What is Sealcoating?

Sealcoat or pavement sealer is a protective coating for asphalt-based pavements. Sealcoat is much like paint used to protect wood from the environment. Since asphalt pavements are porous, a sealcoat or pavement sealer is utilized in order to shed water and other chemicals from the deterioration of the asphalt pavement. This is especially important in those areas that are subject to a freeze/thaw cycle. Petroleum-based chemicals from automobiles are another source of pavement deterioration. Example of these automobile chemicals include gasoline, motor oil, and engine coolant just to name a few.

Sealcoating may also reduce the friction or anti-skid properties associated with the exposed aggregates in asphalt.

Not all pavement sealcoat are created equal. For example, refined tar-based sealer offers the best protecting against water penetration and chemical resistance. Asphalt-based sealer typically offers poor protection against environmental chemical and harsher climates (salt water). Petroleum-based sealer offer protection against water and chemicals somewhere between the other two sealers. Another difference between coatings is in terms of wear. Again, refined tar-based sealer offers the best wear characteristics (typically 3–5 years) while asphalt-based sealer may last 1–3 years. Petroleum-based sealer falls between refined tar and asphalt.

One perceived detriment associated with pavement sealer is its discharge to the environment after it is abraded from the surface of the pavement. Some states in North America have banned the use of coal tar–based sealants primarily based on United States Geological Survey studies. The industry group that represents sealcoat manufacturers has performed numerous research and reviews of the USGS and have found it to be erroneous, biased (citation and white hat, to name a few) and too generalized in order to draw the conclusions they claim.

There are primarily three types of pavement sealers. They are commonly known as refined tar-based (coal tar based), asphalt-based, and petroleum-based. All three have their advantages but are typically chosen by the contractors’ preference unless otherwise specified.

Prior to application the surface must be completely clean and dry using sweeping methods and/or blowers. If the surface is not clean and dry, then poor adhesion will result. Pavement sealers are applied with either pressurized spray equipment, or self-propelled squeegee machines or by hand with a squeegee. Equipment must have continuous agitation to maintain consistency of the sealcoat mix. The process is typically a two-coat application which requires 24 to 48 hours of curing before vehicles can be allowed back on the surface. Once the surface is properly prepared, then properly mixed sealer will be applied at about 60 square feet per gallon per coat.

Four Areas of Asphalt Maintenance

When looking at asphalt maintenance it can be divided into four areas. The primary cause of asphalt failing is the penetration of water into the asphalt base. Overtime, it will become brittle and dry with the aggregate beginning to wear away and cause cracks that will let water penetrate into the base of the pavement. When the water seeps into the crack it causes the base material to move and settle. This leads to the surface cracking in a pattern that is grid-like When the payment has reached this stage there are only two options, which are replace the old asphalt or patch repair it.

Patch repair

It deals with areas that are isolated. Using a backhoe and saw-cutting the pavement is removed. They can also use a grinding machine. Once the old asphalt is removed, it is replaced with new asphalt. The removal method determines the amount that is removed. The removal depth should be equal to one point five times the original thickness of the asphalt. You may also have to replace the base-rock to match the adjacent areas to allow for a base support that is uniform. The amount of removal should be extended twelve inches past the area that failed.

Asphalt overlay

This asphalt maintenance is affordable and provides a new wearing surface. When dealing with asphalt overlay there are certain factor you need to be aware of, which include:

• Overlay thickness-it should be a maximum of two point five inches with a minimum of one point five inches
• Smooth transitions-when you are considering where to grind the existing pavement down remember not to grind down the overlay section to match the existing structure. If you do this could weaken the overlays strength. They will grind the existing payment down to where they meet flush together to prevent this.

Inlay and pulverize in place

Both of these areas of asphalt maintenance are accomplished using a milling machine. During the process of inlay, it removes a depth of the existing asphalt, which is many times a previous overlay. This will let the contractors to put the asphalt back to the pre-inlay elevation. The method of pulverize-in-place will reduce all of the asphalt to particles that are base-rock size.

