Seal coating is crucial in extending the life span and aesthetics of paved materials and surfaces. As the weather takes a toll on the surfaces, cars’ constant traffic and chemicals like oil and gasoline may affect the quality of asphalt.
Sealing asphalt creates a safe shield to increase the durability of driveways, parking lots, and other paved grounds. In the following article, we have discussed the advantages of applying the sealing on the asphalt, the procedure of sealing, and the contribution of the sealing to cost-effective pavement maintenance. To learn more in detail, keep reading.
1. Why Is Asphalt Sealing Necessary?
It is crucial to seal paved surfaces, especially to prevent damaging effects posed by the surrounding environment. Street asphalt poses a potential threat to different forms of materials since it is open to natural forces such as sunlight, water, and fluctuating temperatures that cause it to oxidize, gradually breaking down its strength.
These rays tend to cause some amount of evaporation to the asphalt binder, a condition that results in the formation of cracks and the creation of brittle surfaces. Whereas, asphalt sealing works as a barrier to impede intrusion of these constituents into the surface thereby creating a potential for infrastructural degradation. It also wards off negative elements such as motor oil and other chemicals that can cause the degradation of the pavement.
2. The Process of Asphalt Sealing
Asphalt sealing is the process of cleaning, filling cracks, and finally applying a coat of sealant on the affected asphalt surface. First, the surface to be treated is washed in such a way that it is free from dust, dirt, and oils. Some of the interventions include breaking the surface to develop openings which are cracks and potholes to level the road.
This sealant is spread uniformly by squeegees or sprayers and places a cover on the asphalt to protect it. This process of texturizing also helps in making the pavement more aesthetic and also helps in keeping it from getting eroded.
3. Benefits of Regular Asphalt Sealing
Implementing the sealing routine has many advantages, and aesthetics is only one of them. Sealed asphalt is less permeable than other materials, which means that it is less likely to swell when water seeps in after a snowstorm. It also reduces the probability of the formation of cracks which can be very expensive to repair once formed.
Also, sealing adds some quality to the color and texture of the pavement and makes it look attractive and well-maintained. In the long run, these advantages mean substantial savings in expenses and lower costs of constant repairs and resurfacing.
4. How Often Should You Seal Your Asphalt?
The frequency at which an asphalt appears to require sealing depends on elements such as traffic flow, weather patterns, and the strength of earlier coatings. Generally, it is advised that you seal your asphalt every 2 – 3 years. In some geographical locations, sealing may require to be done from time to time depending on the prevailing weather conditions.
Excessive sealing, on the other hand, may cause sealant buildup to inhibit racers from getting the necessary grip. It is advisable to consult a professional contractor regarding the ideal schedule for your pavement requirements.
