A tar-based sealer is typically applied at the conclusion of paving a driveway or patio. A sealant provides additional protection to fresh asphalt. It aids with extending the life of pavement, plus may improve the aesthetics of pavement. 

Sealer Products And Equipment

A tar-based product contains coal, water, and an emulsifier. Some products may contain additives that will thicken a sealant. A sealant is a product that a paving contractor will roll onto the fresh pavement. The pavement must be adequately protected while it is curing. A contractor will typically schedule a pavement installation during dry seasons. Precipitation could alter the chemical makeup of fresh asphalt.

During the curing process, a contractor may use testing equipment to determine when the pavement is ready for the final sealant. Sealant products come in buckets. A bucket of sealant will typically be prepped onsite.

A large paving project may necessitate the use of a steam roller. This type of machine is operated by a driver. As the machine begins moving across the pavement, it smooths down the sealant that is being added over the pavement. Before sealant is applied, a consumer will have the opportunity to view various sealant shades. Sealants can deepen the color of fresh asphalt.

Maintenance Needs

Sealant is a product that can withstand heavy usage. It will, however, eventually break down. A contractor will determine how long a customer should wait, prior to having the sealant inspected and replaced. If webbing or small holes form in the top layer of a paved surface, a contractor may need to break down the top layer and use some patching materials to repair the pavement.

A sealant is best equipped to be applied to an asphalt surface that is smooth. If heavy usage and inclement weather damages the asphalt, a property owner may prefer to have the pavement resurfaced. Resurfacing pavement involves grinding down the top layer of the pavement. The lower layers of the pavement may remain intact. A client may be advised to have a fresh coat of asphalt applied to the surface of the pavement.

If the top layer is the only thing being replaced, the resurfacing and drying processes may not take long to conduct. After the fresh asphalt dries, it is time for the sealant to be applied. A contractor will use a color-matching process. They will use the characteristics of the original pavement and sealer to select a sealant product that is similar to the initial coat.

Learn more about sealcoating.