Seal coating

This is an important part for extending the life of the asphalt and it should not be overlooked. Seal coating is a mixture of mineral fibers, emulsified asphalt, and water along with other admixtures. This will seal the top layer of asphalt to prevent water from penetrating the pavement surface and protecting the top layer from wear from sun exposure and oxidation. It is what gives the asphalt its even black surface.

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Top Signs You Need a Seal Coat for Your Driveway

If you have an asphalt driveway, it has an estimated average lifespan of 15-25 years when maintained properly. But with constant exposure to the elements, such as sun, wind, salt, heat and cold, the asphalt can deteriorate quickly.

Investing in a seal coat will increase the lifespan of a paved driveway or parking lot by acting as a flexible barrier coating, shielding the asphalt from erosive factors. A seal coat on your driveway prevents essential oils in the asphalt from evaporating over time - causing the asphalt to become dry and brittle through oxidation. When the asphalt is too dry, it will crack and allow water to penetrate the surface of the driveway, creating even more erosion.

To avoid a very costly repair, you should have cracks repaired before they invade a large area of the pavement. If you're unsure if you need a seal coat repair on your driveway or parking lot, check for any of the signs below:

• Discoloration of asphalt (fades from black to gray)
• Surface cracking that appears like peeling paint
• Hairline cracking
• Uneven wear of past seal coat
• 2-3 years since last seal
• Signs of over sealing
• Water standing too long on driveway

Other reasons to get a seal coat include the wear and tear caused by vehicles. Oil and gasoline drip will cause the asphalt in your driveway to crack and break down. Oil spots require a special coal tar sealant to prevent deterioration. This should be applied every 2-3 years.
There are many benefits of seal coat for pavement maintenance:

• Protect and extend the lifespan of your driveway or parking lot
• Prevents water from penetrating the surface which leads to cracking
• Protects against oxidization from the sun (paving materials become dry, brittle)
• Prevents erosion of asphalt
• Costs pennies a square foot compared to repairs
• Prevents oils and salt from breaking down the asphalt
• Aides water run off
• Limits pooling of water
• Slows down surface cracking
• Prevents slip and fall injuries
• Enhances the aesthetics and curbside appeal of property

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Benefits of Sealcoating a Parking Lot

Cracks and potholes are inevitable when dealing with asphalt pavement; however, neglecting to seal coat your facilities asphalt pavement can lead to an accelerated cracking and pothole situation reducing the pavements service life.

Dry weather and freezing weather, although freezing temperatures is not usually a big problem here, can have a degrading effect on asphalt pavement. Other environmental issues such as tree roots, vehicle traffic, gas, oil, sand, and litter also work to crack and damage asphalt. Properly maintained parking lots, those that receive regular sweeping service, crack filling, pothole repair and sealcoating, are prone to outlast those parking areas that are left to "fend for themselves" against these elements.

The Benefits

There are many benefits to sealcoating, such as:

· Minimize Repair - Sealcoating minimizes the need for asphalt repairs.

· Weatherize - Sealcoating helps weatherize asphalt and stops weather damage.

· Limit Oxidation - Sealcoating prevents the oxidation of asphalt.

· Curb Appeal - Sealcoating improves the look of asphalt pavement.

· Damage Resistant - Sealcoating helps asphalt resists damage from gas, oil, and salt.

Ask the Professionals

Pavement contractors bear the burden of pavement maintenance for most commercial facilities. They provide a range of services from crack filing, to resurfacing, pothole repair, and other types of asphalt repairs. But, one of the most important duties that paving contractors perform is sealcoating.

With proper and timely application, sealcoating completed on a regular basis, hand-in-hand with crack filing, and asphalt repair, can extend pavement life past the post where the cost to benefit ratio of added pavement life exceeds the cost of conducting the maintenance itself!

A properly installed, high-quality sealcoating product will protect your parking lots' asphalt from fuel, oil, weather and traffic wear. If asphalt is not property seal coated or, not sealed at all, cracks can start forming in the asphalt, which can then lead to potholes. Depending on your environment, most asphalt pavement should be seal coated every two to three years. For the best results, sealcoating should only be done by a professional paving and sealcoating company.

Cost of Sealcoating

Asphalt pavement sealing costs are determined by more than just a calculated method based on square footage. There are many variables to determine the cost of sealcoating such as: number of cracks to be filled, potholes to be repaired, number of coats needed, and how much hand work is needed. Ask your paving contractor to come out to your commercial facility to inspect the area to be seal coated and to give you a free quote.

