Asphalt pavements have been around for years. Many driveways and parking lots today are made of asphalt. However, these surfaces are exposed to harmful agents such as rain, snow, sun, chemicals, and oil among others which significantly reduce their lifespan. Sealcoating is a product applied on these surfaces to shield them from these destructive agents. Unfortunately, there are some things about asphalt and sealcoating you didn’t know.
- Asphalt is durable
Some people believe that asphalt is not durable and will only wear out within a few years. In reality, asphalt parking lots and driveways will even last over 25 years especially when properly installed and maintained. However, factors such as the installation process, materials used, and weather among others will determine the lifespan of your asphalt surfaces.
- Sealcoating doesn’t increase the lifespan
Some people believe that a sealcoat does not have any impact on the lifespan of an asphalt surface. A sealcoat will give your old asphalt pavement an impressive look. By repelling water and preventing other harmful substances from coming into direct contact with asphalt, sealcoating improves the lifespan of your driveway or parking lot. The regular re-sealcoating costs you incur every two or three years are incomparable to the cost of replacing your entire driveway because of poor maintenance.
- Asphalt is inexpensive
When building your new home, you’ll discover that driveway paving or parking lot is not cheap. However, when looking for one of the most affordable options, asphalt should certainly cross your mind. Asphalt is cheaper than cement as it is mainly made of recycled materials. Furthermore, although concrete may have a longer lifespan, it is expensive to repair. Asphalt is not only easy to install but also maintain especially with the use of sealcoating.
- The sealcoat smell is not harmful
There’s a misconception that the sealer’s distinct smell can be harmful to one’s healthful. The naphthalene present in tar-based sealer causes this smell. However, according to the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienist, the odor has a very low concentration. Consequently, you should not worry about it.
- You can use your newly-sealcoated driveway within 24 hours
When it comes to applying a sealcoat, some people fear they will be unable to use their driveway and parking lot for a long time to allow it to heal. Luckily, you can use your asphalt surface within 24 hours after applying the sealcoat. However, sealcoating should not be done on a rainy day. At Mid-State Sealcoating, we know the right time to sealcoat your driveway to ensure you get the best possible results.
- Asphalt is cheap to repair
When selecting your driveway or parking lot material, it’s advisable to consider repair and maintenance cost. Of all the materials, asphalt is among the cheapest ones to maintain. When cracks and potholes begin to appear on your asphalt driveway, call us on 774-530-1808 for help.
- Sealcoating is also good on an old asphalt driveway
Some people think that you should only apply sealcoat on new driveways and parking lots. Sealcoating your old dilapidated driveway will not only improve its look but also enhance your driving experience. When our crew at Mid-State Sealcoating get to your premises, they will identify the repairs that need to be done before we give your old driveway a new look.
