Why Does Your Pavement Need Sealcoating?

Asphalt pavement is just aggregate mixed with binder. The binder is used to hold together the aggregate, thus producing what we call asphalt.  It’s essential to maintain the binder if you want to prolong the lifespan of the pavement. This, however, is only possible through sealcoating. Failing to sealcoat your pavement can cause it to deteriorate, thus reducing its lifespan. 

However, one might ask why it’s important to sealcoat the pavement. Below we list the top reasons why your pavement needs sealcoating. 

To protect is against water damage

It sounds awkward that water can damage something as hard and sturdy like asphalt. However, it is important to understand that water is one of the greatest enemies of asphalt pavements. Water can easily penetrate through the tiny cracks in the surface. When this happens, and there are freeze and thaw cycles, the cracks can start to expand. 

When this happens repetitively, the cracks continue expanding, and this leads to the formation of large fissures and potholes on your pavement. Yes, that’s what water can do to your pavement if you don’t sealcoat it. But, with sealcoating, these initial tiny cracks are protected, and water cannot penetrate the surface. 

Seal coating protects pavements from corrosive elements

Water is not the material that can damage your asphalt pavement. Other materials like motor oil, gasoline, de-icing, and antifreeze chemicals can easily corrode, stain, and eventually damage your surface. It’s not recommended to allow such hazardous materials to sit on your pavement for an extended period of time since they are harmful to wildlife. However, sealcoating your pavement ensures that these materials remain on the surface, thus protecting the surface from any additional wear and tear. 

To enhance the appearance of your pavement

Although sealcoating is not done for cosmetic purposes, it does come with some cosmetic benefits. Sealcoating helps in preserving the black asphalt appearance, thus preventing it from fading after exposing it to the elements. Moreover, if your pavement has started to show some signs of age, sealcoating will give it a brand new look. 

Cosmetics should not be the reason why you want to sealcoat your pavement. However, you should note that your pavement is the first thing that people will see when they visit your property. Therefore, if you want your property to look presentable, safe, and welcoming, consider sealcoating your pavement regularly. 

Sealcoating enhances flexibility

Asphalt pavements are considered to be flexible surfaces compared to concrete pavements which are right. Now, when you drive or park your car on your asphalt pavement, it “stretches” microscopically because of the weight of the car. Now, as your pavement ages, it becomes brittle, and its flexibility is significantly reduced, and it can start to crack with time. However, sealcoating your pavement regularly ensures that your pavement retains its flexibility, thus slowing its path to instability. 

Makes it easier to clean the pavement

Although this is not a physical benefit to your pavement, it can be very beneficial. If you doubt this, try sweeping a concrete pavement, and then repeat the same process on a recently sealcoated pavement. You will realize that your broom slides easily on your asphalt pavement compared to concrete pavement. 

To slow the oxidation process

Oxidation is the deterioration of asphalt binder which results from exposure of UV rays. While it’s nearly impossible to prevent oxidation, sealcoating your pavement can significantly slow the oxidation process. Apart from water, oxidation is another great enemy of asphalt pavements. 

It causes the surface to weaken, thus allowing cracks to develop faster. Besides, oxidation also makes asphalt pavements to deteriorate too. So, when you sealcoat an asphalt pavement, you add a protective layer on the top of the binder. Thus, it is the sealer that’s exposed to the sun, not the binder. 

The experts from ABС Paving, sealcoating contractor from Florida, say that it is important to regularly sealcoat your pavement every two or three years, but this depends on the area where you live, as well as the traffic flow of the area. This will have a great impact on lengthening the lifespan of your pavement. 

To improve its durability

Sealcoating your pavement will reduce the possibilities of damages, which can happen because of elements, as well as constant traffic flow. This, in turn, increases its durability, and also reduces the chances of incurring costly repairs. 

With that said, you should never underrate the importance of sealcoating your asphalt pavement. Whether you are a private homeowner or commercial property owner, make sure that you sealcoat your pavement regularly if you want it to serve you for a long time. Besides, you should make sure that you hire an experienced contractor if you want to get long-lasting results. 

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