A common misconception about a new parking lot is that once installed, it can be left untouched until it is time for replacement. However, this is an extremely dangerous mistaken belief. Asphalt needs to be properly maintained to ensure it does its job and keeps your traffic safe while in the area.
One of the biggest maintenance items you can do for your pavement is to have it professionally sealcoated. Sealing your asphalt, whether your asphalt driveway, parking lot, or roadway, can help protect your investment and preserve an asset.
What is Sealcoating?
Asphalt is an incredibly durable surface, however over time, the binder is lost through aging and exposure to the elements. Sealcoating is the process of applying a thin coat of sealer that will replenish the binder and provide a necessary barrier to moisture, UV rays, chemicals, and salt.
How Often Should Asphalt Be Sealed?
The short answer to this answer is every 2 to 3 years. However, there are several factors that might require a sealant to be applied sooner or later. Depending on how much traffic your asphalt sees will certainly determine how often you will want sealcoating to be done. Additionally, if your roadway or parking lot has traffic that is heavy, as in weight, it might need to be sealed quicker than a driveway.
Other items that play a factor in how often asphalt should be sealed include:
- Weather Patterns
- Chemical Exposure
- Salt Application
- Repair Needs
Before sealant can be added to the asphalt, it is important to note that it needs to be in good working order. This includes completing necessary repairs and crack filling. Cracks need to be filled quickly upon discovering them to ensure they do not form into larger cracks and potholes. When left untouched, cracks can require extensive and expensive repairs.
Advantages of Asphalt Sealing
- Adds A Layer of Skid Resistance – Sealant adds a layer of tough and durable material that can help the surface be skid resistant. Creating a safe area for customers, employees, or family members can be extremely beneficial during times of heavy rain.
- Restores The Color – When a parking lot is laid, it is a rich, black color. As it ages and weathers, it will slowly lose this color. Adding a sealcoat to the top, this color can be restored for another few years.
- Extends Its Life – Sealing your asphalt and regular maintenance will extend the life of your pavement. By keeping water out of the asphalt and protecting it from further damage will certainly do so.
Are You In Need Of A Professional Sealcoating Company?
Protect your investment by hiring a professional sealcoating company! If you are located in the greater Charlotte, NC area, our team is here for you. We are will assess your pavement and provide you with a FREE estimate for all necessary work. Contact us today to schedule.
Toste Construction specializes in sealcoating and crack filling to ensure you and your customers have a smooth surface to drive on. We are your Mooresville asphalt and pavement maintenance company. Our services include asphalt sealcoating, striping, patching, pothole repair and crack filling for both residential and commercial projects throughout western North Carolina.