In terms of curb appeal, your home's driveway is a significant feature of the exterior. Proper maintenance, including regular sealcoating, can protect your driveway from damage and extend its life. Yet, homeowners often fail to follow the best practices for maintaining their driveways.
The Dangers of Not Getting Your Driveway Sealed
Failing to sealcoat your driveway can lead to deterioration and damage over time. Exposure to harsh weather conditions and vehicle traffic contribute to cracks forming on the asphalt surface. These cracks eventually widen due to freeze-thaw cycles during winter months or water infiltration. If left untreated, these cracks may become potholes that pose safety hazards for vehicles and pedestrians.
Sealcoating protects against moisture penetration into the pavement structure beneath the asphalt surface. Water infiltration can cause erosion of the pavement base materials leading to structural failures such as sinking or heaving pavement sections. Applying a high-quality sealcoat material on your driveway surface regularly helps prevent moisture-induced damage that may require costly repairs or even complete replacement down the road.
Choose The Right Sealcoat
There are various types of sealcoat materials available based on different formulations offering distinct benefits. Common types include coal tar emulsion-based, asphalt emulsion-based, and oil-based products mainly used for commercial applications. Choosing the right one for your driveway depends on climate, budget, and environmental impact.
Before selecting a sealcoat material, you should take several factors into account. Consider the local climate of your home. Some sealcoatings perform better in colder environments, while others fare better in hotter climates. Aesthetics are also essential since different sealcoats produce unique color variations and finished texture appearances.
Prepare The Pavement For Sealcoating
Before applying any sealcoat material on your driveway, it is vital to inspect the pavement surface thoroughly. This inspection helps identify any damage that needs repairing before sealing occurs. Failing to address these issues ahead of time may result in premature failure of the applied sealcoat or even worsen existing problems.
Cleaning is another crucial step in preparing your driveway for sealcoating application. Removing dirt, oil stains, and other contaminants ensures proper adhesion between the asphalt surface and chosen sealcoat material. You may need to use specialized cleaning agents designed specifically for asphalt driveways alongside pressure washing equipment or brooms with stiff bristles.
Hire Professionals To Apply Residential Sealant
While homeowners may be tempted to do the job themselves, there are several advantages to hiring experts to seal your driveway. Experienced technicians have access to professional-grade tools and equipment needed for proper application techniques ensuring uniform coverage without streaks or uneven spots that might occur during an amateur job. This ensures maximum performance and lifespan.
To find out more, contact residential sealcoating services today.
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