Asphalt sealcoating is a form of preventative maintenance that preserves the integrity and appearance of asphalt surfaces while improving longevity. Sealers shield asphalt paving from several damaging factors. Sealcoating protects against water penetration to prevent cracking, potholes, foundational damage and other common issues. It also shields paving from the sun's harsh UV rays and leaking vehicle fluids, acting as a physical barrier to protect surfaces from oxidation. Asphalt sealcoating also improves the look of asphalt paving, restoring its dark color and finish. When done regularly, sealcoating can reduce the risk of damage and long-term maintenance costs.
There are many reasons to consider an asphalt driveway. First, it's a cost-effective choice for residential properties. Compared to alternatives like concrete, asphalt has lower upfront construction costs. Furthermore, it requires less curing time.
Another benefit is its lifespan and ease of maintenance. With proper care, a new asphalt driveway can last 20 to 30 years. Contractors can also perform preventative maintenance to maintain a driveway's structural integrity, safety and beauty. Should damage occur, contractors can easily repair many forms of damage through crack-filling, patching, resurfacing and more.
Asphalt paving and asphalt sealcoating are two distinct services. One refers to new construction, while the other helps support the longevity of the finished product.
Asphalt paving is the construction of new surfaces like parking lots, driveways and more using asphalt. Asphalt is a mix of aggregates, fillers and a black sticky binder called bitumen. To create smooth, long-lasting surfaces, contractors compact and roll asphalt before allowing it to cure.
Asphalt sealcoating is a preventative maintenance service that involves applying sealer to the entire asphalt surface. Once cured, sealcoating forms a protective barrier to protect asphalt from weathering, oxidation, leaking fluids from vehicles and regular wear.
Asphalt resurfacing is a transformative service that involves removing upper layers of pavement before replacing it with new material. With resurfacing, contractors reuse an existing asphalt paving foundation. Contractors use powerful equipment to pulverize asphalt pavement to a specified depth. After removing the debris, teams can apply a new asphalt overlay over the remaining surface to create a like-new appearance.
Resurfacing is a great way to refresh older, damaged paving. It's a viable choice for crack-prone surfaces older than ten years. For pavement to be a good candidate for resurfacing, it must have minimal foundation issues and surface damage covering no more than 30 percent of the total square footage. Contractors can assess paving to determine if resurfacing is a beneficial choice. If it is, this service can correct recurring issues and prolong the lifespan of asphalt paving.
Asphalt pavement can experience many forms of damage with varying severity. The most common issues are cracks and potholes. However, raveling, rutting, alligator cracking, unevenness and more can also occur. Severe damage like potholes requires immediate attention due to the safety risks they create. Failing to get timely repairs can lead to accidents, injuries and liability issues.
More minor damage like light cracking doesn't prompt repairs. However, getting professional repairs as soon as possible is vital to preventing the damage from spreading or worsening.