FAQ

How often should I sealcoat my asphalt driveway or parking lot?

There a several factors to consider when answering this question. It is recommended to have new asphalt sealcoated approximately 1 year after installation. Weather, and the amount of traffic flow seem to affect the asphalt the most. The general rule of thumb is to sealcoat asphalt every 2-3 years.

What is the difference between asphalt paving and asphalt sealcoating?

Asphalt sealer is a cold liquid that is applied, typically a year after asphalt is installed. The purpose of asphalt sealcoating is to extend the life of asphalt. Streets and highways are not sealcoated, but it is highly recommended for driveways and parking lots. Asphalt is a mix of gravel, sand, and tar. It is put down evenly in 2 inch layers and then compacted. Asphalt is what streets, highways, parking lots, and driveways are made of.

What are some other names for asphalt sealcoating and asphalt?

Other examples of names for asphalt sealcoating include but are not limited to driveway sealant, asphalt sealant, asphalt coating, coal tar. Asphalt (different from asphalt sealer) is sometimes called blacktop or pavement.

How is your sealer mixed?

Our sealer is delivered to our shop in bulk form, directly from the Sealmaster plant in Sandusky, OH. We then add sand, water, and additives as recommended by our distributor to strengthen the sealer. This is very important step that effects the quality of the sealer. When not properly mixed Asphalt Sealer will fade or fail shortly after it’s applied. Some asphalt contractors will water down their sealer to increase their profit. WE NEVER WATER DOWN OUR ASPHALT SEALER!

How do you clean the asphalt before applying the sealer?

First, all vegetation (grass/weeds) is removed from the cracks and edges of the asphalt. Then, we use wire brooms and industrial blowers to remove all dirt/debris from the asphalt surface. We then apply a spot primer to fuel/oil stains.

How do you apply the asphalt sealer?

There are two methods of applying asphalt sealer. One method is to use a brush to spread and smooth out the sealer across the asphalt. We use this method for all of our residential driveways, and recommend this method the first time asphalt is being sealcoated. For large parking lots we recommend the other method which is using compressed air to spray the sealer on the asphalt.

How long do I wait before I can drive on sealcoated asphalt?

We recommend waiting 48 hours which allows the sealer to cure properly and reduces the amount of tire marks. We work with all business owners to ensure that their customers still have full access to their business when their parking lots are being sealcoated.

Will I have to close my business when my asphalt parking lot is being sealcoated?

No. We work with business owners' schedules to ensure that they can stay open. We can complete large lots in sections to ensure there is still available parking. We also work holidays and weekends when most businesses are closed.

What do you use to fill cracks in asphalt?

We use two kinds of crack filler (Hot pour and trowel grade). We use a "hot pour" crack filler for all commercial properties. The crack filler is applied while hot and banded to ensure adhesion. For residential driveways, we use a "trowel grade" crack filler which is a thick, cold crack filler that is applied and banded to ensure adhesion. In both cases, asphalt sealer is applied after the crack filler has been installed.

How do you treat oil/fuel stains?

We use a spot primer to treat oil/fuel stains which helps prevent the stains from returning to the surface after sealcoating.

Is cold patch a good option for damaged areas in my asphalt?

While cold patch is much less expensive, we recommend it as a temporary fix.

When will my parking lot be striped?

Typically, your lot will be striped the evening of or first thing the following morning upon completing the sealcoating.

Will the line striping meet all DOT standards?

With striping we will meet DOT standards and regulations.