It seems everybody in my neighborhood is slathering that thick black sealing compound onto their asphalt driveways. I'm trying to figure out the point. My driveway has a cracked appearance, with some weeds and grass showing.
I think the cracks and imperfections add character. My neighbours (with well-manicured lawns) are not convinced. Is there a good reason for sealing your driveway? Here's what I found out.
What is sealcoat?
Sealcoat is a petroleum product that is applied to asphalt to protect it from car oil and gasoline. The sealcoat will act as a barrier and protect the driveway from any damage caused by winter cracking, UV rays and general traffic.
The sealcoat doesn't fix cracks in driveway sealing home depot your driveway. This must be done before you apply the sealcoat. If the cracks are minor, the repair process can be as simple as clearing out the debris and broken edges and then filling them with a caulk (a rubbery material that expands and contracts with the weather). The sealant should not be applied until all cracks have been filled.
DIY - what it costs
Sealing your driveway yourself will be cheaper than hiring a professional. Here are the tools you'll need:
cleaning brush and broom
gloves and a squeegee
cleaner to prep the asphalt surface
crack filler
chemical sealant
You should be how long does driveway sealer last prepared driveway sealing drying times to spend about $150 for every 1,000 square feet of driveway.
How to hire a dependable driveway sealant company
Whether you need a driveway sealant depends on where you live. Most Canadians endure cold, harsh winters with numerous freeze-thaw cycles followed by heat and humidity in the summer. Most professional driveway sealant companies suggest you seal your driveway every 2-3 years.
Professional pavement sealers are applied with either pressurized spray equipment or self-propelled squeegee machines. The process requires 24 to 48 hours of curing before your car is allowed back on the surface.
Tips:
surface must be completely clean using a broom and/or blower
ensure 3 inches of sealant is placed on your driveway (check using a ruler if necessary)
check out neighbours whose driveways have already had a sealing job done
get a receipt in case anything goes wrong
Still not convinced you need to seal your driveway?
Here's the bottom line. If your driveway is in good shape (no cracks, weeds or buckling asphalt) sealing may be more cosmetic then functional. However, if your driveway is beginning to crack after a particularly harsh winter, you might consider fixing the cracks and applying a fresh coat of sealant.
Have you ever sealed your driveway? Did the sealant work, or was it a waste of money? Share your thoughts below.