Faqs

The process involves evenly spraying an asphalt emulsion over an existing paved surface to form a surface layer. This layer helps prevent the paved surface from deteriorating by providing protection from inclement weather, UV rays and chemicals. Seal coat should not be used to fill cracks or holes in pavement.

A newly laid driveway or parking lot should be resealed the following year. If your paved surface is exposed to heavy traffic or harsh weather conditions, seal coat should be subsequently applied every other year. Every 3 to 4 years is sufficient for low traffic paved areas that are exposed to moderate weather conditions.

When seal coat is reapplied too often, asphalt will become slippery and lose traction.

Seal coating is used to maintain and protect existing asphalt by spraying a thin layer of asphalt emulsion to evenly coat the surface. Resurfacing involves adding an entirely new layer of asphalt to cover any worn or cracked areas.

Cracks or holes in your driveway or parking lot can lead to poor drainage. They hold water that may leak down into the foundation of the paved surface and cause low spots. Sealing cracks and filling pot holes in your paved surface will increase durability and improve drainage.

Motor oil acts like a solvent when it comes in contact with petroleum based asphalt. When asphalt is chemically compromised, it will soften, deteriorate and eventually break up. Seal coat application can protect asphalt against deteriorating elements like weather, heavy traffic or chemicals.

Climate: If your local climate is subject to cold winters, concrete has the tendency to crack and heave during freezing temperatures. Furthermore, ice-melting salt can easily corrode concrete and cause pitting. When seal coated, asphalt is more durable against freezing temperatures and salt. Alternately, concrete is the better option in hot climates. The tar in asphalt can soften significantly during high heat and may become tacky and deformed. Maintenance: Asphalt should be sealed every other year (when dealing with high traffic or harsh weather) and can last upwards of 30 years when properly maintained. Concrete can last upwards of 50 years without sealing, however, concrete easily stains, so sealing preserves the look and finish. Both concrete and asphalt can crack with age, but asphalt is less likely due to its flexibility. Asphalt cracks are also easier to repair and blend into the original paved surface. Asphalt can be resurfaced fairly inexpensively to reveal a new durable layer, while it is impossible to refinish concrete. Cost: Maintenance costs aside, asphalt is generally much cheaper to install than concrete.

Asphalt can be applied on top of concrete, but the asphalt may be subject to the heaving (especially in freezing temperatures) and cracking of its concrete base. These cracks will eventually show through the asphalt and the surface may become uneven.

It is significantly cheaper to repair damaged areas in your driveway than to wait until the entire driveway needs resurfacing. Spot repair may also improve the life of your asphalt driveway and prolong the need for complete resurfacing.

Asphalt crack repair is one of the most importance maintenance practices. Water can seep into cracks, which can compromise the asphalt and cause significant cracking or heaving in freezing temperatures. Similarly, foreign material can settle in cracks, causing additional damage to the pavement as it expands and contracts during temperature changes.