Asphalt is a low-cost and long-lasting construction material. When it comes to driveways and public road construction, it is a preferred option.
Properly maintained, your driveway will last many years. Regular inspection of asphalt for cracks is an excellent preventive maintenance option. Though asphalt’s durability is one of its strengths, it is still vulnerable. Asphalt can be damaged by different elements when exposed and used as a driveway.
Applying an asphalt sealcoat is one method of preserving your asphalt driveway from harm. Regular sealing gives asphalt the extra protection it needs to resist deterioration and lasts longer.
The question is: “Is sealing asphalt driveways necessary?” This article will explain the benefits of sealing driveways. Sit back and read carefully.
Is Sealing an Asphalt Driveway Necessary?
It is a resounding Yes. It is a necessity because you need to protect your investment. If you allow your asphalt to degrade and crack, you run the danger of causing damage to your foundation. Seal coating will serve its intended purpose of protecting your driveway while also providing it with a long-lasting and attractive appearance.
Here are some of the benefits you will get when you apply sealcoat to asphalt driveways:
Asphalt Sealing Serves As Protective Layer
To extend the life of your driveway, you can apply an asphalt sealer. Regularly sealcoating your driveway adds a protective layer that helps to prevent damage from UV rays, oil spills, and natural elements like rain and snow. The sealant acts as a waterproofing agent and prevents water and moisture from getting into the foundation.
Asphalt sealing should be done every two to three years to ensure that it can endure high traffic without being damaged. A smoother and cleaner pavement will result from the sealing process, and it will last for many years.
Increases Durability
Asphalt driveways are subject to both the elements and substances like grease or motor oil. Motor oil and gasoline would not only discolor the pavement, but they would also react with the petroleum binder, causing rapid degradation. They can cause cracking by causing damage to the asphalt bindings.
Sealcoat is required to keep your asphalt driveway from becoming crumbly, dry, and prone to cracking and collapsing due to weather exposure. It also protects against oxidizing and harmful chemicals that may damage asphalt driveways. It also helps to keep the binder flexible and malleable, allowing it to endure for a more extended period.
Enhances Aesthetics
Asphalt sealcoat transforms your driveway and brings back its attractive dark color. You will also need to restripe the driveway after sealing. It will increase the visual appeal of your newly sealed driveway.
Your customers and guests will not be impressed by a driveway that is damaged. Although it may seem simple, you will attract more tenants by repairing your asphalt pavement. Sometimes first impressions are the most lasting. Sealcoating ensures that asphalt will not crack because the aggregates have been fixed.
Reduces Oxidation
Asphalt loses oil as oxidation occurs, making it more challenging to maintain. The asphalt will continue to dry, especially when there is heavy traffic. Cracks can form when this happens. If you don’t fix it, water can seep into your pavement foundation and cause further damage. You may end up with tiny holes or even cracks, which can be very costly to fix.
Sealcoating is the most effective method to slow down the oxidation process. It provides extra protection from damaging rays. Because sealcoating reduces oxidation and cracking, potholes are considerably less prone to develop, extending the life of your roadways while keeping them safe.
Is Cost-Effective
You can have a driveway that lasts for many years by sealing it every few years. It will save you a lot of money and time. The average cost of installing new asphalt is between $1.50 to $2.00 per square foot. It does not include line striping or cur installation. Additionally, sealcoating is available at the cost of $0.15 to $0.25 per square foot.
With regular sealing, you may lower the expense of repairs while also extending the life of your pavement. Sealing should be done every few years or as required.
Installing an asphalt driveway is a wise decision, and sealcoating it is even a more brilliant move. If you plan to have your driveway paved with asphalt or want to sealcoat it, you need first to consult an expert in this industry. A-Rock Asphalt Services has proven its reliable service and high-quality output for many years. Contact us today to learn more.