Seal coating an asphalt driveway can extend the lifespan of the driveway as well as create an attractive coat over the pavement. Sealcoating Driveways in Madison WI protects the driveway from salts, chemicals, and moisture from entering into the pavement. Seal coating is also an effective way of repairing the existing pavement.
How Seal Coating Works
Seal coating is the process of cleaning and patching existing surfaces, and then coating the entire surface with a liquid sealer, forming an effective barrier once dry. The coating protects the underlying asphalt from the effects of weather elements and sunlight that can cause the asphalt to crack or crumble.
Types of Seal Coatings
Seal coatings can be down narrowed to two main categories: sealers and emulsion coatings.
Emulsions
- Coal Tar Emulsion
Coal tar emulsion is the most durable and provides the most amount of protection for the driveway. Coal tar emulsions are resistant to gasoline, oil, water, and UV lighting from the sun. This style of seal coating can last up to five years.
- Asphalt Emulsion
Made from the same materials used in asphalt driveways, asphalt emulsions are dark in color and work well in areas where coal tar emulsions cannot.
Sealers
- Oil-Based Sealers
An oil-based seal coating for driveways is the least popular and is often not used by homeowners. It takes weeks for this style of sealant to properly dry and leave distinct odors that tend to linger for days.
- Fast-Dry Sealers
Often used by road crews and owners of large parking lots, fast-dry sealants cure in less than an hour. However, because fast-dry sealants cannot be purchased in small quantities, they are often more expensive than other forms of coatings and sealers.
- Acrylic Sealers
Using acrylic sealants for Sealcoating Driveways in Madison WI provides durability and resistance against UV lighting and weather elements. This style of sealant is often categorized as an environmentally friendly option. It also offers longevity of up to seven years before needing to be reapplied.
Sealing a driveway provides the homeowner with many years of a durable driveway. It is important to choose the best one based upon the driveway’s needs. It is also important to have a professional apply the coatings in order to ensure they are done correctly. For more information, contact us today.
