You just spent a few hours applying sealcoat to your driveway and sidewalk. You feel pretty good about yourself because you know that this will help prevent those ugly cracks from forming in the pavement. However, you may not realize that there are conditions that can significantly affect how long the sealcoat lasts on your property.
If you want to make sure your sealcoat lasts as long as possible, here are some conditions you need to pay attention to:
1) Ensure that Your Pavement Does Not Have Any Debris
Ensure that your pavement does not have any debris on it before applying a sealcoat. Any small rocks or stones stuck in the old sealer will damage will prevent the sealant from adhering to the surface properly, thus you will likely need to spend money re-sealing very soon again. To avoid this, make sure to sweep your pavement with a broom before applying a sealcoat, so there is no debris on the surface.
2) Wait for a Sunny Day for Sealcoating
Sealcoating your pavement is best done on a sunny day so the sealer can dry properly. The sun will help the sealcoat to dry properly so it is ready to withstand traffic after 24 hours. Do not sealcoat if the ground is wet, or if there is any rain expected within 24 hours.
3) Summer is the Best Time for Sealcoating
Sealcoating your pavement is a lot of work, and it is best done in the late spring or summer when conditions are driest. The hot summer sun will ensure the sealant dries quickly and there is less chance of rain during these months.
4) Ensure that the Minimum Temperature is 50+ Degrees
The conditions for sealcoating should always be dry and warm. Sealcoat will not adhere to the surface properly in very low temperatures, so make sure that it is at least 50 degrees Fahrenheit outside before you begin working.
5) Find Out if it will Rain Within 24 Hours After You Sealcoat
If rain is expected within the next 24 hours, you will need to wait until drier conditions before beginning your sealcoat. It is necessary to let your sealcoat cure outside, and rain will prevent that from happening.
At, Standard Striping, we’re in the business of keeping your driveway, parking lot, or commercial property looking great all year round by offering unmatched asphalt paving, striping, and sealcoating services under one roof. Whether you have questions about the application process or need help estimating the cost, call us today in Severna Park, MD. We will be happy to answer any of your inquiries and provide a free estimate for your job.