Are you searching for an approach to prolong the life of your driveway or parking lot? Asphalt sealcoating may be just the solution you're looking for! Asphalt sealcoating provides a protective layer on top of existing asphalt, helping to prevent damage from UV rays, water exposure, chemicals, oil spills, and more. Asphalt sealing is an excellent solution that can help protect and preserve your pavement for years. In this post, we'll be discussing what exactly asphalt sealcoating is, how to prepare for it, and the process of applying it.

What is Asphalt Sealcoating?

Asphalt sealcoating is a protective coating applied to asphalt-based surfaces such as driveways, parking lots, and roads. It helps protect the surface from wear and tear caused by traffic, weathering, oxidation, water penetration, and other environmental factors. Sealcoating also improves the appearance of asphalt surfaces by restoring color and creating a smooth finish.

Asphalt sealcoating is a technique of applying an emulsion or slurry coating to existing asphalt surfaces to form a protective barrier from moisture and UV radiation. Applying a protective coating to asphalt surfaces can help prevent damage from extreme weather and prolonged use.

Asphalt sealing boasts a plethora of advantages, including extending the lifespan of pavement, improving safety with better traction, restoring color for enhanced aesthetics, cutting down on maintenance costs due to fewer repairs needed, and providing protection against oxidation which can cause cracks in the pavement as well as preventing water penetration that leads to potholes. Furthermore, sealing your asphalt regularly reduces liability risks associated with slip-and-fall accidents caused by slippery surfaces.

There are two main types of asphalt sealants available: coal tar-based products (CTP) and acrylic-based products (ABP). Both types offer excellent protection for asphalt surfaces when properly applied according to manufacturer specifications. CTPs are more durable but require more frequent application. At the same time, ABPs are less durable but last longer between applications, making them easier to maintain over time.

Asphalt sealcoating is a process that helps protect and extend the life of asphalt surfaces. To ensure proper application, it's essential to properly prepare the surface before applying any sealant.

How to Prepare for Asphalt Sealcoating?

Cleaning the surface is a crucial step in preparing for asphalt sealcoating. It involves removing dirt, debris, and any existing sealant from the area to be sealed. Pressure washing or scrubbing with a stiff brush can help remove the stubborn buildup of oil, grease, and other contaminants. For optimal results, a specialized solvent may be used to completely clean the surface before applying the new sealant.

Repairing cracks and potholes is another important part of the preparation for asphalt sealcoating. This process requires filling any cracks or holes with appropriate patch material, such as cold-mix asphalt patching compound or hot-pour rubberized crack filler. Once filled in, these areas should be smoothed out using a trowel or other flat tool to level with the surrounding pavement before sealing begins.

Finally, some surfaces may require an additional layer of protection before applying the asphalt sealer; this usually takes the form of either primer or additive (such as sand). Primers are typically applied directly onto the cleaned surface, while additives are mixed into the liquid sealant prior to application onsite. Both serve to protect against moisture penetration and ensure proper adhesion between old and new layers of material during the sealing process.

It is important to take the necessary steps when preparing for asphalt sealcoating, such as cleaning the surface, repairing cracks and potholes, and applying primer or additives (if needed). Work with a professional paving company such as Lexington Asphalt Services. We will ensure all of the preparation is executed correctly for the best possible adhesion of the sealant. 

The Process of Applying Asphalt Sealcoating



Pre-Application Preparation and Safety Measures:

Before applying asphalt sealcoating, it is important to take the necessary safety measures. Donning protective garments such as hand coverings, trousers, and a breathing mask/respirator is essential for safety. Additionally, any loose debris should be removed from the surface before starting work. Finally, a cleaning agent may need to be utilized to guarantee that the area is ready before beginning the application.

Application Techniques and Equipment Used:

Asphalt sealcoating can be applied using either a sprayer or a squeegee. A sprayer will evenly coat the entire area with sealant, while a squeegee allows for more control over where the material is applied on larger surfaces like driveways and parking lots. You'll also want to use an asphalt broom when spreading out the sealer so that it adheres properly to the surface.

After applying asphalt sealcoating, it is essential to perform post-application cleanup for the project to last longer without needing repairs. This includes removing any excess material left behind by sweeping up with an asphalt broom or using a pressure washer if necessary; this helps prevent water pooling which can cause damage over time due to freeze/thaw cycles during winter months in Kentucky. Additionally, keeping weeds away from newly sealed areas can help maintain longevity.

Lexington Asphalt Services Sealcoating Service

Asphalt sealcoating is an integral part of protecting and maintaining your driveway or parking lot. Asphalt sealcoating should be done every 3-5 years, depending on usage and weather conditions, so it's important to keep up with regular maintenance and inspections in order to get the most out of your asphalt. By understanding the asphalt sealcoating process, you can ensure that your property remains in excellent condition for years to come.

Take advantage of Lexington Asphalt Services' professional sealcoating process and experience its long-lasting benefits to your asphalt surfaces. Contact us today for a free consultation on how we can help protect your pavement investment.