Benefits of Sealcoating
When asphalt driveways become extensively damaged, repairs can be difficult and pricey, so maintaining asphalt driveways is the best and most cost-effective way to avoid having to make large driveways repairs. One of the easiest ways to extend the life of your driveway is by sealcoating it. Sealcoating is an easy and inexpensive process that can keep your driveway in great condition. In fact, sealcoating doubles the life of your driveway. However, it’s not only a great preventative measure but has other benefits as well.
Sealcoating your driveway protects it from rain, snow, and water overflow. One of the largest factors that deteriorate asphalt driveways is water damage. When water seeps into cracks and pavement, it erodes the ground beneath your driveway. Asphalt sealcoating covers small cracks and prevents water from damaging your driveway.
Just like how UV rays can age your skin, they can also age and damage your driveway. The sun’s rays cause oxidation, which results in driveway deterioration. Sealcoating acts like a sunblock by preventing harmful UV rays from aging asphalt.
Gas, oil, and other substances can eat away at a driveway’s surface. Spilled gasoline can erode asphalt. Sealcoating acts as a protective barrier for your driveway. It’s more resistant to gasoline and other contaminates. It also fills small cracks, thus preventing chemicals from leaking beneath your driveway where they can do extensive damage.
Since sealcoat is a dark material, it becomes hot in the sun. This helps extend the life of the asphalt driveways. Because sealcoat becomes more pliant when it’s hot, it’s more flexible. This makes cracks in your driveway much less likely, as the sealcoat can withstand pressure from traffic and wear and tear.
Asphalt costs a lot of money, and the prices can rise higher depending on the costs of crude oil. On the other hand, sealcoating is much more affordable than replacing asphalt. If damage to your driveway isn’t extensive, then sealcoating could potentially save you thousands of dollars.
Not only is sealcoating affordable, but by smoothing out the surface of your driveway, it makes cleaning and maintenance easy. Seal coated driveways can be quickly swept with a broom. You can also wash them without fear of water seeping into cracks and deteriorating your driveway.
Your driveway is important for the overall appearance of your property. In fact, it’s one of the first things people see. Sealcoating can turn a haggard, worn-looking driveway into a smooth, clean-looking surface. Sealcoating naturally looks spotless and well-maintained compared to asphalt.
Seven Lakes Contracting & Asphalt, LLC recommends sealing a new asphalt driveway within 6 to 8 weeks of installation and again one year later.
Protect your investment and maintain your driveway by seal coating your asphalt every two to three years.
