Driveway Sealcoating 101: Reasons, Method, and Timing

If you have an asphalt driveway here in South Jersey, sealcoating is not a service you do without. Asphalt is a tough and versatile paving material, but it’s not immune to damage. Over time, exposure to the elements and non-stop wear can and will take a toll. Sealcoating in Bridgeton NJ and other nearby communities helps protect your asphalt driveway from premature wear and deterioration. In this driveway sealcoating 101 blog, you’ll learn more about this critical service and how experts perform it.

Driveway Sealcoating 101: What Is Asphalt Sealing?

Driveway sealcoating is a form of preventative maintenance. It’s not a catch-all solution to damage. Rather, it’s a way to prevent exposure-related damage. When done regularly, asphalt sealing protects against many harmful elements, including harsh UV rays from the sun, rainfall, leaking vehicle fluids, and corrosive chemicals.

Without sealing, asphalt can quickly encounter issues. Exposure to the elements can cause the asphalt binders to oxidize. The surface then becomes brittle and more prone to cracking. Once cracks develop, water can penetrate the surface, erode the foundation layers, and more. Before you know it, you’ll have potholes, structural integrity problems, and costly damage.

Sealcoating prevents all that. Some view asphalt sealcoating costs as yet another expense, but it’s actually an investment in your driveway’s long-term care.

What Are the Benefits of Sealcoating in Bridgeton NJ?

Covering driveway sealing costs gives you more than you might realize. In addition to preventing costly damage, you can gain the following benefits:

  • Cost Savings: Driveway sealcoating costs are a small price to pay for peace of mind. Regular sealing helps safeguard your asphalt driveway from damage, so you’ll spend less on repairs and reconstruction. Plus, maintenance often becomes easier and more cost-effective moving forward.
  • Better Longevity: Top-quality driveway sealers will provide great, long-term protection. Sealers prevent early degradation, helping your asphalt driveway last for decades before needing reconstruction.
  • Enhanced Curb Appeal: Sealcoating can also transform your South Jersey asphalt driveway. Premium driveway sealers restore your pavement’s glossy black finish, giving it a like-new look that perfectly complements any home style and landscaping.
  • Increased Safety: With fewer repair issues comes increased safety. Even shallow cracks can become tripping hazards. A well-protected driveway is a safe one, helping prevent injuries for you, your family, and visitors.

How Do Driveway Sealcoating Companies Protect Asphalt Paving?

Asphalt sealing is a multi-step process that begins with a thorough inspection. Before applying the driveway sealer, teams will assess your pavement. If your South Jersey asphalt driveway has any deep cracks, potholes, or surface defects, you must address those issues before sealing. Sealcoating should be the final step in your larger maintenance routine.

Next comes surface prep. Driveway sealers will only bond to clean, dry pavement. Teams will pick up trash, sweep away dirt, and clean up any overgrown vegetation. If necessary, they may also wash your asphalt driveway and apply a pretreatment solution to stains.

Once ready, driveway sealcoating companies will apply several thin coats of sealer using sprayers and squeegees. Most driveways need at least two coats. While some assume that multiple coats increase driveway sealcoating costs, that extra coverage is necessary to maximize protection and create a smooth, uniform finish.

After application, driveway sealcoating companies will allow the sealer to cure for up to 48 hours. During that time, all pedestrian and vehicle traffic must remain off your South Jersey asphalt driveway. The curing process is slow and steady, but it ensures a strong bond and optimal protection.

How Much Does Driveway Sealing Cost?

Driveway sealing costs vary. Contractors will consider many factors when quoting a sealing project, including:

  • Square Footage
  • Asphalt Age and Condition
  • Driveway Sealer Quality
  • Coverage Requirements

The good news is that asphalt sealing is relatively affordable. Driveway sealcoating costs are a necessary investment that can lead to long-lasting beauty, impressive longevity, and much-needed protection.

Driveway Sealcoating 101: How Often Does Asphalt Need Sealcoating?

Driveway sealcoating companies recommend service every two or three years. Some newer South Jersey asphalt driveways may only require sealing every three to five years, but most will need attention every few years for the best long-term results.

Asphalt’s needs change as it evolves, so the best thing you can do is contact experts for periodic inspections. They can help you determine what’s right for your asphalt driveway.

When Is the Best Time to Sealcoat a South Jersey Asphalt Driveway?

Sealcoating in Bridgeton NJ is best done when the weather is warm and dry. The busy season for driveway sealcoating companies runs from late spring to fall. Because driveway sealers cure by evaporation, contractors must be mindful of conditions during application and the curing days that follow.

Experts typically recommend temperatures of around 70 degrees Fahrenheit, humidity levels below 50 percent, stable wind speeds of 3 to 5 MPH, and no chance of rain. It’s possible to perform sealcoating when temperatures are as low as 50 degrees, but anything cooler could lead to curing problems.

Ready to give your South Jersey asphalt driveway the attention it needs? JP Storey Contracting has you covered. With decades of experience and a steadfast commitment to quality, you can count on us to get it right while exceeding expectations.

In addition to sealcoating, we offer crack repairs, general repairs, parking lot striping, ongoing maintenance, and more. We also offer free quotes. You can get yours by calling JP Storey Contracting at (856) 353-8880. If you prefer, you can also reach the team using our online form or by emailing jpstoreycontracting@gmail.com.