Common Sealcoating Myths (And the Truth Behind Them)
Asphalt pavement is a significant investment for any property owner. To protect that investment, regular maintenance is essential. One of the most effective maintenance procedures is sealcoating, a process that applies a protective layer over your asphalt to shield it from the elements. However, a lot of misinformation surrounds sealcoating, which can lead to confusion and costly mistakes.
This guide will clear up some of the most common myths about sealcoating. We'll explore the facts behind the fiction, helping you understand why this process is so vital for preserving your driveways, parking lots, and other asphalt surfaces. By the end, you'll have the knowledge to make informed decisions about maintaining your pavement, especially in the unique climate of Lake County, FL.
Myth 1: Sealcoating is Just for Looks
The Truth: While a freshly sealcoated surface has a rich, dark appearance that boosts curb appeal, the benefits go far beyond aesthetics. Sealcoating is primarily a protective measure. It acts as a barrier against elements that can cause serious damage to your asphalt.
Asphalt is a porous material. Without a sealcoat, water, UV rays, and chemicals like oil and gasoline can penetrate the surface.
- Water seeps into cracks, freezes, and expands, leading to larger cracks and potholes.
- UV rays from the sun cause the asphalt binder to oxidize and become brittle, making it more susceptible to cracking.
- Oil and gasoline are solvents that soften and break down the asphalt.
A quality sealcoat prevents these substances from penetrating the pavement, significantly extending its lifespan and reducing the need for expensive repairs. Think of it as sunscreen for your asphalt—it blocks out the harmful elements to keep the surface strong and intact.
Myth 2: You Should Sealcoat New Asphalt Immediately
The Truth: This is a surprisingly common and damaging misconception. Freshly laid asphalt needs time to cure properly. This curing process allows the oils and liquids within the asphalt mix to evaporate and the surface to harden completely. Applying a sealant too soon will trap these oils, preventing the asphalt from hardening as it should.
This can result in a surface that remains soft and is more prone to damage like tire marks and scuffs. Most professionals recommend waiting anywhere from 90 days to a full year before the initial sealcoating. This waiting period ensures the asphalt has fully cured and is ready to bond effectively with the sealant, providing a durable and long-lasting protective layer.
Myth 3: Sealcoating Can Fix Existing Cracks and Potholes
The Truth: Sealcoating is a preventative maintenance tool, not a structural repair solution. Applying a sealcoat over existing damage like large cracks or potholes is like putting a bandage on a broken bone. It might hide the problem temporarily, but it won't fix the underlying issue.
Before any sealcoating project, it's crucial to properly repair any existing damage. This involves cleaning out and filling cracks with a specialized rubberized crack filler and patching potholes with new asphalt. Once these repairs are complete and have cured, the sealcoat can be applied to protect the entire surface, including the repaired areas. Skipping this step will lead to the same cracks and potholes reappearing quickly, wasting the money you spent on the sealcoat.
Myth 4: Any Sealcoat Product Will Do the Job
The Truth: The quality of sealcoating products varies widely. Cheaper, lower-quality sealants often contain a high percentage of water and fewer protective solids. While they may provide that fresh, black look initially, they offer minimal protection and wear away quickly, sometimes in less than a year.
Professional-grade sealers are formulated with high-quality polymers and a higher concentration of solids, providing superior durability and protection against UV rays, water, and chemicals. When hiring a contractor, it’s important to ask about the type and brand of sealer they use. A reputable professional will use high-quality materials that are appropriate for the climate and traffic conditions of your property, ensuring you get the best possible protection for your investment. Here in Lake County, FL, using a sealant designed to withstand intense sun and heavy rain is critical.
Myth 5: You Only Need One Thick Coat of Sealant
The Truth: When it comes to sealcoating, thicker is not better. Applying one extremely thick coat can lead to several problems. It will take much longer to cure, and it's more likely to crack, peel, or flake off, especially in high-traffic areas. This is because a thick layer doesn't cure evenly, leaving a soft layer underneath a hard outer shell.
The industry standard and best practice is to apply two thin coats. The first coat penetrates the pores of the asphalt and bonds to the surface. After it has dried completely, a second thin coat is applied to create a uniform, durable finish. This two-coat method ensures proper curing, stronger adhesion, and a longer-lasting protective barrier.
Myth 6: Sealcoating is an Easy DIY Project
The Truth: While it might seem tempting to save money by sealcoating your driveway yourself, it’s a job best left to professionals. Proper sealcoating requires specialized equipment, knowledge, and experience to achieve a lasting, high-quality result.
A professional sealcoating contractor will:
- Thoroughly clean the surface: This involves using power washers, blowers, and brooms to remove all dirt, debris, and oil spots, which is essential for proper adhesion.
- Perform necessary repairs: They have the expertise and materials to properly fill cracks and patch potholes before sealing.
- Use high-quality products: Professionals have access to commercial-grade sealants that are more durable than the products typically available at big-box retail stores.
- Apply the sealant correctly: They use professional equipment like spray wands or squeegee machines to apply thin, even coats for optimal performance and appearance.
Without the right preparation and application technique, a DIY job can result in a blotchy, uneven finish that fails prematurely, costing you more in the long run.
Myth 7: Sealcoating Lasts Forever
The Truth: Unfortunately, no sealcoat is permanent. Over time, traffic, weather, and sun exposure will wear down the protective layer. However, a professionally applied, high-quality sealcoat will significantly extend the life of your asphalt.
Generally, it’s recommended to have your asphalt sealcoated every 2-4 years. The exact frequency depends on several factors, including the amount of traffic your pavement receives, its exposure to the sun, and the climate. Regular inspections can help you determine when it’s time to reseal. By maintaining a consistent sealcoating schedule, you protect your asphalt from long-term deterioration and avoid the high cost of replacement.
Protect Your Pavement with Professional Sealcoating
Understanding the truth behind these common sealcoating myths is the first step toward effective asphalt maintenance. Sealcoating is a critical, cost-effective procedure that protects your pavement, enhances its appearance, and extends its lifespan for years to come.
If you’re looking for professional sealcoating in Lake County, FL, and want the job done right, the experts at Reliable Pavement Maintenance are here to help. We use only high-quality materials and proven techniques to ensure your asphalt is protected. Contact us today for a free estimate and let us help you preserve your pavement investment.