Rochester NY Sealcoating is a cost-effective way to extend the life of asphalt driveways and parking lots. It also helps to keep your property looking great!
Blacktop pavement can become damaged by rain, sun’s UV rays, salts, gasoline, motor oil, and other chemicals. It can also degrade and oxidize quickly. Sealcoating protects and reinforces the asphalt binder and helps to prevent damage that causes potholes.
When properly applied, seal coat provides a layer of protection for asphalt surfaces from water, oil, sun’s UV rays and other oxidizing agents. This prevents the natural degrading of bitumen and keeps it supple, flexible, strong and looking beautiful. It also helps prevent cracks, craters and crumbles in the asphalt surface.
The process of applying sealcoat is very labor intensive and requires special skills and equipment. A professional asphalt paving contractor will have access to the best products, equipment and trained employees to perform the work quickly, efficiently and accurately. They will be able to apply the liquid asphalt using a spray system for quick and even coverage or by brush and squeegee for nooks and crannies.
When not treated in a timely manner, the cracks and crevices in your asphalt driveway or parking lot can expand and widen over time. These holes can then allow water, dirt and other materials to seep in and cause further damage. Sealcoating fills these small cracks and holes, preventing further damage and prolonging the life of your asphalt driveway or parking lot.
Before a new layer of sealcoat is applied, the paved surface will be cleaned thoroughly. Any oil and grease spots are removed with soapy water or commercial cleaners before a new layer of sealant is applied. Before a sealer is applied, the temperature should be above 50 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure that it bonds and cures correctly.
The final step is to let the sealant dry completely. This can take up to a day. It is important to avoid walking, driving or parking on the paved surface during this time.
Regularly scheduled asphalt paving sealcoating is the most effective way to protect your investment and extend the life of your asphalt driveway or parking lot. When combined with a proper maintenance plan that includes routine inspections and minor crack repair, it can double or triple the lifespan of your pavement. It is recommended that your driveway or parking lot be resealed every two to three years for normal use. In some cases, harsh weather conditions or excessive traffic may cause it to need resealing more frequently.
Keeps It Looking Great
Seal coating is more than just an aesthetic addition to your asphalt driveway or parking lot. It acts as a protective layer that prevents the damaging effects of water, sun, chemicals and other environmental contaminants. Unlike asphalt paving, which requires the removal of existing pavement and installation of new material, a sealcoat is a liquid mixture that can be applied to the entire surface. This means it can be done in a fraction of the time and cost of traditional paving methods.
The most significant benefit of sealcoating is that it prevents cracking. Without this protective barrier, a crack in your asphalt can spread and deepen over time, leading to severe damage that may require the entire removal of the asphalt surface. Sealcoating creates a hard shell that protects the asphalt from weather conditions like extreme heat and cold, snow, salt, ice and corrosive chemicals.
It also keeps your driveway or parking lot looking fresh and new. A sealcoat can rejuvenate the look of your old or worn asphalt, making it appear blacker and more vibrant. It can also make the surface easier to sweep, as dirt and other debris won’t be able to sink into the cracks or holes as easily.
Another important benefit of a proper sealcoat is that it protects against the harmful effects of UV radiation. Over time, UV rays can break down the carbon bonds that keep asphalt pavement dark and in good condition. As these bonds break down, the pavement begins to fade and turn gray. Keeping up with your sealcoat service can help to avoid this process and keep your parking lot or driveway in great shape for years to come.
When the time comes to sell your property, a well maintained driveway or parking lot will give potential buyers a positive impression of your home or business and will add to its overall value. Aside from that, a fresh and clean asphalt driveway or parking lot looks attractive and helps to make a good first impression on anyone who visits your property.
If you’re thinking of selling your property, it’s a good idea to have a professional apply a sealcoat to your asphalt surfaces at least once every other year. This is the best way to protect your asphalt from future damages and ensure that it will remain in pristine condition for as long as possible.
Increases Your Property Value
A driveway or parking lot adorned in cracks, potholes, and discoloration can leave a negative first impression on visitors and passersby. By contrast, a smooth asphalt surface exudes an impression of meticulous care and attention to detail that boosts curb appeal and elevates property value. For homeowners mulling over a potential sale or tenants in search of an ideal office space, this is a significant perk worth trumpeting.
Moreover, a sealcoated surface enhances cleanliness, as its smooth, non-porous characteristic averts water accumulation and facilitates swift cleaning. This facilitates the stain-free maintenance of a clean property, whether it is from oil spills, food and beverage stains, or accumulated dirt and dust.
As a result, the long-term financial gains of residential sealcoating substantiate the initial investment. Forestalling expensive future repairs, sustaining the longevity of the asphalt surface, and boosting aesthetics all yield fiscal savings, bolstering resale value.
From a real estate perspective, prospective buyers gravitate towards properties with low maintenance costs and effortless upkeep. A well-maintained driveway and parking lot, complemented by a professional sealcoating job, delivers on this promise, enticing prospective tenants and fostering a heightened sense of value.
Whether to engage professionals or embark on a DIY sealcoating project is a personal decision that depends on one’s comfort level and time commitment. However, understanding the fundamentals of this pivotal home maintenance service and recognizing its direct influence on property value can help homeowners and business owners weigh their options. To this end, we will compare the benefits and drawbacks of engaging professionals versus undertaking the project independently. We will also provide insights on maximizing the return on your sealcoating investment through effective application.
Saves You Money
Whether you’re a property manager, facility director, or homeowner, sealcoating is an excellent way to extend the lifespan of your asphalt surfaces. In the long run, it saves you money by reducing repair and maintenance costs and improving your pavement’s overall appearance and safety. In addition, a well-maintained surface reduces the risk of slip and fall accidents on your property, which could lead to costly lawsuits and insurance claims.
By regularly applying a protective layer of sealant to your asphalt, you can significantly reduce the amount of time it takes for a major resurfacing project to be necessary. It’s typically recommended to have your asphalt driveway or parking lot sealed every other year or two, but if you can remember to do it more frequently, this would be ideal for the longevity of your pavement.
If you choose to get your pavement professionally sealcoated, it’s important to hire a contractor that uses only quality materials. Low-quality sealants may only last for a few months before they need to be replaced, and can leave your surface looking patchy and unattractive. The best asphalt sealcoats contain a variety of additives that improve the quality of the finished product, and can help to protect against damage caused by UV rays, cold temperatures, water, car fluids, and automotive chemicals.
Another great advantage of getting your asphalt sealcoated is that it’s significantly easier to clean and maintain than untreated surfaces. Sweeping, snow removal, and even washing your vehicle becomes a much simpler process on a smooth, sealed surface. This can dramatically reduce the costs associated with keeping your property maintained, and can make a big difference in your bottom line.
When it comes to the actual cost of sealcoating, many people are surprised to find that it is actually quite affordable. The average cost of asphalt sealcoating is only about 14 cents per square foot, which makes it a very worthwhile investment.
It’s also worth noting that a properly maintained asphalt surface can increase your property value by up to 30%. This is because a new coat of sealant can refresh the look of your property, which can attract more visitors and potential buyers.
