Seal coating is a common practice in the asphalt industry. However, many people don’t understand how the process works. The conditions must be just right for sealcoating to work properly. Workers can’t apply it if rain is forecasted within 24 hours. The process involves a combination of steps that include: preparing the surface, applying the sealer and curing. Visit Website for more information.
Let’s explore each of these stages in more detail:
Preparation
A seal coating is a layer of protection for your asphalt surface, extending its life and preventing damage. It offers a dark color that enhances curb appeal and protects the pavement from water penetration, UV damage, and chemical erosion. A seal coat also slows down the oxidization of asphalt, preserving its structural integrity. Regular maintenance by way of a regularly scheduled sealing program is an excellent investment, saving you money in the long run.
Before the actual application of the seal coat, the surface needs to be thoroughly cleaned. This is done by washing the asphalt, removing any dirt or debris. Stubborn stains or oil spots might require the use of more specialized cleaning agents. The area to be sealed is then blocked off to pedestrians and vehicles with cones, barricades, or caution tape.
Workers are then prepared to apply the seal coat. This is typically done using a spray hose. It is important that the coat be spread evenly and not left in puddles. The puddles may cause the surface to crack and eventually crumble.
The seal coat is made from a mixture of bituminous or acrylic-based liquids mixed with water silica sand, polymer additives and other fillers and solids. It is heated to a temperature above 240 degrees Fahrenheit in order to make it viscous. It can be applied by brush, spray, or squeegee.
A good quality seal coat should last approximately five years before it needs to be renewed. This is based on a typical weather forecast in the area, which means that it will need to be maintained regularly to ensure longevity. A properly maintained parking lot not only increases the value of your commercial property, but it also adds a polished and professional look to the environment that enhances customer experience. To learn more about the benefits of a sealcoat, contact us today. We can provide an estimate for your property and assist with the proper preparation and application process to extend the life of your parking lot. We are licensed and insured to provide exceptional service.
Cleaning
A properly applied seal coat will last for years and extend the life of your asphalt. It will also stop weather damage and give your pavement a clean, new appearance that makes a great first impression on your customers. However, there are many steps to the process and the proper preparation is critical for a good result. A professional company will have the experience and equipment to get the job done right.
Before any work can begin, the surface to be sealed must be cleaned. This is done using brooms, blowers and power washers to remove any dirt, oil or debris that could interfere with the adhesion of the seal coat. Then any cracks and potholes are filled in order to prevent water from penetrating the pavement and further damaging it.
During this phase, it is also a good time to repair any minor pavement flaws such as cracks and holes. If left untreated, these can worsen over time, eventually causing a complete breakdown of the asphalt.
Once the surface has been thoroughly cleaned, the workers will apply the seal coat. Depending on the type of seal coat used, this can be accomplished using either a squeegee or spray application. The weather conditions play a major role here; the seal coat must be dry and warm before it can cure properly.
Coal tar emulsions and other materials used for seal coating contain carcinogenic chemicals that can be very hazardous to workers who handle them. Therefore, it is important to train all employees and supervisors on the dangers of working with these materials and how to properly use the equipment to avoid any accidents.
The squeegee or spray application method of applying the seal coat is usually done by hand, but large commercial lots are often spray applied from a distributor truck. Prior to spraying, the contractor will trim any curbs or pavement edges that may be difficult to reach by hand with a soft broom or a spray nozzle affixed to a power hose.
During the spray application, it is a good idea to have an extra hose nearby in case one gets clogged or breaks. This will save time and frustration if the machine needs to be stopped and the hose re-cleaned or replaced.
Application
Depending on the size of your parking lot, the application may be done manually with squeegees or using state-of-the-art spray equipment. Both methods are highly efficient and produce excellent results. However, the spray method allows a larger area to be sealed in less time, so it is often the preferred application option.
Before any work begins, it’s important to block off the area that’s going to be seal coated with signs and cones. The pavement is then cleaned with brooms, air blowers, and brushes to ensure that all dirt and debris are removed. Then, any manhole covers and utility access points are covered to protect them from the sealcoat material.
Next, a light “tack” coat is sprayed onto the surface to create a bond with the asphalt surface and allow it to dry and cure properly. Once that is complete, the heavier second coat is applied.
During this step, oil and grease spots are treated to prevent them from bleeding through the new sealcoat. Then the entire pavement is sprayed with an emulsion which helps suspend the asphalt bitumen in water, allowing it to be sprayed without adding extra heat. This process is known as fog seal coating and is a great way to get a quick, professional finish.
After the sealcoat has been applied, it is allowed to dry and cure for a minimum of eighteen hours. This is necessary for allowing the liquids in the sealer to evaporate and to harden. Afterwards, the area can be reopened to vehicle traffic.
Sealcoating can dramatically extend the life of your asphalt, stopping oxidation and weather damage that causes your pavement to degrade and become brittle. It can also help fill cracks and small holes and make the surface look brand-new. By following this simple maintenance procedure every two to three years, your investment will last much longer. If you’re ready to learn more about how sealcoating can benefit your property, give us a call at Maintain It All today! We’d be happy to talk through the process and how it can transform your asphalt surface.
Curing
When the work is done, it’s time to let your asphalt surface re-adjust itself and fully cure. Curing is a slow process that’s essential to ensuring your seal coat is strong and durable enough for vehicles and pedestrians to use. Several factors influence how long the curing phase takes, and understanding them will help you set realistic expectations and take steps to optimize the results.
The best way to determine if the seal coating has cured is to perform the thumb test. At various points on the paved area, apply pressure to the surface while twisting your thumb in a 90-degree angle. If the pavement doesn’t pick up your thumb, it has cured.
If the surface does pickup, there’s still water in the sealcoat that needs to evaporate. This can lead to a number of problems, including tracking and the loss of the protective layer. To avoid these issues, you should always wait until the surface is dry before driving on it or allowing people to walk on it.
The temperature and humidity play a big role in how quickly and effectively the seal coating dries and cures. Warmer temperatures accelerate the drying process, while cold weather slows it down. Humidity also extends the drying period as moisture lingers in the air, so it’s important to opt for days with lower humidity levels. Additionally, exposing the area to sunlight will speed up the drying process by promoting evaporation.
It’s also important to ensure workers are protected by proper safety equipment before starting a seal coating project. The chemicals used in the seal coating, such as coal tar emulsions, are toxic and carcinogenic, so they should only be handled by experienced and trained professionals.
Seal coating is a quick and cost-effective way to protect your paved surfaces from damage and wear. Regular maintenance and professional application will keep your asphalt in good condition for longer, saving you money and preventing the need for expensive replacements. By understanding the sealing process, you can ensure your driveway or parking lot looks great and is safe for traffic.
