Your driveway takes a beating every day, from weather to vehicle traffic and weight, and that damage adds up over time. Sealcoating is a simple and cost-effective way to extend the lifespan of your asphalt driveway and keep it looking sharp. Let’s dive into why asphalt sealcoating is a smart move for both your wallet and your property.
What is Sealcoating?
Sealcoating is a liquid mixture that typically includes asphalt, water, fine aggregate (a coarse mixture usually consisting of sand and crushed stone), and chemicals, which together form a protective barrier against the elements. Professional application is quick and painless. The surface is cleaned, the special sealant is mixed to the perfect consistency and coverage, and then is applied across the driveway surface with a dry and curing time of about 24-48 hours.
Benefits of Sealcoating
Sealcoating offers a quick and cost effective repair that improves the safety and longevity of your driveway. Here are the biggest benefits you can expect:
- Protects Against Weather and Water Damage
Water is a bitter enemy to asphalt surfaces. First, it wears down the surface, creating dips and leaking into small crevices, and then gradually expands its reach into the pavement with every rain. When that water freezes and thaws (a Colorado specialty), it expands and contracts, expanding the cracks and fissures in and underneath asphalt surfaces.
It may not seem like much as it’s happening, but that’s precisely the problem: before long, those small cracks will widen, some will become full-on potholes, and your driveway will look like it’s been through a war. Even if it’s still usable, you’re looking at full-on driveway replacement, which is far more expensive than sealcoating.
Sealcoating, by contrast, slows down this cycle by creating a barrier over your asphalt, preventing water from seeping in and doing damage. With that extra layer of protection, you’re avoiding expensive and frequent asphalt repair services down the road.
- Shields Against UV Rays and Oxidation
We love Colorado’s constant sunshine, but for your asphalt, it's a different story. Prolonged exposure to UV rays dries out the surface. This is called oxidation. The problem here is that a dry driveway means that it’s brittle due to a loss of oils and a loss of its original flexibility, and more likely to crack under vehicle loads and routine use. Over time, UV exposure also leads to unsightly fading and deterioration, i.e. that grey color you’ve probably gotten used to.
In addition to keeping out moisture, sealcoating’s protective layer acts like sunscreen for your driveway. In this way, you’re investing in a longer-lasting, better-looking surface that resists fading and stays strong for years to come. In fact, after sealcoating, your driveway will look like it’s brand new—the dark color and level surface gives a clean and well-maintained appearance. If you’re considering selling your home, sealcoating is a great way to boost curb appeal and impress potential buyers without paying the full price of a new driveway installation.
- Saves Money on Costly Repairs
Think of sealcoating as an investment in your driveway’s future. Sealcoating costs a fraction of what you’d pay for major repairs—typically between $0.15 to $0.25 per square foot, compared to a full replacement, which can run you $3 to $5 per square foot. Ignoring small cracks or surface damage can leave you with expensive potholes or other large-scale repairs. By staying on top of preventative maintenance, you save significant money over time and avoid the stress of dealing with a driveway that’s falling apart.
- Improves Safety and Reduces Liability
Cracks and potholes are more than just eyesores—they’re potential safety hazards. If someone trips and falls on your driveway, you could end up dealing with medical bills or even lawsuits. An uneven surface can also cause vehicle damage, from tire blowouts to suspension issues. So when you sealcoat your driveway, you're making it safer for everyone as well as preventing secondary, unforeseen expenses.
Professional Sealcoating Services
It’s generally recommended that you sealcoat your driveway once every two to three years. However, the Colorado elements, freeze-thaw cycles, and blazing sunshine are not going to go easy on your asphalt, so you might want to consider a sealcoat. Looking to work with the best? Submit a request with the pros at Asphalt Doctors today, and you’ll be taking in the sweet sight of a freshly sealcoated driveway in no time.
