If you do not seal your asphalt driveway, it will eventually become brittle and cracked due to the natural weathering process. Over time, UV rays from the sun will break down the oils in your asphalt and cause it to oxidize.
Additionally, if you live in an area where the climate experiences freeze and thaw cycles, the moisture will penetrate the porous asphalt surface, leading to a weakening and cracking of the material.
Furthermore, the lack of protection will cause dirt, grime, and debris like leaves to accumulate on the driveway, making it more difficult to clean and removing any traction from the surface. In the long run, not sealing your asphalt driveway can lead to costly repairs due to the accelerated wear and tear.
To ensure you get the most out of your asphalt driveway, regularly sealing it is the best way to go.
Is sealcoating worth the money?
Yes, sealcoating is worth the money, especially if you take into consideration the long term benefits that come with it. Sealcoating helps to protect asphalt surfaces from the damaging effects of the weather and oxidation, which can significantly reduce the amount of maintenance that you have to do in order to keep your asphalt looking new.
It also increases the life of your asphalt, helping to keep costs down in the long run. Sealcoating also adds a fresh look to the pavement, providing an attractive aesthetic that can help improve the appearance of your property.
Finally, sealcoating adds an extra layer of protection, helping to protect your asphalt from damage caused by oil and gas spills, which can result in the need for costly repairs.
How do I know if I need to seal my asphalt?
It is important to know if your asphalt driveway needs to be sealed in order to maintain its durability and lifespan. If your driveway is already sealed, you should inspect it annually for any signs of wear or damage.
One way to tell if your asphalt needs to be sealed is to observe for any signs of oxidation or graying. Oxidation occurs when the asphalt’s oils evaporate, making it brittle, dry, and more prone to cracks.
Graying is caused by the sun’s UV rays, which can cause the asphalt’s colors to fade and its surface to become brittle. If you notice either of these signs, it is a good indication that you need to reseal the asphalt.
You should also check your driveway for any surface cracks. Asphalt is naturally prone to cracking over time due to normal wear and tear and temperature fluctuations. Small cracks can usually be filled with asphalt crack filler, but larger cracks may need to be professionally repaired before your asphalt is resealed.
Finally, you should also check for signs of water damage, including small puddles of water, soft and spongy spots, and areas of cracked asphalt that have a squishy feel when you walk on it. Water can seep beneath the asphalt’s surface, creating damage that is difficult to repair.
Resealing your driveway can help prevent further water damage.
If you have inspected your asphalt for any of these signs and determine that it needs to be resealed, it is important to contact a professional asphalt maintenance company to ensure the job is done properly.
What are the pros and cons of sealing an asphalt driveway?
The pros of sealing an asphalt driveway include preventing the surface from becoming fragile due to sun exposure, water, and ice. It also prevents any cracks or potholes from forming in the asphalt, as well as preventing weeds and grass from sprouting in cracks.
Sealed asphalt also resists oil, gasoline, and other fluids, making it easy to clean up should any of those substances leak onto the driveway. Additionally, it helps restore the original black color to the asphalt, making it look new and attractive.
The cons of sealing an asphalt driveway include the cost of the sealer and the labor involved in applying it. Sealing an asphalt driveway can be expensive, depending on the size of the driveway and the type of sealer used.
Additionally, the sealer needs to be applied at regularly scheduled intervals, or it will start to wear away and lose its effectiveness, adding to the overall cost of maintenance. Finally, the sealer may create an unpleasant aroma, which can be tricky to control depending on the conditions.
How much does asphalt sealer cost?
The cost of asphalt sealer varies significantly, depending on the type of sealer being used, the extent of the area that needs to be covered and the contractor or company that you are using. Generally, a 5-gallon bucket of basic asphalt sealer (enough for approximately 400 square feet) will cost around $25-$30, while deeper penetrating and commercial grade asphalt sealers can cost up to $200 per bucket.
For larger areas, it is often more cost effective to purchase large drums of sealer, which can cost up to $500, depending on the quality and quantity. Additionally, professional asphalt sealing services tend to be quite costly, due to the labor and equipment costs involved.
Prices can range from $0.25 to $1.50 per square foot, depending on the size of the area, the quality of the material used, and the complexity of the job.
How long does driveway sealer last?
Driveway sealer typically lasts anywhere from 2 to 6 years depending on the specific product used and the condition of the driveway itself. Generally speaking, driveway sealer should be reapplied every 2 to 4 years depending on the severity of the weather conditions in your area.
If you live in a particularly harsh climate or have a driveway exposed to direct sunlight or trees, you may need to reapply sealant more frequently than every 4 years. In addition, applying a good quality driveway sealant will help extend the life of the sealer.
To maximize the lifespan of your driveway sealant, it is highly recommended to follow the manufacturer’s instructions, apply the sealant in a thin layer and to avoid overfilling the driveway. Once the sealant has been applied, it will need to be properly maintained, with necessary repairs and touch-ups performed when necessary.
Will rain hurt newly sealed driveway?
