Potholes and alligator cracks are unwelcomed guests on any asphalt surface. No driver, homeowner, or business owner wants to see them. They are an eyesore and can disrupt traffic flow and damage vehicles. Potholes are also a safety hazard, posing a trip and fall risk to pedestrians.
Among the asphalt maintenance methods, sealcoating is perhaps the best at preventing or delaying deterioration. Sealcoating involves applying a protective layer of material to the asphalt surface. This layer helps protect against weather damage, UV rays, and oil or gas spills.
However, seal coating is not a cure-all. Inevitable blunders can occur during the process, doing more harm than good. Here are some seal coating blunders to avoid:
Applying Excess Sealer:
The advantages of a sealer can tempt you to go with the ‘the more, the better’ approach but resist the urge. Applying too much sealer will cause it to pool and puddle on the asphalt surface. It can result in a harmful build-up of chemicals, leading to premature cracking.
Failing to Prepare the Surface:
The haste to get the job done quickly can lead to shortcuts, but there are none for seal coating. The surface must be cleaned entirely before you start the process. Any dirt, dust, or debris will affect the sealer’s ability to adhere properly.
If the surface has cracks, you must fill and repair them before seal coating can begin.
Not Using the Right Equipment:
Sealcoating is a job that requires specific equipment if you want to do it right. A squeegee is not going to cut it (pun intended). It would help if you had a sprayer to apply the sealer evenly and in the right amount.
Hiring a professional contractor who has the right tools and experience to seal coat your residential driveway or business’s parking lot is a better choice. They know how to operate and have access to specialized equipment like a pressurized sprayer.
Not Letting the Sealer Dry:
This seems obvious, yet many people try to drive on their asphalt too soon after seal coating. The sealer needs time to dry and cure properly. Otherwise, it will just peel right off. Give it at least 24 hours before driving or walking on it.
Additionally, if you live in an area with many trees, you’ll want to give it even more time to dry. Sap and other debris from the trees can stick to the sealer while still wet and cause premature peeling.
Sealcoating in Direct Sunlight:
It is a common mistake because people think the hotter the weather, the faster the sealer will dry. But direct sunlight can cause the sealer to overheat and bubble up. It’s best to apply sealer in cooler temperatures, in the shade, or the evening.
Rain is another factor you’ll need to consider when seal coating. If there’s a prediction for rain in the next 24-48 hours, it’s best to reschedule your seal coating project.
Conclusion:
Garden State Paving & Seal Coating, LLC, serving Marlton, NJ, offers residential and commercial seal coating services.
If you’re looking for a reliable, experienced team to care for your graying asphalt surface, get a free quote from us today!
