Sealcoating your asphalt driveway is a practical and proven way to extend its life. Sealcoating creates an extra protective layer over your pavement that prevents water from seeping into cracks and creating potholes, which can be costly to repair.
However, in order to ensure best results and enjoy the real benefits of sealcoating you need to ensure you get it done at the right time.
When Should Sealcoating be Done?
It is important for you to understand when sealcoating should be applied. Sealcoating must be done when your asphalt pavement shows signs of wear and tear, such as:
- Wear from cars, foot traffic, and bike tires
- Cracks in the pavement that should be filled with sealer before they develop into potholes
- Excessive dirt or gravel on the surface
The Best Time of Day for Sealcoating
Sealcoating should be applied when the temperature is at least 50 degrees. Hotter temperatures are better for applying a protective coating than cooler ones (especially when it comes to asphalt). The best time of day to sealcoat is in the early hours when it is sunny and hot. Even though sealcoating can be done at any time of day, it is important to note that the heat helps the sealant dry faster for the best results.
The Best Months for Sealcoating
Summer is the best time to sealcoat your driveway. From June to August, and even September, when the days are warm, sealcoating will last longer and stay more flexible.
You can sealcoat in other months, but you must ensure that the temperature does not go below 50 degrees and that no rain is expected in the next 24 hours. However, when it comes to drying, nothing can beat the sunny days of summer.
How Often Should You Sealcoat?
If you have installed a brand-new asphalt pavement, you should wait at least 6 months before sealcoating to allow the asphalt to cure properly. For subsequent applications, you should sealcoat every 2 – 3 years.
Proper sealcoating will protect and extend the life of your driveway, prevent oxidation due to UV rays, and also beautify the pavement.
Avoid Sealcoating If…
If rain is expected, it’s best to avoid sealcoating. Sealcoating must always be applied on a dry surface. A better choice would be for you to check the forecast and wait for an interval of time when there is no rain expected for at least a few days.
You must avoid sealcoating if the temperature is below 50 degrees or expected to go below 50 degrees in the next 24 hours. Sealcoating will not efficiently adhere and bond to the surface below 50 degrees. Applying sealer when it’s too cold can cause curling, peeling, or flaking of sealant.
And finally, the very best time to begin the seal coating process is when you find the right contractor for the job. Don’t risk your property or your money with an amateur!
If you reside in Sacramento and are looking for an experienced, reliable and well-equipped contractor for your sealcoating project, look no further than Action Asphalt. We offer fast service with convenient scheduling options, so there is never any reason to delay looking after your pavement. Reach out to us today to learn more about our expert sealcoating services.
