When To Seal New Asphalt Driveway
A new asphalt driveway can provide you with a great place for parking and access to your property. However, it’s important to take proper care of the surface in order to keep it looking its best and maintain its lifespan. One of the best ways to do this is by sealcoating the asphalt after installation.
But when to seal coat a new asphalt driveway? If you want to know more, we advise you to continue reading as we’re to get into the details of the matter in today’s article.
When Is The Ideal Time To Seal Coat An Asphalt Driveway
The ideal time to seal coat an asphalt driveway is within 12 months of installation. This allows the driveway enough time to cure, as new asphalt needs up to 6 months before any type of treatment. The curing process oxidizes the oils in the mix, making it more resistant against cracking due to wear or exposure to water or chemicals.
Sealcoating also helps protect against ultraviolet (UV) damage from long periods of exposure to sunlight. If a new driveway isn’t sealed within that initial year, then any subsequent seal coats should be done at least every three years thereafter.
Before applying the seal coat, check your asphalt’s condition first. Look for cracks and other signs of damage that need repairing before applying any protective coatings. Applying sealcoat over damaged surfaces could exacerbate those issues in the future if not properly repaired first. In addition, make sure your surface is completely clean and free of loose materials like gravel which would lead to premature coating breakdown and deterioration over time.
Once all repairs are completed and you have ensured your surface is clean, now is the time to apply your sealcoat material. Depending on what type of sealer you use (which could range from oil-based material designed specifically for driveways or mixtures made from DIY ingredients), the application will vary slightly but typically consists of the following steps:
- Apply an even layer across your entire area using a squeegee or roller applicator.
- Allow some time for dry-before-drive, usually between 12 and 24 hours.
- Finally, lightly, mist overtop with water and allow additional drying time of another 8 hours or so for optimal protection.
There are many types of sealers to choose from depending on your needs and preferences:
Water-Based – A water-based sealer is the least expensive and most popular choice for driveway sealing because it’s easy to apply and dries quickly.
Oil-Based – An oil-based sealer offers better protection from harsh chemicals, salt, and UV rays but requires more preparation time before application.
Emulsion Sealers – Emulsion sealers are a combination of asphalt particles and polymers, which provide better protection than either water or oil-based sealers. They’re more expensive but might be worth the extra cost in extreme climates with harsh weather conditions.
You can talk to a local sealer or paving contractor for advice on the best type of material for your asphalt driveway.
Who To Hire If You’re Not Familiar With The Process Of Applying Seal Coat
If you don’t feel comfortable DIY-ing your sealcoat application, it’s best to hire an experienced contractor who specializes in asphalt sealing. A professional can ensure that the job is done correctly and with the proper products according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
They can also provide additional advice on how often a driveway should be resealed, making sure you’re getting the most life out of your asphalt surface.
Moreover, when in doubt about when to seal coat a new asphalt driveway or how to go about doing it, turn to an experienced pro for guidance and help. They can make the job easier and ensure that it is done correctly. After all, sealing your asphalt is an important step in caring for your driveway and you want to make sure that it is done right the first time.
Contact Saul Paving in Kutztown, PA to get started with your seal coating project. They are dedicated to providing quality workmanship and top-notch customer service. They can also help you with the maintenance of your asphalt to keep it looking and performing like new for years to come.
Let Saul Paving help you protect your asphalt driveway today. Please check their website today to learn more about their services.
Conclusion
Ultimately, installing a new asphalt driveway is an investment that takes maintenance in order for it last long term without issues like cracking and requiring expensive repairs down the road. Properly sealing within 12 months will not only help increase longevity but also ensure maximum protection against UV rays and typical foot traffic wear and tear throughout the years ahead.