There are a lot of reasons as to why sealing asphalt could be beneficial not only for the homeowner.
For one, cracks and dirt lessens the visual appeal of thedriveway.
In this post, we will weigh the benefits and pitfalls of sealing asphalt driveway.
Sealcoating is basically adding a layer of protection to driveways and pavements.
It also protects the surface from tearing and wearing due to high traffic activities such as driving and more.
Between the two, coal tar sealers are cheaper but require more labor when applied.
As such, it is the one used by professionals in sealcoating wider pavements.
Down the stretch, there is also now a choice between acrylic and fast drying asphalt sealers.
Acrylic asphalt sealers are more expensive, more environment friendly but not professional grade.
Fast dry sealers, as the name suggests, can dry in just an hour.
To reinforce these more, sealcoating can be beneficial.
Here is a list of the other pros of sealing asphalt driveway.
As such, here are some of the drawbacks of sealing asphalt driveway.
How to maintain an asphalt driveway
Maintaining your asphalt driveway is not as complicated as you think.
In the US, asphalt and blacktop are often used interchangeably but really, they are two different surfaces.
At the most basic end, asphalt is the material used for driveways, interstates, and highways.
Its mix is composed of mineral aggregates and petroleum binders.
These components are mixed in a machine and then compressed on the surface using a steamroller.
It also requires at least 300F of heat before the components could be integrated in the mix properly.
Blacktop is poured and evened.
After that, it is left to harden.
Is it necessary to seal an asphalt driveway?
How often should I seal my asphalt driveway?
It is recommended that asphalt driveways be cured with sealers one year after the asphalt driveway has been installed.
But if your asphalt driveway experiences high traffic volume, sealcoating it should be done annually.
Cost of sealcoating
Of course, budget is a prime concern.
For DIY asphalt sealcoating, the average cost is about 40-cents/sq.ft.
A 5-gallon sealant can cover more or less than 400 sq.ft.
When resorting to professional sealing, your computation should be $1.50 per sq.ft.
Related:Tar And Chip Driveway: Cost, Pros and Cons
Does sealing asphalt extend life?
When is the best time to sealcoat asphalt driveway?
According to contractors,the best time to seal asphalt driveway must be in between May to October.
Is it okay to use a roller in applying sealant for asphalt driveway?
Rollers are usually used in sealing concrete and masonry surfaces or when you are using an acrylic driveway sealant.
But when you are using an asphalt-based sealant, squeegee is still the recommended material to use.
At present, you’ve got the option to now also use sealant sprayers.
Do asphalt driveways need two coats of sealant?
To avoid missing cracks and small pores in the driveway, two coats of sealant is recommended.
In between the two coatings, an eight-hour curing time should be observed.
The preparation is tedious too, so that is another thing to consider.
How long does an asphalt driveway last?
However, asphalt as a material itself, is very prone to cracking.
Is driveway sealing worth it?
The answer to this depends on many things and is more than just a yes or no question.
Can I seal my asphalt driveway too much?
When asphalt driveway sealants are used unsparingly causes problems for the driveway in the long run.
What happens when you seal your asphalt driveway and it rains?
Rain is unwanted in this job because it will wash away the sealant.
As such, it can result in an uneven program or totally being washed away from the driveway.
At best, the sealant must have at least had 4-10 hours of curing before it becomes rain-resistant.
What should be done to the leftover sealants?
Sealants are considered as hazardous wastes.
This is just to make it safer for everybody especially that sealants still contain VOCs.
But it is not perfect like all else in nature, as it also has its own drawbacks.
If it is an affirmative nod to most of these considerations, then we say go for it.
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