-term investment in your asphalt. By sealing the pores, cracks, and holes in the surface, it keeps out moisture, dirt, and chemicals that would otherwise work to break down the surface over time. As a result, you’ll see fewer cracks, less surface damage, and a longer interval for replacement, meaning fewer dollars spent on maintenance over the life of your pavement.
2. Protects Against Environmental Damage
Your asphalt faces some serious environmental challenges, from the sun’s harsh UV rays to the freeze-thaw cycles in Colorado’s colder months. Sealcoating protects your surface from oxidation and is designed to keep the fines and asphalt binders protected from the elements.
3. Enhances Appearance
Let’s face it, an old, faded driveway or parking lot doesn’t exactly scream “curb appeal.” Sealcoating restores that deep, black sheen to your asphalt, giving it a fresh, like-new appearance. Not only does this increase the visual appeal of residential properties, but it also helps businesses maintain a professional image that will impress customers.
4. Improves Safety
At home or work, safety is a top priority, and sealcoating can help make sure your driveway or parking lot stays free of more extensive repairs when applied as suggested and in regular routine maintenance intervals.
How Often Should You Sealcoat?
Sealcoating is an ongoing process to keep your asphalt in top shape. Typically, you should sealcoat every 2-3 years to maintain that protective layer. However, commercial surfaces may need more frequent coating, especially those in areas with harsher winters or higher traffic volumes. For best results, it’s wise to have a professional assess your surface if you’re not sure so you can make the right call.
Colorado Sealcoating Pros
Sealcoating is a simple yet effective way to protect and enhance your asphalt, saving you money and time (and maybe even a lawsuit!) in the long run. If you own a home or business along Colorado’s Front Range, contact Asphalt Doctors for professional sealcoating services and all your other paving needs!