Top 5 Benefits of Sealcoating Your Asphalt Pavement

Maintaining your asphalt pavement is the best and most cost-effective way to avoid expensive repairs. And one of the easiest ways to accomplish this and extend the life of your pavement is asphalt sealcoating. Sealcoating is an inexpensive and simple process that helps keep your pavement looking new and in excellent condition. Besides doubling the life of your asphalt, it also has other benefits.

What is Sealcoating?

Sealcoating is the application of a specially-formulated liquid coating to asphalt pavement. Typically made from petroleum products or refined tar, the liquid hardens to seal the pavement from sun damage, water penetration, and chemicals that can deteriorate asphalt surfaces over time. Sealcoating also reduces friction, which creates a smoother driving or parking surface.

Sealcoating helps prevent cracks and keeps the nice black color of fresh asphalt. Compared with other pavement maintenance options, like crack-sealing and asphalt overlays, sealcoating is the easiest, most affordable, and least disruptive step you can take to protect your pavement.

Let’s take a closer look at the benefits of sealcoating.

Top 5 Benefits of Sealcoating

1. Slows down oxidation.

Oxidation is the deterioration of the asphalt binder resulting from exposure to the air and the sun’s UV rays. It makes the pavement brittle and causes cracks to occur. While you can’t prevent oxidation, timely sealcoating slows it down.

Sealcoating adds a layer of protection on top of the asphalt, so it’s the sealer that takes the exposure to air and sun – not the asphalt itself. Regular sealcoating – generally every two to three years – will extend the life of your pavement.

2. Prevents water from entering cracks.

Sealcoating prevents water from entering any hairline cracks and damaging the underlying surface. The longer you can keep water out, the longer your pavement will last.

3. Protects your pavement from fuel spills.

Sealcoating protects your pavement from fuel leaks and spills. Since asphalt is petroleum-based, any petroleum-based leaks will soften and weaken your pavement. That quickly opens the door to more extensive damage.

4. Enhances flexibility.

Asphalt is considered a “flexible” surface, unlike concrete pavement, which is “rigid.” When vehicles drive over asphalt pavement, the surface bends slightly to accommodate the weight without cracking. As pavement ages, it becomes brittle and less flexible – exposing it to more significant damage. Regular sealcoating helps the pavement retain its flexibility.

5. Saves you time and money.

Asphalt pavement is an essential investment, so of course, you want to keep it in the best condition through routine maintenance. Regular sealcoating not only increases its curb appeal but also extends its life indefinitely – saving you from costly repairs down the road.

Does Your Asphalt Pavement Need Help?

When properly maintained, well-constructed asphalt pavement can last 20 to 30 years. And sealcoating is an essential part of that maintenance process. So, why not get ahead of any damage by scheduling residential or commercial sealcoating from the experienced contractors at Premium Asphalt Paving & Sealcoating? Contact us today to make an appointment for a FREE estimate.

Read More: 6 Asphalt Sealcoating Facts You Should Know