14 July 2022
 Categories: , Blog

Asphalt pavements are designed to be firm and durable. However, you'll need to schedule sealcoating services as part of maintenance to enhance durability. Naturally, you want the sealcoating process to achieve lasting results, but certain factors might affect the outcome of the project. Here's where professionals come in. This piece will discuss some problems a paving company can help you overcome during sealcoating processes.

1. Insufficient Bonding

Applying the sealant inappropriately leads to short-term results. Over time, the coating will flake and peel off, revealing an unappealing surface. For this reason, paving companies prefer to prepare the driveway's surface ahead of the sealcoating procedure.

The contractors will clean the pavement thoroughly to eliminate contaminants like debris, gravel, oil, and dirt that may tamper with the bond between the surface and the sealant. The experts might use techniques like wire brushing, pressure washing, and scraping to remove dirt and debris from the surface. Proper bonding ensures lasting results.

2. Wrong Timing

Sealcoating should not be conducted during cold seasons. Paving contractors with relevant knowledge and exposure understand this and will plan sealcoating during the hot months when the sun shines the most. The sealant cures better when the temperatures are high.

Contractors recommend applying the sealant early in the morning before the sun rises, so they are done before the sun comes out completely. This will give the pavement enough time to dry up before the sun sets. You are also advised to keep traffic off for a few hours until the surface dries completely.

3. Over-Polished Surfaces

If you examine your asphalt driveway or pavement, you will see that some sections are more worn out than others. Sections like entrances, exits, and parking lanes generally wear out faster than others. The worn-out surfaces appear and feel smoother. When you apply a sealant on an overly polished area of the driveway, the bonding between the surface and sealer might be weak.

However, paving companies may recommend priming these smooth regions. The primer will provide a better bonding surface for the sealer and improve the results.

4. Failure to Conduct Repairs

Before sealcoating, the paving company will inspect the surface for defects and repair them. Issues like cracks, crumbling edges, and potholes must be repaired before applying the sealer. Contrary to common belief, sealants should not replace repairs. They protect and conserve the uppermost coat of the asphalt pavement. Therefore, it is essential to repair any damage on the foundation or surface before applying the sealant.

You can avoid failures after sealcoating by paying attention to these crucial requirements and conditions. Fortunately, you can always hire a paving company to guide you every step to ensure you achieve lasting and appealing results. To schedule a sealcoating service, reach out to a paving company, such as Rose City Paving LLC.