Commercial and residential SEALCOATING

Protect and Maintain

Sealcoating is a vital maintenance process that helps protect and extend the life of asphalt surfaces. It involves applying a thin protective layer of asphalt-based coating over the existing pavement.

Sealcoating acts as a barrier against various elements, including harsh weather conditions, UV rays, automotive fluids, and oxidation, which can cause premature deterioration and cracks in the asphalt. By sealing the surface, sealcoating helps to prevent water penetration, reducing the risk of structural damage and extending the pavement’s lifespan.

Additionally, sealcoating provides an attractive, uniform appearance to the pavement, enhancing its curb appeal and giving it a fresh, well-maintained look.

Regular sealcoating is a cost-effective solution that helps preserve and safeguard asphalt surfaces, ensuring their durability and functionality for years to come.

Did you know?

The sun can damage asphalt through a process called solar radiation deterioration. Here’s how it occurs:

Ultraviolet (UV) Radiation: The sun emits UV radiation, which is a form of electromagnetic radiation. UV rays are particularly damaging to asphalt surfaces.

Oxidation: UV radiation penetrates the asphalt surface and interacts with the asphalt binder, which is the material that holds the aggregate (stone and sand) together. The UV rays cause a process known as oxidation, where the long-chain hydrocarbon molecules in the asphalt binder break down and react with oxygen. This process weakens the binder and reduces its ability to hold the aggregate together.

Fading and Discoloration: Continuous exposure to UV radiation causes the asphalt to fade and lose its original dark color. Over time, the surface may turn gray or lighter in color due to the breakdown of organic pigments present in the asphalt.

Surface Cracking: As the asphalt binder weakens, the surface becomes more prone to cracking. The combination of UV radiation, oxidation, and the expansion and contraction of the asphalt due to temperature changes can lead to the development of small cracks, known as alligator cracking or spiderweb cracks. These cracks allow water to penetrate the surface, further accelerating deterioration.

Surface Deterioration: The combination of UV radiation, oxidation, and moisture intrusion leads to additional damage. Water entering through cracks can weaken the asphalt, causing it to deteriorate further. The freeze-thaw cycle, where water freezes and expands during colder temperatures, exacerbates the damage by widening existing cracks and causing more extensive surface degradation.

To minimize the impact of sun damage on asphalt, various preventive measures can be taken, such as regular sealcoating and applying UV-protective coatings. These treatments can help reduce the effects of UV radiation, slow down oxidation, and prolong the lifespan of the asphalt surface. Proper maintenance, including filling cracks and addressing drainage issues promptly, is also essential to prevent further deterioration caused by sun damage and other environmental factors.