Asphalt maintenance involves several options, but understanding resurfacing vs sealcoating is key to making the best decision for your driveway or parking lot.
While both methods improve asphalt surfaces, they achieve different objectives based on your pavement’s condition.
To determine what works best for your driveway, it’s essential to distinguish resurfacing from sealcoating and understand how each method can enhance the state of your asphalt
What Is Resurfacing?
The term asphalt resurfacing refers to the process of putting a thin layer of Asphalt over the entire surface of your driveway or Parking lot.
By adding a thin layer of Asphalt, you will have a fresh and smooth surface free of cracks or stains.
Usually, no fixes for the underlying problems in the first place are fixed during this process.
Over the next year, you will start to see crack or potholes form where they were on the bottom layer.
There is not much you can do to prevent the cracks from reforming after resurfacing.
What Is Sealcoating?
Just like resurfacing, sealcoating provides a beautiful look to your driveway or parking lot.
Sealcoating with a product like SafeSeal will provide UV and Weather protection to your driveway that is both long-lasting and environmentally friendly.
The primary purpose is to act as a protective shield from chemicals and other environmental elements that deteriorate the quality of the pavement.
We have found that Asphalt should be sealcoated every two years. When appropriately maintained, Asphalt can last a very long time.
The Verdict
There are two main factors when you are deciding on whether to resurface or seal coat Price and Current Condition.
Price Difference
- Resurfacing will cost $1 to $3 per square foot.
- Sealcoating will cost you .15 to .25 cents per square foot.
Current Condition (Questions to think about)
- Does your Asphalt have “Spider Web” cracks covering large areas?
- Does your Asphalt have eroded edges or parts that have filled in with sand or dirt?
- Overall, does it look like your Asphalt is starting to disintegrate?
If your answer is yes to any of the questions you should look into resurfacing your Asphalt.
If your Asphalt shows minor cracks and/or small potholes, you should look into Sealcoating.
When Asphalt is properly maintained on a regular 2-year schedule, you will extend its life span and may never need to resurface your driveway.
If you have any questions or may not be sure when the last time you had sealcoat applied to your asphalt, then you should contact B&E coating Services , LLC “The asphalt maintenance specialists.”
One of our experts can come do an evaluation to see what needs to be done to keep your asphalt in tip top shape.
You can contact us here for any questions or to set up a free consultation.
