If you’ve laid a new asphalt driveway then you should really consider a process called sealcoating in order to extend your driveways life span.
Essentially, sealcoating is the same as adding a layer of varnish to a wooden fence to protect it from damage caused by the elements.
Asphalt is a petroleum product containing naturally occurring oils that can react badly to unprotected and prolonged exposure to the sun and to all types of weather. When this occurs, the asphalt undergoes a process known as oxidation.
The asphalt will become grey and brittle, making it prone to cracking and further damage. Eventually you’ll have to replace your driveway altogether.
Sealcoating can dramatically extend the lifespan of your driveway however. If you are curious about sealcoating, then here are the answers to some frequently asked questions. On our Northern Virginia service page you can find more FAQ's regarding more residential work.
Will It Eliminate Oil Stains? No, sealcoating will not eliminate oils stains and, further, it should not be applied over the top of any pre-existing oil stains on your asphalt. Instead, remove any oil stains with an oil stain primer before the sealcoat is applied.
How Is Sealcoat Applied? Sealcoat is a liquid; therefore its application can come in one of two forms – either spraying or by hand with a squeegee type of device. Spraying is generally recognized to result in a more even distribution of the seal coat to the driveway surface. However for a smaller space, the application via squeegee may be quicker and more cost effective.
When Will My Driveway Be Usable Again? A key question for many homeowners considering sealcoating will be how long their drive will be out of action after application. The main factor here is sun exposure and general temperature. In hotter eras of the country, a sealcoated driveway can be safe to walk on within 24 hours of application. If at all possible, always try to apply sealcoating during the summer months.
How Do I Prepare My Driveway for Sealcoating? The most important consideration here is that the driveway must be as clean as possible prior to application of the sealcoating.
As we discussed above, all oil spots should be removed as much as possible as they can react badly with the sealcoating chemical and affect the application. Further to this, the driveway must be power washed and well swept. Any pre-existing cracks must be filled in advance of the application of seal coating.
Many companies which offer seal coating services will also prepare the driveway before they apply the sealcoat. Of course, always bear in mind that the more work the company has to do, the higher your bill is going to be.
Will It Damage My Lawn? As lawns board many driveways, this can be a concern for homeowners. Happily, the chemicals in sealcoating will do no long term damage to your grass if they should come into contact. If you are very concerned, then it is possible to use the squeegee application method on sections of driveway that are very close to your lawn.
Essentially, sealcoating is the same as adding a layer of varnish to a wooden fence to protect it from damage caused by the elements.
Asphalt is a petroleum product containing naturally occurring oils that can react badly to unprotected and prolonged exposure to the sun and to all types of weather. When this occurs, the asphalt undergoes a process known as oxidation.
The asphalt will become grey and brittle, making it prone to cracking and further damage. Eventually you’ll have to replace your driveway altogether.
Sealcoating can dramatically extend the lifespan of your driveway however. If you are curious about sealcoating, then here are the answers to some frequently asked questions. On our Northern Virginia service page you can find more FAQ's regarding more residential work.
Will It Eliminate Oil Stains? No, sealcoating will not eliminate oils stains and, further, it should not be applied over the top of any pre-existing oil stains on your asphalt. Instead, remove any oil stains with an oil stain primer before the sealcoat is applied.
How Is Sealcoat Applied? Sealcoat is a liquid; therefore its application can come in one of two forms – either spraying or by hand with a squeegee type of device. Spraying is generally recognized to result in a more even distribution of the seal coat to the driveway surface. However for a smaller space, the application via squeegee may be quicker and more cost effective.
When Will My Driveway Be Usable Again? A key question for many homeowners considering sealcoating will be how long their drive will be out of action after application. The main factor here is sun exposure and general temperature. In hotter eras of the country, a sealcoated driveway can be safe to walk on within 24 hours of application. If at all possible, always try to apply sealcoating during the summer months.
How Do I Prepare My Driveway for Sealcoating? The most important consideration here is that the driveway must be as clean as possible prior to application of the sealcoating.
As we discussed above, all oil spots should be removed as much as possible as they can react badly with the sealcoating chemical and affect the application. Further to this, the driveway must be power washed and well swept. Any pre-existing cracks must be filled in advance of the application of seal coating.
Many companies which offer seal coating services will also prepare the driveway before they apply the sealcoat. Of course, always bear in mind that the more work the company has to do, the higher your bill is going to be.
Will It Damage My Lawn? As lawns board many driveways, this can be a concern for homeowners. Happily, the chemicals in sealcoating will do no long term damage to your grass if they should come into contact. If you are very concerned, then it is possible to use the squeegee application method on sections of driveway that are very close to your lawn.