Key Takeaways:
- Seal coating can protect against UV rays, weather damage, water penetration, and freeze/thaw cycles.
- Seal coating can enhance curb appeal, add traction for improved safety, reduce long-term repair and replacement costs, and is easy to maintain.
- Proper preparation is critical for seal coating, including cleaning and repairing surfaces, removing debris and grease spots, filling cracks and holes, giving it enough time to dry, and choosing the suitable sealer.
- Professional seal coating services have advantages such as expertise, time savings, cost savings, quality guaranteed, comprehensive benefits, and proper equipment.
- DIY seal coating can be time-consuming, require expensive tools and products, and not produce satisfactory results.
- Seal coating can extend the lifespan of an asphalt surface and improve its appearance.
- Regular seal coating can help prevent costly repairs and replacements in the future.
Did you know that the average lifespan of an untreated asphalt driveway is below 15 years? That’s a short time for such a crucial investment. However, there’s a simple and affordable way to extend the life of your driveway and improve its appearance: asphalt seal coating.
It involves applying a protective layer to the surface of the asphalt, which can prevent damage from weather, UV rays, and water.
Atkins Paving will explore seven compelling reasons every property owner should consider asphalt seal coating. From saving money to enhancing safety, we’ll show you the benefits of this cost-effective solution. In addition, we’ll also look at some tips on preparing for the process and why you should consider professional seal coating over DIY.
Reasons to Consider Asphalt Seal Coating
Protects Against UV Rays and Weather Damage
Sealing asphalt driveways and parking lots can help protect them against sun damage, snow, rain, and more. By applying a protective coating to the surface of your asphalt, you can prevent cracks from developing and keep your pavement looking fresh for years.
Prevents water penetration and freeze/thaw cycles
The seal coat creates a waterproof barrier that helps to prevent water penetration. This protection is critical in areas where the pavement may be subjected to frequent freeze/thaw cycles. As it keeps water at bay, it improves the asphalt lifespan.
Enhances Curb Appeal and Longevity
Applying an asphalt seal coat can enhance the appearance of your property, making it look more appealing and inviting to customers or guests. It also boosts the lifespan of your asphalt surfaces, helping you save money on costly repairs.
Adds Traction for Improved Safety
Seal coating your asphalt surface also adds traction, which can help improve safety for pedestrians and motorists alike. The added traction is essential for reducing slipping hazards, particularly when driving on wet roads.
Reduces Long-Term Repair and Replacement Cost
Regular seal coating of asphalt driveways and parking lots can help reduce the need for costly repairs and replacements in the future. It is because seal coats improve the durability of your asphalt surfaces, making them last longer before they deteriorate or become damaged.
Easy to Maintain
Once applied correctly, the asphalt seal coat requires minimal maintenance, just occasional sweeping or power washing if necessary. It makes it easy to avoid common problems such as potholes, cracks, crumbles, and other damage caused by weathering.
Enhances Color & Refreshes Appearance
The added gloss of a seal coat also creates a vibrant color for your driveway or parking lot, helping it look brand new again! Additionally, this helps to improve the overall aesthetics of your property, making it look more attractive.
Tips to Prepare for An Asphalt Seal Coat
Clean & Repair Surfaces
Before applying a seal coat, cleaning and repairing any cracks or crevices on the surface is essential. It will help ensure the highest quality finish when complete.
Remove Debris & Grease Spots
It’s also important to sweep away any debris or grease spots before beginning the application process – these can cause imperfections in the finish of your seal coat.
Fill Cracks & Holes
Any cracks or holes should be filled in with asphalt patch material before seal coating begins. It will help the new seal coat adhere to the pavement more evenly.
Give it Time to Dry
Allow the pavement plenty of time to dry before applying the seal coat. It is usually done on a hot day and ensures better application. Also, ensure the area is free from traffic during the seal coating.
Choose the Right Sealer
Choosing the suitable sealer for your asphalt surface is essential, as it will determine how durable and protective it is against damage from weather, oil stains, and more.
Apply Uniformly & Thoroughly
Apply the seal coat with a squeegee in an even layer over the entire area so no spot looks different. Make sure to do multiple thin coats rather than one thick coat. It will ensure better protection and longer-lasting results.
Why Consider Professional Seal Coating Over DIY?
When considering whether to pursue professional seal coating services, there are several advantages:
Expertise
Professionals have experience and knowledge of what products work best for different surfaces and climates, so your job will be done right the first time.
Time Savings
DIY jobs can take days or weeks to complete, while professionals can do the job in a fraction of this time.
Cost Savings
Many projects require specific tools and products that may be expensive. Professional companies often have these items on hand, saving additional expenses.
Quality Guaranteed
Professionals will guarantee their work and provide a warranty, so if something goes wrong, they’ll come back to repair it regardless of what caused it, something DIYers usually aren’t able to do for themselves.
Comprehensive Services
Seal coating isn’t just about applying the product; it also involves cleaning and prepping the surface, filling cracks, and other minor repairs. Professional seal coating companies can offer comprehensive services you won’t be able to do alone.
Time Saved
Completing a DIY seal coating job can take considerable time, as with any project. However, professionals usually have the experience and expertise to do the job quickly and correctly in less time than an amateur would require.
Related: Factors To Consider When Booking Your Asphalt Seal Coating Services
Final Thoughts
Asphalt seal coating is essential to any driveway or parking lot maintenance. There are many compelling reasons to hire a professional, from cost-effectiveness and longer-lasting results to comprehensive services and time saved. Whether you’re looking to protect your investment or ensure your property looks its best, professional seal coating is the way to go.
Protect Your Asphalt Surfaces! Contact Atkins Paving in Charlotte, NC
Trust the experts at Atkins Paving to provide top-quality seal coating and maintenance services for your residential or commercial property pavement. With years of experience and a commitment to customer satisfaction, we’ll help you keep your asphalt surfaces in top condition for years. Contact us today and get a free quote.
