Asphalt | Asphalt Sealing: Why It's Important and How to Do It Right?
Sealing your asphalt is vital to protect it from harsh weather and elements. It also makes it look nicer and last longer. Please keep reading to learn about asphalt sealing, why it is essential, and how to do it right.
What is asphalt sealing, and why is it important?
Asphalt is a widely used material in construction and landscaping. Its durable, flexible surface creates roads, driveways, walkways, and other hard surfaces. However, asphalt doesn’t last forever. Without protection, it can become brittle and disintegrate over time due to exposure to the elements. Asphalt sealing is one way of helping to extend the life of an asphalt surface. The sealant forms a protective barrier against water, ice, snow, ultraviolet rays, and other sources of wear and tear. Not only does this help to preserve the integrity of the surface for longer, but sealing also helps to enhance its appearance by giving it a glossy finish.
Regularly maintaining an asphalt surface with regular sealing can be an effective way of prolonging its life and keeping it looking its best for years to come. Therefore, sealing is integral to preserving any asphalt surface over time.
How to seal asphalt properly - the steps involved.
Sealing asphalt properly is a job that should not be taken lightly; done incorrectly, it can lead to expensive repairs or a complete re-surface. First and foremost, you’ll need to take extra care in evaluating the condition of the asphalt before sealing. Sealing may not fix the underlying issues if poorly maintained or structurally unsound. Once you’ve determined that the asphalt is ready for treatment, you’ll need to thoroughly clean it by sweeping away dirt and debris, followed by pressure-washing with a power washer. Following this step, ensure all oil spots are cleaned to prevent any issues with adhesion later. After your surface is clean and dry, use an applicator brush on the edges and corners, then proceed using an asphalt sealer brush or squeegee on large surface areas. Finally, after allowing enough curing time (which depends on your product’s instructions), check for any mistakes or excess product buildup, which can be easily handled via a wire brush or scraper tool. Sealing your asphalt properly takes effort, but if done correctly, you will have far fewer maintenance issues, ultimately saving time and money in the long run.
The benefits of sealing asphalt
The benefits of sealing asphalt are numerous. Sealing helps prevent oxidation and ultraviolet rays from deteriorating the surface of the asphalt and protecting it against salt, oil, and other chemicals. It can also help extend the life of the asphalt by keeping it looking clean and new for a more extended period, reducing maintenance costs in the long run. Additionally, sealing can protect underneath pavers from dislodging due to freeze/thaw cycles. Asphalt sealants are designed to penetrate deeply into the pores of asphalt aggregate, providing an additional layer of protection and durability that is not available with other methods.
Lastly, regular resealing reduces risks posed by standing water on flat or poorly-graded surfaces, which can lead to corrosion over time. In short, sealing asphalt provides significant benefits that help extend its lifespan and maintain its appearance while decreasing maintenance costs. Sealing should be carried out by a professional familiar with the process with access to approved sealant products and tools for best results. Following these guidelines will ensure a top-quality job that adds years to your asphalt surface’s usable life. All in all, there is no denying that regular sealing significantly extends pavement’s lifespan and keeps it looking beautiful for longer periods. For those reasons alone, there is an excellent reason to ensure you keep up with regular resealing to maximize your investment in asphalt surfaces regardless of their type or size!
Things to keep in mind when sealing asphalt
When properly sealing asphalt surfaces, there are a few essential considerations to keep in mind. First and foremost, the surface must be free of dirt, dust, oil, and lose asphalt before applying the seal coat. To ensure this condition is met, thorough cleaning and patching should occur first. Then, depending on how much traffic the surface will receive, you’ll need to determine if an additional top layer of crushed stone needs to be placed atop the asphalt before sealing. Next is choosing the right type of asphalt sealer that won’t break down or deteriorate in extreme weather conditions and is durable enough to withstand high traffic volumes. Lastly, proper application technique is critical when successfully sealing an asphalt surface to last longer and look better over time. Taking these steps during your next seal coating project can help ensure maximum protection and a high-quality finished product that will stand up against the test of time.
FAQs about asphalt sealing
Q: How often should asphalt sealing be done?
A: Asphalt sealing should be done every 3-5 years, depending on the condition of the surface. Sealing protects asphalt from oxidation and water damage, so it’s important to apply sealant regularly to maintain a strong, durable protective layer.
Q: How is asphalt sealing applied?
A: Asphalt sealing is typically applied using a sprayer or squeegee. A hot rubberized asphalt material is sprayed onto the surface, then worked into the asphalt with a squeegee and broom. Afterward, a sealant layer is applied to provide an additional protective layer.
Q: What are the benefits of asphalt sealing?
A: Sealing asphalt surfaces can provide many benefits, including reducing cracking and fading, increasing the lifespan of the asphalt surface, protecting against water damage and oxidation, and improving overall appearance. Furthermore, sealing can help to reduce future maintenance costs.
Q: What materials are used for asphalt sealing?
A: Asphalt sealant is typically made from emulsified asphalt, water, clay, and other additives. The exact composition depends on the type of sealant being used. Quality sealants are designed to protect the surface for several years without requiring reapplication.
Q: What should I do before applying asphalt sealant?
A: Before applying asphalt sealant, the surface should be thoroughly cleaned, and any existing cracks should be repaired. It is also important to allow ample drying time before applying a sealant, as moisture can prevent proper adhesion. Additionally, it’s best to avoid sealing during cold temperatures, as the sealant may not bind correctly.
Conclusion
Asphalt sealing is integral to maintaining your asphalt driveway or parking lot. It protects against weather damage, makes the surface look better, and can even extend the life of your asphalt. If you’re considering sealing your asphalt, follow the proper steps and consider the things we mentioned. And if you have any questions, Ashers Asphalt and Sealcoating in Kent, WA, is always happy to help. So give us a call or send us an email today!