How does sealcoating help?

• Sealcoating seals the asphalt pavement, preventing the oxidation and erosion of the top layer of asphalt
• On older pavements sealcoating replaces fine particles lost from the asphalt surface due to oxidation
• Sealcoating seals the small cracks that will turn into larger cracks, which prevents water from seeping down to the base material
• Sealcoating helps protect the asphalt from the sun as well as the harmful effects of chemical spills such as oil and gasoline
• Sealcoating provides an attractive black surface that is ideal for painting lines and other markings
• Sealcoating cost pennies per square foot compared to the dollars needed to repair or replace the damaged asphalt
• Generally you should wait a few months before sealing new pavement to allow it time to cure. The Asphalt Sealcoat Manufacturers Association recommends waiting 6-12 months before sealcoating new pavement
• After a surface has been sealed it should be re-sealed every 2-4 years or as needed. A routine inspection by a qualified professional is necessary. Between re-sealings small cracks should be filled to assure protection. A regular maintenance program is prudent
• Seal-Tite, the Asphalt Institute, (www.asphaltinstitute.org) and the Asphalt Sealcoat Manufacturers Association, (www.sealcoatmfg.org) do not recommend the use of coal tar sealers for various reasons. Coal tar adds nothing back to the asphalt, it cracks and is carcinogenic. Asphalt sealers add back some of the original properties lost due to oxidation, they do not crack and are not carcinogenic