Are you noticing road crews out and about in your neighborhood? Are they slathering some black goop on the asphalt? You’re not crazy; it is likely sealcoating season. Wondering what sealcoating is, why it’s necessary, and when is the best time to schedule it for your property? Wonder no more! This blog post by The Pavement Group has got you covered.
What is Sealcoating?
Sealcoating is a process that seals and protects asphalt pavement from the elements. It’s necessary to keep your pavement in good condition, as it can extend the surface’s life and make it look nicer too! The best time to seal coat your pavement will vary depending on where you live, but typically temperatures between 50 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit are ideal.
How to tell if it’s the Right Time:
If you’re wondering whether sealcoating is suitable for you, here are some telltale signs that it might be:
The road crews are out and about – This is one of the most apparent signs that sealcoating season has arrived! If you see road crews in your neighborhood or downtown, chances are they’re applying a coat of sealant to the asphalt.
The asphalt is sticky – If you drive on the asphalt and it feels sticky or tacky to the touch, that’s a sign that it could use some sealant.
There are puddles of water lingering after it rains – Another indicator that your pavement needs some help is if rainwater lingers in pools rather than dissipating quickly. It can be a sign that the surface isn’t sealed correctly and is letting moisture seep in, leading to cracks down the line.
Benefits of Sealcoating:
There are several excellent reasons to seal coat your pavement, even if it doesn’t appear to need it.
Protect Your Asphalt Surface: The sealant forms a barrier on the surface of your asphalt, protecting it from elements like sun damage, water damage, and oxidation.
Prevent Potholes: By keeping your pavement adequately sealed, you can prevent small cracks and fissures from turning into big potholes.
Extend the Life of Your Asphalt: Regular sealcoating can extend the lifespan of your asphalt by preventing wear and tear.
Sealcoating Tips for Property Owners:
Now that you know the benefits of sealcoating, how do you go about it? Here are a few tips:
Check for Damage: The first step is to check your pavement for any damage. If there are any cracks, potholes, or other issues, they will need to be fixed before you can seal coat the surface.
Clean the Surface: The next step is to clean the surface of your asphalt. It can be done with a pressure washer or simply by hosing it down.
Apply the Sealant: Once the surface is clean and dry, you can apply the sealant. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions closely.
Wait 24 Hours: Allow the sealant to dry completely (usually 24 hours) before walking or driving on it.
Ending Note:
Sealcoating is a reasonably straightforward process, but it’s essential to do it right to get the most out of it. If you’re not sure whether your pavement needs to be sealed or not, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and go ahead with it.
You can talk to one of our experts at The Pavement Group, serving Boston, MA, to get started.
We’ll be delighted to offer you a free quotation and answer any questions you may have.