Yes, rain can hurt a newly sealed driveway. Water can cause the sealer to degrade over time, making it less effective at protecting the driveway from damage. Water can also cause the sealer to become slippery, creating a safety hazard.
Additionally, moisture can cause the sealer to be less effective at resisting UV damage, which can lead to cracking, fading, and other issues. It’s important to allow newly sealed driveways adequate time to cure before they are fully exposed to rain.
Generally, this waiting period takes a few days. If a driveway is exposed to rain too soon, it can lead to a number of problems.
Is driveway sealing worth it?
Whether or not driveway sealing is worth it really depends on your individual situation. It is generally a good idea to seal a driveway, as it can help to protect your asphalt from the elements, minimize cracking and keep it looking fresh.
It can be particularly beneficial in areas that experience extreme weather conditions – hot summers, cold winters, heavy rainfall, or salting for icy surfaces.
Ultimately, the decision to seal a driveway depends on your specific circumstances. Factors to consider include the age of your driveway, the amount of wear and tear it experiences from vehicles, what type of climate you live in, and the existing condition of your driveway.
Sealing your driveway may increase its longevity, so it can be worth it if you plan to be in the home for an extended period of time. Additionally, sealing your driveway can give it an instant aesthetic boost and make it look much more attractive.
If you are considering selling your home in the future, driveway sealing could be a valuable investment.
In any case, it’s best to get in touch with a professional asphalt contractor to evaluate the condition of your driveway and determine whether sealing is a good option.
How often do asphalt driveways need to be sealed?
Asphalt driveways should be resealed every few years to keep them maintained and looking their best. Depending on the current condition of the driveway, a homeowner may need to reseal every two to five years.
That said, there are exceptions depending on climate and other conditions. For example, extreme winter temperatures may mean that you should reseal asphalt annually. The best approach is to inspect the driveway each spring and judge whether the asphalt needs resealing.
The driveway should be resealed if you notice small cracks or the sealant is starting to dry or flake off. It is also worth resealing if the paint is fading or wearing off.
Is sealing an asphalt driveway necessary?
Sealing an asphalt driveway is not necessarily essential, but it can extend the life of the asphalt and reduce the amount of damage over time. Sealcoating an asphalt driveway every 3 to 4 years offers many benefits, such as:
– Protects against cracks and other damage, such as potholes, that can occur due to weather, ultraviolet rays, vehicle chemicals and oils, and traffic on the driveway.
– Helps retain the color of the asphalt and can help the driveway stand out.
– Makes the asphalt easier to keep clean as dirt and dust won’t penetrate it as easily.
– Forms a barrier against water that can seep in, causing the asphalt to expand or contract which can lead to surface damage or cracking.
– Reduces fading and helps keeps the driveway looking newer, longer.
– Can potentially increase the market value of a home.
– Reduces the amount of damage caused by snow, ice, and deicing salts.
Without sealcoating, an asphalt driveway will still be usable but should be planned for more frequent maintenance, repairs and will not last as long as it would with sealcoating. To get the most out of sealing an asphalt driveway, it is best to hire a professional rather than attempting to do it yourself.
In the United States, this professional would likely be a driveway pavers company certified to seal asphalt.
What is the time of year to seal your driveway?
The best time of year to seal your driveway is typically during the warm months of summer when temperatures are consistently above 50°F. If you seal in the middle of summer, you will ensure that the sealant has properly cured, and that the temperature is consistently warm enough to ensure that your driveway is properly sealed.
This will also help to ensure that moisture will not seep into the driveway and cause water damage. Additionally, it is best to seal your driveway when temperatures are expected to remain warm and consistent for a couple of days, as this will give the sealant enough time to cure properly and form a seal.
Does sealcoating fill cracks?
No, sealcoating does not fill cracks. Sealcoating merely seals the asphalt surface, which helps to protect and extend its life. It is designed to protect the asphalt pavement and prevent wear and tear caused by oxidation, weather, and traffic.
To properly repair a cracked asphalt surface and fill in the cracks, you will need to use a crack filler product that is specifically designed to fill in small holes and cracks and help prevent further damage from occurring.
Depending on the type and size of the crack, you may also need to use a patching material in conjunction with the crack filler. Once the edges of the crack have been ground out and all debris removed, the crack filler can be applied according to manufacturer’s instructions.
After it has dried completely, the sealcoat can then be applied to help protect the repaired surface from the elements.
Can I seal my driveway myself?
Yes, you can certainly seal your driveway yourself. However, it does require some preparation and knowledge of the process. First, you will need to remove any dirt, weeds, oil, and grease from the surface.
Use a pressure washer if necessary. Once the driveway is clean and dry, you will need to fill in any cracks with an asphalt crack filler. Applying the sealant is the last step. Use a squeegee or brush to apply a thin layer of asphalt sealant, making sure to cover the entire driveway.
Allow the sealant to dry before driving on it or applying a second layer. Proper tools, such as a long-handled squeegee, are highly recommended for best results. You will also need a respirator or mask to protect yourself from harmful fumes.
All in all, sealing your driveway yourself is possible with the right supplies, knowledge, and effort.