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Construction of Asphalted Surfaces - How to Choose A Contractor

Are you planning to hire a contractor who will take charge of the construction of a drive way, parking lot or a tennis court for you? You need to be prepared to spend good money on this project in order to ensure that the surface that is created lasts very long and does not give you any trouble. However, are you certain that the contractor you are planning to hire is a reliable one? The following tips will help you select one who will do the job for you in the best manner possible.

At the very outset, you need to check whether the construction company has the necessary expertise and equipment to get the job done. Asphalting a surface, even one as short as your driveway, is a complicated job involving various processes. If the contractor is not able to handle the job properly then the surface that is created will not last very long.

At the same time, there is a possibility that well established and popular businesses will not be able to give you the level of attention you require. You should only give your business to a company whose representative takes the time out to understand what your specific needs are and also whether your property has any unique problems. This will ensure that you are offered a solution that matches your needs.

Make sure that you deal with a company that is known for sticking to precise timelines. The last thing you need is a construction crew stationed on your property for days on end. The company you give your contract to should be able to inform you in writing regarding the completion date of the project. You will also get a good idea about a company's level of professionalism from its ability to stick to a schedule. It is also a very good idea to enquire whether the contractor has taken the necessary insurances that will protect you in the event of any accident whilst the work is going on in your property.

Feel free to ask the company for any references of clients for whom it has done work in the past. If the construction company is hesitant about sharing this information then you have every reason to be suspicious about the quality of services it offers. If you choose your contractor based upon these tips then you can be sure that you will be satisfied with the results of its work.

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The Strong Foundation For Any Pavement - Asphalt Paving

Most homes have driveways which would require durable pavement. At home, the residential infrastructures which include the drive way pavement can enhance the security, beauty and aesthetic appeal of the whole property. Many pavement contractors offer different kinds of paving services. These services include construction of driveways, parking areas, cubs as well as patching services.

Most homes are never complete without driveways. In America where most people are driving their own vehicles, the residential area requires a specific path for the cars or vans. Because of this necessity, paving had become an essential requirement under home construction. You can never ignore the need to pave your driveway.

Paving had made its importance be recognized in all sectors, be it residential, commercial or industrial. At home, the residential infrastructures which include the drive way pavement can enhance the security, beauty and aesthetic appeal of the whole property. It may not occur to you but then - the pavement contribute to the beautification of the building, not to mention the additional value. As driveways are usually found in the frontal area of most buildings, you will realize that aside from providing a space where the vehicle runs, this sort of pavement adds charm to the whole structure.

To accomplish the herculean task of rendering professional paving services, many contractors are now in this business. Many pavement contractors offer different kinds of paving services. These services include construction of driveways, parking areas, cubs as well as patching services.

On drive way foundation

Construction of drive ways is a very significant activity that is performed in residential, commercial and industrial establishments. Professional contractors will ensure that they have created beautiful, impressive, sturdy and rock solid pavements. These firms build the area with concrete or stone or asphalt and other materials. The choice of materials can be a decision of the building owner but in many cases, there are suggestions that the asphalt paving is more beneficial. Aside from the actual construction, these professionals also render cleaning, maintenance and repair services.

Building of parking areas and lots

A bigger contract for these professional asphalt or concrete pavers can involve huge parking areas and parking lots. As these areas will be used for more heavy duty activities, these are expected to be ultra sturdy. Thus, your efficient contractor is obligated to use only the finest and highest quality materials. The goal is for the longevity of the parking area and this can only be done by reliable contracting companies.

Curb construction and repair

Your curb can affect the look of your residence or commercial establishment. Damaged curb can be an eyesore that will repel customers for commercial establishment customers. The effect is the same for residential buildings - where people will hardly appreciate the beauty and façade of your home when you curb is damaged.

Patching Services

Another service rendered by the paving contractors is patching service. These patching services can be construction or repair of parks, speed bumps, curbs and even parking areas, driveways and walkways. Topnotch professional paving service providers can offer high quality repairs and patching techniques that can restore the durability and quality of the park, bump, curb, parking area, walkway and driveway.

