Seal coating is a critical component of the asphalt maintenance plan. Seal coating serves to seal the top of the asphalt, preventing water from penetrating the surface of the pavement and protecting the top layer of asphalt from oxidation and wear caused by exposure to the sun and air. Seal coating also improves the appearance of the pavement by providing a smooth, black, even surface – ideal for painting lines and sweeping.
Maintaining the Integrity of Your Asphalt
The impact of seal coating extends well below the surface. Assuming that the initial asphalt pavement was designed and constructed properly, the primary cause of failure is the penetration of water into the asphalt base.
Asphalt failure often begins with the oxidation of an untreated pavement surface which causes the asphalt to become dry and brittle. The top layer of fine particles erodes, exposing the larger aggregate and leading to small cracks on the surface.
These cracks will grow if left untreated, allowing water to penetrate to the base of the pavement. When water enters the base of the pavement, the base material shifts and settles leading to further cracking and a depression in the surface. As water pools in the depressed area, the asphalt further deteriorates and becomes unstable. When the pavement reaches this stage, removal and replacement of the old asphalt is often the only remedy.
Seal coating regularly can prevent costly removal and replacement repairs by slowing the oxidation and erosion of the top layer of asphalt. On older pavements, seal coating replaces fine particles lost from the asphalt surface due to oxidation. Seal coating also seals the small cracks that can turn into large cracks and prevents water from penetrating to the base material.
Seal coating saves real dollars for pavement owners. Unsealed pavements will require repairs starting with the second year and could require an asphalt overlay as often as every seven years.
Benefits of Sealing Your Asphalt
- Fills minor cracks and depressions that lead to larger problems
- Protects the surface from solar rays
- Produces a smooth finish and eliminate surface imperfections
- Substantially improves visual appearance by remaining black longer
- Improves traffic flow and enhances public safety (lot markings are easier to see against the rich black coat)
Maximizing the Benefit of Seal Coating
To maximize the benefits of seal coating, you need to seal your asphalt regularly, use a quality seal coat product, and work with a company with the expertise to ensure that the product is applied correctly. With over 50 years of asphalt maintenance experience, OliverMahon is the one company in Southern California with the expertise, resources and customer commitment to properly maintain your paved surfaces. Contact us today for a free quote.