RESIDENTIAL SEALCOATING FAQ - CHICAGO
WHAT IS SEALCOATING?
Sealcoating is a process used to seal asphalt and prevent future damage to the asphalt surface by using a coal tar emulsion mixed with sand and other materials to provide a lasting topcoat on the surface that is designed to wear off overtime protecting your asphalt from premature wear and inevitable failure.
HOW IS SEALCOATING APPLIED?
Sealcoating can be applied in a number of different ways depending on the needs of the project. Often times a sealcoating application can be sprayed on the surface of the asphalt which allows for a very even coating and other times if necessary it can be brushed on. It really depends on the needs of the project.
HOW LONG DOES SEALCOATING LAST?
This is a tough question to answer. On average, a proper sealcoating application can last around 3 years sometimes longer however depending on how much wear and tear your asphalts surface takes you could need it once every year or two but that is pretty uncommon in a residential setting.
HOW LONG DOES SEALCOATING TAKE TO DRY?
Great question! Just like paint, sealcoating dry times vary based on humidity, heat, and other factors. It would be safe to say that you can typically walk on a sealcoated surface within the first 4-8 hours however more rigorous activities like driving on the asphalt are best to wait 24-48 hours after being sealcoated depending on what type of repairs were made.
CAN I JUST SEALCOAT MY ASPHALT OR DO I NEED TO REPAIR THE CRACKS?
This really depends on the size of the crack. Typically smaller hairline cracks can simply be coated over the top however larger cracks or cracks in areas more likely to receive more wear and tear, water, or other potential issues, should always be sealed. We do offer a hot rubber crack filling service as well which actually seeps into the cracks and bonds to the asphalt. It's the best way to repair a crack!
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO SEALCOAT YOUR ASPHALT?
Sealcoating should be applied only when temperatures are no lower than in the 50's or so. You do not want to do sealcoating when the temperatures are dipping down below freezing because it will not bond properly to your asphalt and will cool too quickly. This is why we typically seal coat between April and October roughly.