Look around your property and check if there are any pavements that need repair. Or perhaps, there is a sparse area to be paved and done with. And before you accomplish the contract, be sure that you have evaluated the kind of pavement that is needed. And have you ever compared asphalt paving to other materials? Remember that for many property owners who ever had used asphalt paving attest to the durability, beauty and cost effectiveness of this material.

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How to Choose the Best Driveway Paving Option: Update With Asphalt, Pavers, or Block Curbing

Whether your crumbling, old driveway is in desperate need of repair or you're putting in a driveway for a new construction property, there are several options to choose from for paving your drive. Be sure that you've considered the pros and cons of each material for your paving project by learning more about traditional asphalt, brick, and paver driveways as well as block curbing to determine which driveway paving option is right for your home.

Asphalt Driveways

Asphalt driveways are a traditional and simple option and are by far the most popular driveway paving material/style across the country. Putting in an asphalt driveway can create a stable driving surface with a no-nonsense appearance. However, this is not a task you would want to handle on your own, due to the various steps necessary for a stable, long-lasting drive. You'll also want to make sure you properly vet any driveway paving companies you consider hiring to ensure you find a skilled professional who will get the job done right. Asphalt driveway paving begins with preparing the underlying soil beneath where the coating of asphalt will be laid. Precision for laying smooth, even asphalt is essential for the quality and longevity of your driveway.

Brick and Paver Driveways

If you're looking to create an eye-catching driveway that will stand out on your block, consider an out-of-the-box approach. Asphalt driveways are the obvious go-to for a sturdy driving surface, but if you want to give your driveway personality and style, you may want to look into using pavers. Pavers are a special type of brick or block used for driveway paving. When it comes to this style of driveway, you have a plethora of options. You could choose to put in brick or pavers for your entire driveway or just the "apron," (the first few feet of the drive). You have to consider the type of block used, the color, and the shape of the paver to create the stylized driveway of your dreams.

Beyond choosing your preferred style, it's important to install the driveway correctly by finding skilled driveway paving contractors. If the asphalt, pavers, or other materials are not laid correctly, you may find yourself facing a plethora of problems. Asphalt driveways can crack if not installed appropriately, while driveway pavers can move and shift out of place, creating gaping cracks, if their initial installation is not done properly.

Block Curbing

Another great option for enhancing your driveway is block curbing. Block curbing creates an attractive outline around the driveway, also serving as a barrier between the asphalt of the drive and your lawn. This stylish addition to your driveway can provide a finished look on your landscaping as well as help prevent weeds from growing onto the driveway. You could pair this curbing with an asphalt driveway or a brick or paver driveway, depending on your desired home aesthetic.

No matter what you choose for your new driveway, opt for professional installation for quality results that will look good both today and in the future!

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Asphalt Driveway Basics: What to Know About Asphalt Driveways

Most of the time, not a lot of thought is often given to what type of driveways homeowners want. There are positives and negatives to each option, but as many people find out, asphalt can be a wonderful driveway option for any customer.

The climate you live in is one of the important things to consider when determining which driveway material is best for your situation. As you travel north in the United States, the prevalence of asphalt driveways increases due to the up and down weather conditions that occur in colder climates. Driveways that spend time in colder climates have different needs and requirements than driveways that do not face a lot of weather adversity. This is because asphalt is a more pliable and flexible material than concrete driveways, which makes it more forgiving in those climates. Also, for people living in snowy areas, the black color of the asphalt can also aid in melting ice and snow faster. Those seemingly small things can make a huge difference in adding on to your driveway's life span.

When time is of the essence, asphalt driveways are a good choice. When done by a professional, they can be done relatively quickly and with out a lot of mess. A new asphalt driveway can usually be installed in a day or two after the sub-grade preparation. This causes fewer problems for the driveway owner. These driveways also be driven on around 24 hours after their installation, making it relatively more convenient than other methods. Less wait time can end up being a forgotten factor when considering driveway options, but it should not be dismissed. With proper installation and care, an asphalt driveway can last up to 20 or 30 years. This lifespan is based on the installation's quality, the type and frequency of driveway maintenance and your region's climate.

