What is the purpose of sealcoating?
Sealcoating adds a protective layer to asphalt surfaces like driveways, shielding them from water, oil, and UV damage. Applying a professional seal can help prevent cracks and extend the pavement's lifespan — and it may save you money on future repairs.
How many years does sealcoating last?
A professionally applied sealcoat can potentially last two to five years. The actual lifespan depends on factors like climate, traffic, and maintenance practices. Working with a pro can often help ensure you get the most out of your new sealcoat and keep the underlying surface protected.
Can I apply sealcoating myself?
Yes, you can sealcoat your driveway yourself, but it's generally a messy and physically demanding job. Sealcoating requires careful surface preparation, the right tools, and a few days of dry weather to cure. If you'd rather avoid the hassle, you can find a local pro to handle the job for you.
How much does it cost to redo a concrete driveway?
Here are some examples of average costs:
The national average cost to hire a concrete specialist is $2,750, but that price can vary greatly depending on the work needed to repair and resurface your concrete driveway, the square footage of the project, current costs of concrete, and regional labor rates.
Driveway contractors average $2-$3 per square foot to smooth and resurface your asphalt driveway.
Resurfacing concrete driveways averages $3-$10 per square foot. Pricing can depend on repairs needed, project size and geographic location.
Nationally, the average cost for resurfacing a 500-square-foot driveway ranges from $2,000 to $5,000.
Sealant for a concrete drive can cost $20-$80 per gallon.
Sealant for an asphalt drive averages 25 cents per square foot.
What type of maintenance does a fresh sealcoat require?
Your new sealcoat typically needs regular cleaning to remove dirt, debris, and oil spills. Spray down the surface to remove any spills promptly, and use a light pressure wash every month or so to keep it clean. You should also plan to reapply the coating every two to four years to maintain its protective layer. Inspecting for and filling any new cracks as they appear will also extend the life of your asphalt.
What surfaces can benefit from sealcoating?
Sealcoating is designed to protect all kinds of asphalt surfaces from water, oil, and UV rays, including:
Asphalt driveways: Helps prevent cracks, fading, and water damage.
Parking lots: Reduces wear from traffic, oil leaks, and weather exposure.
Private roads: Protects against oxidation and surface deterioration.
Playgrounds and courts: Maintains smoothness and appearance on asphalt-based surfaces.
Sealcoating is not typically used on concrete. An experienced pro can usually help explain the benefits of sealcoating for your specific surface.
What are the signs that my asphalt needs sealcoating?
Common signs that indicate it’s time to hire a sealcoating pro include:
Fading color: If your black asphalt has turned a dull gray, it may be oxidizing from sun exposure and losing its protective oils.
Small cracks: Look for networks of fine cracks, sometimes called “alligator cracks,” forming on the surface. Sealing them early may prevent them from turning into large potholes.
Stains: Oil, gas, and other chemical spills that have soaked into the pavement and won’t wash away.
Loose gravel or sand: A rough, sandy texture means the binder that holds the asphalt together is breaking down.
Poor water runoff: When rainwater soaks into the pavement instead of beading up, it means the surface is no longer waterproof and is vulnerable to water damage.
What factors affect the cost of sealcoating?
There are several factors that might impact the cost of this project, including:
Project size and shape: A larger or more complex area, such as a long or curved driveway, will naturally require more materials and labor.
Asphalt condition: Pros may need to fill cracks, patch potholes, or treat oil spots before they can apply the sealant, which can affect the final price.
Amount of prep work: Before sealing, the surface needs to be completely clean. A driveway that requires extensive power washing or debris removal will take more time to prepare.
Type of sealant: There are different grades and types of sealcoating products. A higher-quality sealant may cost more up front but can offer better durability and longer-lasting protection.
Number of coats: While one coat is standard for maintenance, older or more porous asphalt might need a second coat for proper coverage.
How do I hire a sealcoating professional?
When looking for a professional sealcoater, make sure you complete the following steps:
Verify their license and insurance: Most sealcoating professionals should have general liability insurance. Licensing requirements vary by region, so it’s a good idea to check your local rules.
Get several estimates: A proper written estimate should detail the total square footage, all prep work like cleaning and crack filling, the type of sealer used, the number of coats, and a final price for labor and materials.
Read their reviews: Look for comments that mention thorough prep work, a clean job site, and a durable finish. Red flags can include complaints about the coat peeling or washing away too soon, watered-down materials, or messy application.
Look at their portfolios: Check their past work for a smooth, uniform black finish with clean edges. Avoid pros whose work looks streaky, blotchy, or leaves overspray on surrounding areas like sidewalks or garage doors.
Find out if they have warranties: Many pros offer a warranty that covers issues with their workmanship, such as premature flaking or peeling, for a certain period. This typically won’t cover damage you cause, like from snowplows or chemical spills.
Ask important questions: Before you hire, ask questions like, “What type of sealer do you use?,” “What does your surface preparation process include?,” and “How long do I need to stay off the driveway after it’s sealed?”