Sealcoating: How To Preserve Asphalt Surfaces

Have you ever started to notice your asphalt pavement fading into a gray color? That is what can happen if you do not sealcoat. Sealcoating is an important step in the pavement preservation process. This task in the process is necessary to adding on years to the life of your surfaces and can drastically improve the quality and condition of your asphalt pavement.

Seal coating is the process of adding a protective layer to your asphalt pavement. This added layer of asphalt bitumen helps to protect the surface from oils, water, and U.V. damage. By being a cost effective maintenance project, this can really help down the road.

There are several reasons for the cracks in your surfaces. One of these reasons is because of the sun. The sun’s ultraviolet rays accelerate oxidation, making the asphalt brittle. Think of when the asphalt was installed. First, it was a beautiful rich black color. Now, it is more of a gray color – that’s oxidation. The sun is “cooking” the oils out of the flexible asphalt mix, leaving it dry and brittle. Brittle asphalt can crack, allowing water to enter the paved surface. When water from snow or rain seeps through the asphalt or concrete, it can create pools of water underneath, which lead to further cracking. Sealing protects the surface from damaging elements like: car fluids such as oil, gas or antifreeze, rain, snow, ice, and UV rays.

Asphalt sealer acts as a “sunscreen” to keep the oils in the mix and slow down the damage caused by the sun. It is also a good way to restore the new black look of the original asphalt installation.

Sealcoating: How To Preserve Asphalt Surfaces

• If you do seal, apply after the new asphalt has cured for at least 6 to 12 months. 
• Sealer should be applied to the manufacture’s specifications – typically this will be during the summer months. 
• All cracks should be filled with asphaltic crack filler, prior to sealing 
• The asphalt surface should be free of vegetation and debris
• Potholes should be fixed
• For the best coverage, the material should be applied with a squeegee 
• Sand should be added to the sealer for slip resistance 
• Sealing should only be needed every 3 years 

Now that you have read about all the benefits of sealcoating, are you ready to preserve your pavement? The pavement preservation pros at Byrne & Jones Construction are ready to help! Give us a call at (314) 254-9766.