Do you have a driveway? A parking lot? Well, that’s good news because it makes you a prime candidate for seal coating! The seal coating process covers the asphalt surface with a protective sealant that helps protect it from weathering and wear and tear. Seal coating extends the life of asphalt pavement and improves the appearance of your property.
However, there are certain things to ensure before getting your property seal coated.
In this blog post, Brothers Paving & Concrete in Arlington, TX, go over the seal coating process and its dos and don’ts for the novice.
Don’t Begin Without Preparation:
Before beginning the process, you must ensure that the overgrown grass and weeds are trimmed to size around the asphalt. Those little buggers will make their way up through the seal coat and create an eyesore if you don’t. Also, any cracks or holes should be repaired before applying the sealant.
Don’t Wait Too Long:
Sealcoating should be done every two to three years, depending on your pavement’s traffic volume. Waiting too long will allow water and other elements to penetrate the asphalt, which will lead to cracking and potholes. By seal coating regularly, you can extend the lifespan of your parking lot significantly.
Wait for the Right Temperature:
The ideal temperature for seal coating is between 60 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit. If it’s too hot, the sealer will dry too quickly and won’t adhere properly to the asphalt. If it’s too cold, the sealer will take forever to dry and can even freeze overnight, which will cause the sealer to crack.
Don’t Forget the Edges:
People’s most frequent blunder when seal coating is failing to seal the edges. The edges are the most vulnerable part of your parking lot because they’re constantly exposed to water and sunlight. You can prevent water and sunlight from damaging your asphalt by sealing the edges.
Do Your Research:
Not all seal coating contractors are created equal. You’ll want to hire a professional and experienced contractor to get the most out of your investment. Ensure they have experience with commercial and residential projects and ask for references. Also, beware of fly-by-night companies that lowball their bids – frequently, they cut corners to save money, which may cost you more in the long run.
Get a Written Estimate:
Request a detailed, itemized estimate that outlines precisely what work will be performed and how much it will cost. Once you have the estimate, review it thoroughly before signing. Hidden costs can be a problem down the road, so you want to make sure everything is accounted for upfront.
Conclusion:
Seal coating is an excellent way to protect your asphalt pavement from the elements and extend its lifespan, but it’s essential to do it right.
Brothers Paving & Concrete is here to help with all of your seal coating needs in Arlington, TX. We provide free estimates on services, including asphalt paving and repair and crack seal, so you know the project’s cost before deciding.
