If you own an asphalt driveway or parking lot, you’ve probably heard the term “sealcoating” at one point or another. Sealcoating is the process of applying a protective coating of sealer to an asphalt surface. This sealer gives the pavement a glossy appearance and protects it against the elements.
But even though sealcoating is a common process—countless homeowners and business owners sealcoat their pavement each year—few people truly understand how sealcoating works. As such, there are many misconceptions about the sealcoating process. Luckily, we’re here to debunk these unfounded myths. Here are some of the most common misconceptions about asphalt sealcoating and what makes them false.
Unfortunately, sealer isn’t some magical substance that can poof away cracks and potholes. You need to patch any existing cracks in the pavement before you can sealcoat it. Sealcoating won’t fix existing cracks, nor will it stop existing cracks from worsening.
That’s because sealcoating is a preventative measure, not a remedial measure. The sealer used during the sealcoating process fills the pores in asphalt surfaces. This waterproofs the pavement. It also protects it from harsh UV rays and substances other than water, such as chemical spills from cars and trucks.
The next common misconception about asphalt sealcoating is that it’s only done for aesthetic purposes. A fresh coat of sealer can make your driveway or parking lot look sheeny and brand-new. But unmatched aesthetics isn’t the only advantage that sealcoating offers. Sealcoating comes with cosmetic benefits, but it also comes with numerous functional benefits. It protects your pavement against oxidation and water penetration, which are two of the leading causes of damage to asphalt pavement.
With the right supplies and plenty of time and dedication, you can DIY just about anything. But just because you can doesn’t mean you should. Sealcoating is a task that’s best left to professionals. Why? Because professionals have years of expertise under their belts. They also have access to top-notch equipment and supplies that the general public doesn’t, including sealcoating machines.
Most homeowners and business owners have their pavement sealcoated because they want to protect it or make it look nicer. But if your DIY project goes wrong, you could make the pavement more susceptible to damage and more worn-down instead of the opposite.
Need sealcoating equipment for your sealcoating business? NAC Supply carries everything you need to maintain asphalt surfaces, from crack fillers to sealers. Come and shop our full line of asphalt maintenance equipment and supplies today!
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