What is Seal Coating for Asphalt?
We often find ourselves explaining the importance and role of seal coating in the maintenance of asphalt paving to our clients. That’s why we’re delving deeper into what precisely seal coating is and why it plays a critical role in maintaining the quality, appearance, and longevity of your asphalt surfaces.
At Tates Creek Paving, whether you are taking the first preliminary steps into the process of asphalt paving or are looking for a job to be done with your current asphalt driveway or surface, then we are happy to share our knowledge with you.
If you are curious about the seal coating process and if it is necessary for your project, then give us a call and we’ll be happy to discuss your specific project.
Seal Coating Defined
Seal coating is a protective layer that is applied on an asphalt surface. This protective measure is designed to safeguard the pavement from potential damaging elements, including the sun's harmful UV rays, chemicals, salt, and water. A seal coat consists of either coal tar pitch or asphalt cement mixed with inert fillers, water, emulsifying agents, or additives. It is applied as a coating which, when dried, forms a protective barrier, providing a resilient coating to the surface of the pavement.
The Importance of Seal Coating
One might ask – why is seal coating important for asphalt paving? Well, the reasons are plenty:
- Enhances Pavement Life: First and foremost, seal coating significantly extends the life of asphalt pavements. It protects the asphalt from the harsh elements that it is exposed to daily, slowing down the process of wear and tear.
- Cost-Effective: Seal coating is a cost-effective way of maintaining your asphalt pavement. It costs considerably less to seal coat your pavement periodically than to have to replace or repair the whole pavement.
- Curb Appeal: A fresh seal coat improves the appearance of asphalt, making it look brand new. This cosmetic enhancement is often the first to be noticed by anyone visiting your property.
- Protection Against Weather Damage: Seal coating offers protection against both water-based and sun-based damage. It prevents water from seeping into the pavement layers, thereby preventing freeze-thaw erosion during winter months. Seal coating also shields against oxidation caused by the sun.
- Resistance to Chemicals and Oil: Seal coating provides excellent resistance against oil and automotive or chemical spills. This makes it ideal for driveways and other commercial areas where such spills are routine.
- Longevity: With regular seal coating treatments, the longevity of your asphalt pavement can be increased significantly, offering an attractive and durable surface for years to come.
Why You’ll Love It
With Seal Coating defined, we can now dive into the benefits:
- Consistent Pavement Color: One of the benefits of Seal Coating is that it slows down the oxidation of your asphalt—no more worn-out gray color. With a coat of asphalt sealer, your pavement will lock in moisture to reduce the speed of discoloration.
- Keep Out the Elements: We can prevent damaged pavement, but we can’t prevent the weather! That is why many roads see an increase in potholes after a particularly rainy spring or snowy winter. Even small debris from autumn leaves can get into the smallest openings and cause a crack to worsen. Seal Coating can seal out water from melting ice or heavy rain. This prevents water from seeping into and expanding cracks, making them worse.
- Cost Efficient: The term “you get what you pay for” also is true for asphalt. If you don’t maintain your asphalt surfaces with preventative measures, such as seal coating, you may be looking at a costly repaving bill down the road.
- Time Efficient: If you run a business that frequently sees a busy parking lot, shutting down the area to do such a big job can be a big bother. Regular maintenance with Seal Coating has the potential to extend the life of your asphalt when completed regularly and keep your lot open longer.
Contact Us Today
At the end of the day, your asphalt is only as good as the care it receives. With frequent maintenance, your asphalt will look great for years to come. To learn more about our seal coating and asphalt paving services, be sure to contact our team today at Tates Creek Paving.
Dedicated to quality service done in a timely manner, our team is here to help you with your next project—big or small.
Tates Creek Paving is located in Lexington and Richmond, Kentucky, and proudly serves Central Kentucky, including Lexington, Richmond, Paris, Versailles, Nicholasville, and Georgetown, Kentucky.
