Asphalt sealers near you

When looking for the an asphalt sealcoating service, be sure to follow these guidelines:  

• Verify their license and insurance: Confirm that each asphalt sealing service has a valid license. Requirements depend on your local area so be sure to do your research. For example, some areas may require a general contractor license, a paving contractor license, or a speciality contractor license. Also, verify they’re bonded and insured. 

• Get several estimates: Get quotes from at least three different pros. Each quote should clearly explain how much sealant they’ll use, whether they’ll fill in cracks first, and if they’ll apply one or two coats.

• Read customer reviews: Look at what past customers say about how their asphalt surface looks a year or so later, not just right after sealing. Bad signs may include complaints about the sealer looking blotchy or washing away after a few rainy days.

• Look at their portfolios: Ask to see pictures of asphalt driveways, patios, etc. the pro has sealed at least six to 12 months ago. Look for even, black surfaces without streaks or peeling edges.

• Find out if they have warranties: A reputable pro should guarantee their workmanship and materials. Get the warranty terms in writing, and carefully read the fine print.

• Ask important questions: For example, find out how long you should keep cars off the driveway after they're done, how they will handle oil spots near your garage, and how long the project will take to complete.

For more tips, visit Thumbtack’s Smart Hiring page.

The average price of asphalt sealing nationwide ranges from around $485 to $1,600*, according to Thumbtack data.

There are several factors that may impact the cost of your project, including:

• Size of the area: More square footage often means a higher final bill. However, contractors usually may offer better rates per square foot for bigger jobs. Ask your pro to find out.

• Asphalt condition: Cracked or damaged surfaces may need repairs before sealing, typically adding to the total price. Smooth, undamaged surfaces typically cost less because they only need sealant.

• Surface preparation: Cleaning oil stains, dirt and leaves often takes extra time and labor. The dirtier your driveway, the more you will likely spend on prep work.  

• Type of sealant used: Your sealant choice matters. Budget sealants may save money now but they might wear out faster. High-quality sealants often cost more upfront but typically resist sun damage and stains better.

• Accessibility: Access issues can bump up the price of asphalt sealing. When standard equipment can’t easily reach the area, you’ll likely see this reflected in a higher estimate.  

Consider these tips to help you lower your asphalt sealing costs:

• Do basic prep work yourself: If your pro offers a discount if they don’t have to handle the basic cleanup, roll up your sleeves and tackle the cleaning before they arrive.

• Reseal the surface regularly: Consistent maintenance can pay off. Resealing your asphalt driveway or patio every two to three years usually costs far less than addressing severe damage later.

• Negotiate payment terms: Some contractors may offer discounts for booking during their slow season or bundling services. Some might even match competitors’ quotes if you ask.

*Data on file at Thumbtack. For a personalized cost estimate, request a quote from a professional.

Asphalt sealing (or sealcoating) is an essential step in protecting your asphalt surface, including driveways, parking lots, etc. Sealant application takes place after the asphalt has time to cure, so if you recently had your asphalt surface laid by a professional, it likely hasn’t been sealed yet. 

Sealing can extend the life of your surface (like a driveway) as it adds a layer of protection to the asphalt. Without sealcoating protection, regular traffic and the elements like snow, rain, wind, ice and sunlight can break down your surface faster, causing cracks and potholes. 

Hiring a local asphalt sealing service to seal or reseal your surface every three years or can help protect your investment and extend its life.

In most cases, a professional will take the following steps when sealcoating your asphalt: 

• Inspection: Sealing services usually come and inspect the asphalt surface you wish to have sealed. The pro will likely look for any issues that need to be addressed before sealing, such as stains and cracks, and measure the surface to ensure the right amount of sealant is on hand. They should also let you know whether your surface is a candidate for sealing, as overly damaged surfaces will more than likely need to be replaced.

• Estimate: Your contractor should provide an estimate of how much it will cost to have your asphalt sealed.

• Cleaning and application: This is when they’ll clear your asphalt surface of any dirt, debris, and stains to prepare it for the application process. Then, the sealant will be applied.

• Curing: Usually, the sealant must cure for at least 24 hours before anyone can walk or drive over it. Your contractor should provide specific instructions on when the surface is safe for traffic.

In most cases, it’s best to hire a professional for sealing or re-sealing asphalt. When deciding between DIY vs. hiring a professional, consider the following: 

• Tools and materials: Sealing asphalt requires various tools, including the sealant. You’ll need tools to clean the surface, such as an oil stain remover, broom, hose or air blower. You'll also likely need tools to apply the sealant, such as a brush or a squeegee for a smaller surface like a driveway. For a larger area like a parking lot, you’d need a spray system. Lastly, you often need a barrier to keep people off your asphalt while the sealant dries, such as caution tape, traffic cones, or a sawhorse.  

• Safety: Asphalt sealant is a chemical that must be handled cautiously when poured and applied. It must be safely sealed in the container until use and only opened in a well-ventilated area. Contact with skin or clothing may be dangerous. Any sealant that includes coal tar or petroleum distillates is often treated as hazardous material and must be disposed of accordingly. 

• Proper application: Applying sealant helps ensure your asphalt surface remains in good condition for longer than a non-sealed driveway. If you don’t apply it evenly and miss any spots or don't use enough of the product to seal it correctly, your surface could be at risk.

The best time to seal an asphalt driveway is usually during the warmer, mild months. Depending on where you live, this may be in the spring or fall.  Consult a local pro to help you determine the best time for sealing your asphalt surface. Also, avoid scheduling your sealing during extremely hot weather. This may cause your sealant to dry with an uneven finish. You should avoid sealing during the rainy season, too. Your sealant needs to dry and cure, and water can disrupt the process.