ANSWER & QUESTION
Every asphalt maintenance project begins with an informative consultation during which you can get all the answers you need to start planning to fix your pavement. We’ve compiled a list of our most frequently asked questions to give you insight into what planning for asphalt maintenance requires and how our team can help.
What Is the Purpose of Asphalt Sealcoating?
The purpose of asphalt sealcoating is to protect and extend the life of asphalt pavement. This process involves applying a thin layer of sealant to the surface of the pavement, which provides a protective barrier against water, oil, and other harmful substances that can penetrate and damage the asphalt. It also acts as a UV blocker, preventing the sun's rays from breaking down the binder in the asphalt, resulting in cracks and potholes. Sealcoating helps to maintain the smooth surface of the pavement, enhances its appearance, and makes it easier to clean. Overall, sealcoating is an effective way to maximize the lifespan of asphalt pavement and helps to reduce long-term maintenance costs.
What Season Is the Best for Sealcoating in Austin?
The best season for sealcoating in Texas is during the months of April to October when the temperatures are consistently warm and dry. This allows the sealer to cure properly and offers the best protection to your pavement. It is important to avoid sealing during times of high humidity or rain, as this can cause the sealer to dry incorrectly and lead to future pavement issues.
Can You Sealcoat Over Cracks?
Asphalt sealcoating is used to protect and extend the life of asphalt pavement surfaces. However, it is not advisable to sealcoat over cracks on asphalt surfaces as the sealcoating material will not be able to penetrate the crack and properly bond to the asphalt below. Additionally, the crack may continue to expand or shift, causing the sealcoating material to crack and peel away. It is recommended to repair any cracks or damage to the asphalt surface prior to sealcoating to ensure a proper and long-lasting sealcoat application.
Do I Need to Clean Oil Stains on My Asphalt Pavement?
Yes, it is important to clean oil stains on your asphalt pavement as soon as possible. Oil can penetrate the surface of the asphalt and weaken its structure, leading to cracks and other damage. Additionally, oil stains can be unsightly and can make your pavement look neglected. There are several methods and products available for cleaning oil stains on asphalt, including using a degreaser or absorbent materials such as kitty litter or baking soda.
Should I Repair Potholes Prior to Sealcoating?
It is generally recommended to repair potholes prior to sealcoating. This is because sealcoating can only provide a protective layer over the asphalt and cannot fix underlying issues, such as potholes. If potholes are not repaired before sealcoating, they can continue to deteriorate, compromising the integrity of the asphalt surface. Therefore, it is best to address any potholes before applying a sealcoat to ensure a smooth and durable surface.
How Do Contractors Prepare an Asphalt Pavement for Sealcoating?
The pavement must be clean, so contractors remove oil spots, dirt, and other debris. They may use a combination of motorized sweepers, power and hand brooms, and blowers to clean your pavement.
Will Asphalt Sealcoating Cover Spider Cracks?
Asphalt sealcoating can help minimize the appearance of spider cracks, but it will not completely cover them. Spider cracks are typically caused by surface tension and are often a sign of underlying pavement damage. Sealcoating can help protect the pavement from further damage and prevent water from seeping into the cracks, which can worsen the damage over time. However, if the cracks are severe or the pavement is significantly damaged, a more comprehensive repair such as patching or resurfacing may be required. It's best to consult a professional paving contractor to determine the most appropriate repair method for your specific situation.
Will Sealcoating Cover Stains on My Asphalt Pavement?
While sealcoating provides a protective layer on the asphalt surface, it may not fully cover stains that have penetrated deep into the pavement. However, sealcoating can help to prevent further damage to the pavement, and it can help to extend the life of the asphalt surface.
If you have stubborn stains on your asphalt pavement, it's best to consult a professional paving contractor who can assess the situation and recommend the best course of action. They may suggest cleaning the stains before applying the sealcoat or using a specialized stain remover to improve the appearance of the pavement.
Why Are There Tire Marks on My Recently Sealed Asphalt Pavement?
Tire marks on recently sealed asphalt pavement are a common occurrence and can happen for several reasons. Here are some possible explanations:
- Improper Curing: Sealcoating requires time to cure and harden properly. If the pavement is not given enough time to dry and harden, tire marks could form when cars drive over it.
- Heavy Vehicles: Tire marks on freshly sealed pavement can occur when heavy vehicles are driven over the surface too soon after the sealcoat is applied. The weight of the vehicle can create indentations in the soft surface, leaving tire marks.
- High Temperatures: Hot weather can cause sealcoating to soften and become more malleable, allowing tire marks to form more easily.
- Poor Quality Sealcoat: Poor quality sealcoat can create a sticky and soft surface that is more prone to tire marks.
How Long will Asphalt Paving Last?
The longevity of asphalt paving depends on several factors, including the quality of the materials used, the thickness of the pavement, the weather conditions in the area, the amount of traffic it receives, and the level of maintenance it receives. With proper installation and regular maintenance, asphalt paving can last between 15 to 20 years on average. However, some factors can shorten the lifespan of the pavement, such as heavy traffic and extreme weather conditions.
What is the Difference Between Paving and Sealcoating?What is the Difference Between Paving and Sealcoating?
Paving is the process of installing a new layer of asphalt on top of an existing surface or creating a completely new surface. The process involves preparing the ground or existing asphalt surface by removing any debris, grading it to the proper slope, and then laying a new layer of asphalt material. Paving is typically done when the existing surface is too deteriorated, cracked, or has potholes.
Sealcoating, on the other hand, is a protective layer applied on top of the existing asphalt surface. It acts as a barrier between the asphalt and the
elements, preventing damage to the surface caused by sun, water, and chemicals. Sealcoating can extend the lifespan of asphalt surfaces by protecting them from cracking and fading due to oxidation caused by UV rays. The process involves applying a layer of sealant to the surface, allowing it to dry, and then adding a second layer for added protection.