A fresh coat of driveway sealer always makes a dramatic difference in how good a home looks, but it is so much more than that! Like so many home maintenance projects, there is more than meets the eye. Just as wood needs stain to protect it from water damage, your asphalt also needs protection. Sun and rain weather, hot and cold temperatures, all dry out the surface and leave your pavement open to more damage. You need to apply a seal coat every two years will keep the surface safe, protected, and looking fantastic.

Surface Protection Matters to What’s Underneath

We wax our car and use lotion on our skin for protection. Driveway sealer does the same thing for your asphalt. It protects and seals the surface to keep water out. Well-Looked after asphalt will make water bead up and roll away just as a freshly waxed car will. Take the time to throw a bucket of water on your parking area and see what happens. Is the water beading and rolling away, or is it seeping in? Water will erode the foundation, and cause cracks, both of which will continue to get worse until you get it fixed.

Quality Is Always Your Best Bet

Whether you are a do-it-yourself person or looking to hire someone to do the seal coating, quality is essential for success. There are far too many cheap types of driveway sealer out there! Make sure that the seal coat is airport grade to get the best protection for your asphalt. Coal tar is another crucial thing to look for. These sealers provide the best for your asphalt and help to bring it back to its most glossy and water-repellent.

Is It Too Late?

Are you concerned because you already have cracks or even potholes? No need to worry, this is easily fixed! Crack filler and asphalt patch are easy to use and will fix any problem areas.

How to Prep Before Using Driveway Sealer

The surface has to be clean for the seal coat to adhere properly. Start with a thorough sweeping, or pressure washing, of the whole area. Clean any oil stains with a degreaser. Remove any loose debris and weeds. Fill all cracks. Finally, tape off the sidewalk, garage walls, and anywhere else you don’t want turned black, just like you would for painting.

Start At The Top

Apply as thin a coat of sealer as you can. It’s far better to apply two thin layers that one thick one. A thick coat will not cure correctly and will peel. Using a squeegee or broom, work your way down the driveway until the asphalt is completely covered. Don’t forget to block off the area to prevent people from walking or driving on it, and allow the recommended time for it to cure and dry.

Now you know driveway maintenance isn’t just about looks, it’s about preserving your asphalt. With a good quality seal coat and a few simple steps, you are on your way to using driveway sealer to protect your pavement.

Do you have asphalt driveway problems like cracks and holes? Don’t fret! Do-it-yourself job it is not difficult, and it gives you years more use from your pavement.

By now, you should already know that applying sealing to your asphalt driveway is not only a recommended step to maintaining it but a requirement altogether. Sealing your driveway will help you avoid the trouble of having to re-lay asphalt to your entire pavement because of too many cracks, holes, and other damage.

If you want your driveway to have a beautiful slate-black look, you need a high-quality seal asphalt. However, what's the best choice if there are so many options available? Before you purchase online or in-stores, it's essential that you identify first what makes a high-grade seal asphalt different from cheap ones.

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