Did you know that it is recommended that you sealcoat your asphalt pavement every two years? Doing this will prolong the life of your asphalt and help you avoid costly asphalt repairs down the road. Sealing your asphalt pavement will protect it from the sun’s harmful UV rays which can cause oxidation, making the pavement dry and brittle. It will also protect it from chemicals that can deteriorate asphalt. So how long does it take and more importantly, how long will this impact your business? Let’s take a look.

The Process Of Sealcoating

The first step is to clear your asphalt. This may involve a number of different tools like a power blower, power brush, or even just a simple push broom. Debris can be trapped under  the sealcoat and cause it not to adhere to certain parts, making them vulnerable to damage.

The next step is to address any issues with the asphalt. Cracks should be cleaned out and then filled with a sealer. Potholes should be filled and low areas where water can accumulate should be leveled.

Next is the application of the sealcoating. 2 coats of asphalt sealant are applied (spray method) over the entire asphalt parking lot area at separate times during the same day, giving it a “rich” flat pitch black appearance. If it is for a residential blacktop driveway, a single heavy coat of asphalt sealant is applied with a spray method , cutting in around concrete by  hand applied method with special sealcoat brushes keeping the sealer off where in shouldn’t be .

The Waiting Period

It actually doesn’t take too long for the sealcoat to “cure” or dry. Freshly seal coated areas can be reopened to pedestrians within just a few hours and to vehicle traffic within 24 to 36 hours, at times sooner on commercial parking lots where 24 hours doesn’t work.

Newly full depth paved areas will need to remain closed to both types of traffic for at least 8-10 days , patch work maybe opened once asphalt is cool to touch.. So it’s important to inform those who need to know about this in advance.

The great thing about this process is that it can be done when it is convenient for you. If a weekend would work best then try and call in advance to schedule this to secure your date. Sealcoating is still the number one way to protect your asphalt and your investment. Rest assured your asphalt parking lot or driveway will be in good hands with B&E  If you have any questions contact B&E Sealcoat today!