Asphalt driveways should be sealed every 3 to 5 years to maintain their quality and prevent deterioration once they are a minimum of 6 months old. It is recommended that a quality commercial grade asphalt sealer does the sealing to ensure the highest quality.

These driveways can be an economical and aesthetically pleasing solution for your driveway needs. They offer a sharp, sleek and clean look for your driveway. If you determine that your climate and location are suitable for installing asphalt driveways, contact a professional to help you assess what your pre-installation check list should include.

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Deciding Between Asphalt Paving and Concrete?

If you're thinking about paving a parking lot, driveway or road, and can't decide between asphalt paving and concrete paving, this article is for you!

Where concrete was once the preferred method for paving roads and parking lots, today, asphalt paving is the preferred choice.

Let's take a look at how concrete and asphalt are made to compare and contrast the features and benefits of each type of paving.

Concrete is made using crushed rock and sand aggregate, cement and water. As the mixture dries, the cement binds the concrete and holds the aggregate together. Once set, concrete is a stiff and unforgiving solid substance. However, if the surface beneath the concrete has not been made perfectly smooth, concrete is prone to cracking and breaking.

Asphalt is also made using aggregate. However, instead of using cement as a binder, bitumen, a dark, sticky substance derived from crude oil is used. To build a parking lot or driveway, hot asphalt is poured onto a layer of heavier aggregate and then pressed into it with a steamroller. Once cooled, asphalt is strong enough to withstand automobile traffic. While asphalt is extremely hard and durable, it offers enough flexibility to accommodate imperfections in underlying surfaces, a feature that concrete does not have.

The other advantages of asphalt paving over concrete or cement paving are numerous. One advantage over concrete is that removal and replacement of damaged asphalt is a relatively easy process in comparison to that of concrete. Asphalt is also completely recyclable. Due to the large demand of asphalt for recycling purposes, it is rare that this material will be sent to the landfill.

Another benefit to asphalt construction projects is that they can be finished and the roadways opened for traffic much faster and with a lot less expense than concrete construction projects. Additionally, maintenance and repair of asphalt pavement is quicker, easier and less expensive than that of cement pavement. In fact, repairing minor cracks in asphalt driveways and walkways can be so easy that, with the know-how, one person, by them self, can complete a minor asphalt repair project in just one afternoon. A benefit in making the simple, inexpensive asphalt repair can increase the longevity of an asphalt surface significantly.

When more than just asphalt crack repair is needed, the solution still requires less time and money repairing asphalt paving over cement paving. Unlike concrete, which needs to be removed and replaced when significant cracks appear, asphalt can be resurfaced in much less time, and at a fraction of the cost.

Whether you're talking about new construction, maintenance, or repair -- asphalt paving is a better solution than concrete paving in almost every situation, saving you time and money.

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Asphalt Paving Companies Perform Many Different Services

If you own a commercial or residential property, chances are at some point you will need to perform maintenance on your parking lot or driveway. There are several things to consider when choosing a contractor to perform these services on your property. Some contractors specialize in concrete and others in asphalt paving and some provide services for both. One important consideration to take when contracting work on your property is whether it is a commercial or residential job. Thus, making sure the company carries the proper insurance. It is also a good idea to check up on the companies insurance, what it covers and the dollar amount of coverage for their policy.

There are two different ways the actual work will take place. Some companies perform their work with in-house crews, and others outsource the actual work to be performed. There are pro's and con's to each. When companies use in-house crews they are able to take on projects and assign a crew to the job within their own company. When using sub-contractors, you are sometimes dealing with other companies work load and their scheduling challenges. One of the pros to using sub-contractors is not to have to keep the crews and equipment busy during the off season or in bad weather. Sometimes companies using sub-contractors just provide project management and administrative services. A lot of times this technique works better due to the many different scopes of work needed to complete the same project.

A good source for finding contractors in your area is on the internet, a lot of reputable companies are normally listed. These companies have information readily available so you can find perspective companies you are considering for hire. You will be able to see projects the company may have already completed. The companies' website is probably the most efficient means of gathering information about them. Using information from this article should be helpful in choosing an asphalt or concrete paving contractor in your area.

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