Sealcoating and crack filling are both helpful treatments that seal a pavement’s surface to keep moisture, dirt, and debris from getting into the cracks. Sealcoating and crack filling are two different processes. Crack filling is a process in which sealant is applied to small cracks, while seal coating involves applying the sealant to the entire surface.
Sealcoating has been around for many years to protect asphalt surfaces like sidewalks or driveways, though not just limited to those areas. Crack filling provides a necessary protective sealant treatment for asphalt roads and parking lots when they need it most.
Both processes protect surfaces from water damage which can lead to costly repairs in the future.
When Should You Sealcoat?
When your pavement has cracks or potholes, or if it looks dried out, or if the asphalt has changed its color, it’s time to sealcoat your pavement.
It is best to sealcoat your pavement when it is dry with no standing water on your pavement. Sealcoating will help create a protective layer on top of the surface that will effectively safeguard the surface from UV light, oil spills, chemicals, as well as other dangers. If the surface is not dry at the time of sealcoating, you will not get the desired results.
It is also a good idea to sealcoat the pavement during the warm temperatures. Summer is a great time to sealcoat your driveway. The sealcoat is more likely to dry faster in warm, sunny weather, and sealant bonds best with the surface when it’s hot. The temperature must be 50 degrees or higher when you sealcoat your pavement. If the temperature drops and goes below 50 degrees, then it is best to wait for warmer weather.
Sealcoating is a process that needs to be done every two to three years, depending on where you live. It significantly extends the life of your asphalt and saves you from spending a fortune on repairing or replacing your asphalt pavement.
When Should You Go for Crack Filling?
The most common reason for filling an asphalt crack is to prevent water penetration and road hazards from developing on the roadway surface. When cracks are left unattended, they tend to grow and become more of a threat.
When your asphalt has begun crumbling or breaking into pieces, then it’s time to fill cracks. Crack filling restores strength and protects asphalt by sealing undesirable gaps in an otherwise seamless roadway.
Cracks can be filled anytime but are not as effective during wet conditions because the sealant needs to dry. When asphalt is moist, the sealant can’t bond to it and thus will allow water and other harmful elements to seep in. When wet conditions are forecasted, crack filling should be delayed.
If you reside in Annapolis, MD, and require the services of a reliable, experienced paving company, then Standard Striping can help! We have the expertise and equipment to provide high quality crack filling and sealcoating services to keep your pavement looking great. Click here to get an estimate today!
