Sealcoating FAQs

Are you thinking of slathering on a layer of sealcoating? Sealcoating has a lot to offer – besides its infamously earthy fragrance. These sealcoating FAQs will give you a whiff of what sealcoating is all about, uncovering its benefits and how it helps you save on asphalt maintenance costs.

What Does Sealcoating Do?

Because sealcoating is only required occasionally, people often disregard its importance. Put quite simply, if you’d like to minimize asphalt maintenance and maximize your parking lot’s lifespan, our sealcoating services are the cheapest insurance policy you can buy. A fresh layer of sealcoating:

• Resists oxidation that leads to cracking
• Provides lasting protection against damaging sun, rain, extreme temperatures, and chemical exposure
• Blocks moisture seepage that can weaken and break down lower layers
• Helps your asphalt withstand mechanical abuse from traffic
• Restores your pavement to a rich, black, smooth surface
• Prevents premature pavement deterioration
• Minimizes asphalt repair needs

What is Sealcoating Made Of?

Sticky, smelly sealcoating, made of asphalt bitumen, is a naturally occurring oil byproduct. It serves as a liquid binder that holds asphalt mixtures together and gives pavement its deep, dark color. It must be heated (to 240° + F) prior to application. Synthetic tar options also exist, which don’t have to be heated before use.

How Long Does Sealcoating Last?

Sealcoating typically lasts 3-4 years – much longer than its ubiquitous scent. The newer and better the pavement’s condition, the longer it will last.

Do I Have to Repair Asphalt Cracks Before Applying Sealer?

While sealing will address minor surface cracks, you must repair larger cracks and potholes before applying sealcoating for proper adhesion. Cleaning the pavement’s surface of dirt and other loose materials is also essential.

How Long Can Routine Sealcoating Extend the Life of My Pavement?

Our paving contractors have seen regularly sealed parking lots last between 20-30 years.

How Long Does It Take Freshly Applied Sealcoating to Dry? (AKA: When Can I Start Using My Parking Lot Again?)

Typically, your parking lot will be able to take foot traffic 3-4 hours after sealcoating. Vehicular traffic should wait a bit longer – about 1-3 days. It is crucial to protect newly sealed asphalt from harsh automotive chemicals like oil and gas in the first few days. In about 30 days, sealed surfaces can handle extreme weather and more rigorous vehicle activities – so it’s best to wait on those parking lot burnouts as you head home from work. 🙂

Protect your pavement and maximize the return on your pavement investment with routine sealcoating services from American Asphalt. Contact us at 510-723-0280 to schedule pavement maintenance for your Hayward, Oakland, Pleasanton, Fairfield, or Vacaville business today.