Sealcoating is an asphalt maintenance service that prolongs the lifespan of your pavement at a fraction of the cost of replacing it. However, it’s important to note that sealcoating can only be done if the blacktop is in good condition.
First, workers will clean the surface thoroughly using brooms and hoses. Any oil or gas stains will be flash heated to burn them off before the seal coat is applied. Visit https://www.rochesternysealcoating.com/ to learn more.
Asphalt surfaces require an impervious shield against the corrosive effects of UV rays, water intrusion and harmful chemicals to prevent premature deterioration. Seal coating serves as this protective layer, prolonging the lifespan of a pavement and reducing the need for costly repairs or replacements.
In its simplest form, seal coating is comprised of a mixture of dissolved asphalt and mineral fillers. These materials are combined with a variety of additives and injected under pressure into the asphalt surface using a spray hose or brush- or squeegee-equipped machine. The final product is then spread across the paved surface in thick coats, with special attention to the edges of the area and any cracks or crevices. The sealant seeps into these areas, replenishing some of the depleted asphalt oils and binder that are inevitably worn away over time, while also enhancing traction and protecting the surface from moisture and harsh chemicals.
The tack coat, applied first, functions as the adhesive base for the sealcoat, solidifying the bond between new and existing asphalt. When executed faithfully, this step ensures that the final result is a seamless integration of aesthetic unity and enhanced durability.
The unsung heroes of the paving arena, however, are the polymers, which heighten the sealcoat’s tenacity and empower it to withstand temperature fluctuations and the strains of traffic. These additives also serve to amplify the coat’s viscosity, preventing it from becoming brittle and susceptible to damage.
By integrating these protective ingredients into the mix, a contractor’s work becomes much more than just a routine road repair. It’s a meticulous process that ensures the longevity of a paved surface, avoiding unnecessary expenses and interventions that could otherwise prove devastating. A seasoned professional understands the intricacies of this process and can offer advice based on years of real-world know-how. This expertise, in turn, allows property owners to enjoy the benefits of judicious management and extend the lifespan of their asphalt assets.
Durability
Sealcoating extends the life of pavement, reducing the need for costly renovation and replacement. It protects the surface against harmful elements, such as UV rays, rain, chemicals, and motor oil. This protective layer preserves the pliant and flexible asphalt binder, enabling it to handle temperature fluctuations and traffic stress. In addition, the protective coating prevents cracking and deterioration that can cause serious safety issues for pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers.
Proper application and curing of sealcoating are essential for its success. It requires a professional contractor who understands the process and uses high-quality materials. Additionally, it is important to ensure that workers wear proper safety gear to prevent exposure to toxic chemicals and fumes. This includes long-sleeved shirts, pants, impervious boots and gloves, and a face mask. It is also advisable to train staff and supervisors on the use of equipment and how to safely apply the sealcoating.
The durability of sealcoating depends on several factors, including the mix design, sand loading, additive content, and the ambient and pavement conditions that allow the coating to cure. Ideally, the mix design should be blended accurately according to the manufacturer’s instructions and allowed to achieve a full cure for up to 24 hours after application. During this period, the water in the wet film is lost and the coating becomes dense and hard.
It is recommended to apply two coats of sealcoating rather than one thick coat, as this will give you the best results. This is because the main purpose of the sealcoat is to provide protection for the asphalt, which it will not be able to do if the material is too thick.
Another factor in determining the durability of sealcoat is the type of binder used. Refined coal tar is the most common, but some studies suggest that this substance contributes to the formation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in rivers and creek beds. As a result, it has been banned in many states. A better alternative is petroleum distillates, which are less toxic and do not leave a sticky residue.
It is also important to use a properly graded sand to ensure that the sealcoating adheres well to the pavement and does not peel off. The sand must be graded to a specific sieve size so that it is neither too coarse nor too fine. This is determined by running it through a sieve.
Aesthetics
Aesthetics is a key attribute that sealcoating wields to elevate a property’s curb appeal and sustain its cleanliness. A faded, weathered asphalt surface leaves a poor initial impression of the home or business and suggests neglect and disrepair. Contrarily, a smooth, jet-black pavement conveys a sense of elegance and sophistication and heightens the property’s perceived value.
Pavement’s exposure to the elements causes it to oxidize and lose its “plasticity.” This deterioration speeds up thermal and fatigue cracking. However, a regular application of sealcoating can significantly slow down these damaging processes.
The deep black color of a freshly applied sealcoat can revitalize the appearance of any residential or commercial property. The uniform look creates a polished, well-maintained aura that is a reflection of the owner’s pride in their property and is sure to impress neighbors, visitors, and passersby.
Additionally, a sealcoat’s non-porous surface characteristic facilitates the quick removal of snow, ice, and other debris. It also resists water absorption, which prevents the formation of puddles and ruts. This helps to keep the area free from moisture, which is essential for preserving the asphalt’s structural integrity.
When paired with regular parking lot maintenance, sealcoating can substantially enhance a commercial property’s curb appeal. A well-maintained parking lot reflects professionalism and reliability, which can significantly boost a company’s image and attract prospective customers or tenants. Several case studies have shown that properties that regularly undergo sealcoating maintenance experience a noticeable increase in their property value.
If you want to start a profitable sealcoating business, it’s important to invest in the right equipment and tools. This will ensure that you’ll be able to deliver the highest quality services for your clients. Additionally, you should register your business with the appropriate authorities. This will make your business a legal entity and allow you to obtain contractor licenses and insurance.
If you’re a beginner in the sealcoating business, consider investing in a software solution that can help you manage your operations. Using an application can streamline route planning, scheduling, and workforce management tasks to improve productivity and profitability. It can even help you find the best locations to offer your services based on mileage costs and other factors.
Safety
While DIY seal coating offers an attractive financial alternative to a thorough renovation or complete replacement, it poses significant safety risks. A sealcoat application is an intense, full-body effort involving spraying, brushing and squeegeeing. It requires the right weather conditions and a proper site preparation. Moreover, no vehicular traffic should be allowed on the pavement during and immediately after application. Additionally, it’s critical to hire an experienced contractor to get the best results.
A poorly executed seal coat will not last long and may even wear off sooner than the old asphalt surface. In addition, improper application will cause the new seal coat to crack and peel. Therefore, it’s vital to understand the benefits and limitations of this maintenance procedure before deciding whether or not to pursue it.
Choosing the wrong type of coal tar sealcoat can be a costly mistake. Some are made with a high percentage of potentially skin-irritating light fractions. Although refined tar sealcoats (RTS) contain less of these lighter fractions than crude tar, the vapors released during the curing process can still irritate the skin. Additionally, the fumes can aggravate asthma and other respiratory ailments.
The choice of additives also affects a sealcoat’s quality. Polyvinyl acetate/acrylic copolymer based additives offer a number of benefits such as thickening, sand/aggregate suspension and faster drying. However, they can also introduce permanent water sensitivity into the cured film and reduce its resistance to salts, fuels, oils, and fats.
A reputable sealcoat supplier will have the equipment and materials necessary to do the job safely and correctly. For instance, a professional will use a hot-pour rubberized crack filler to address smaller cracks and crevices. This product is very sticky and can irritate the skin. It should only be handled by trained professionals who are wearing the proper personal protective equipment (PPE) such as long-sleeved shirts, pants, impervious gloves, and boots. They should also carry a portable eye flush kit in case of any accidental spillage. Additionally, they should wear a face mask when spraying to protect themselves from fumes. A good supplier should have these products in stock and be able to supply their clients with them quickly.