Sealcoating FAQs: Insights from a Jacksonville Asphalt Paving Contractor

Sealcoating FAQs: Insights from a Jacksonville Asphalt Paving Contractor

asphalt-sealcoating-jacksonvilleAn asphalt surface will see a lot of action over its lifespan. From traffic to natural hazards, various elements will start to have a pronounced impact as time goes on. At first, this impact will start to show on the surface as small imperfections, but without proper maintenance, these imperfections soon turn into cracks, potholes, and more major forms of damage. Ultimately, the surface can become so damaged that it needs to be replaced. This process, however, can be slowed down through the use of sealcoating and other maintenance procedures. In this article, we’re going to focus on sealcoating, and answer some of the most common questions we hear from our Jacksonville clients.

What is the sealcoating material composed of?

There are two main types of sealcoating material. You have asphalt-based emulsions, and coal-tar emulsions. Each of these types can be further customized to meet the specifics of your asphalt surface. For example, sand can be added in order to increase the solidity of the mixture and prevent slips from pedestrians. Other materials that can be added to the mix include hardening additives, which are either acrylic- or polymer-based. These hardeners will ensure the strength and longevity of the sealcoat.

How is it applied?

Sealcoating can be applied in a variety of ways, and the method will depend on the nature of the asphalt installation. Sometimes spraying is used, sometimes the coating is done manually using a squeegee, and sometimes the contractor will use a combination of the two methods when the surface requires it.

Is there any prep work involved?

Before the sealcoating procedure, the parking has to be free of any structural damage. If your asphalt installation is currently damaged, you will need to repair it and then wait 12 months before the sealcoat is applied. Sprinklers will need to be shut down during the procedure, and the contractor will need access to any areas of the property that need to be treated. The surface is then cleaned up using either mechanical blowers, brooms, or a sweeper truck, and the asphalt installation area is roped off to prevent any access for about 24 hours.

When should it be applied?

Sealcoating requires favorable weather conditions in order to be applied. The temperatures have to be over 55ºF during the application of the emulsion, and for the 8 hours afterwards while it is settling.

How long until my asphalt surface is usable again?

The sealcoating process itself is fairly quick, but it can take up to 36 hours for the sealer to dry. Traffic should be halted for at least 24 hours after the process is finished, so if your business relies on this traffic, you’ll want to schedule the sealcoating on a weekend or during off-peak hours. In addition to that, you should not use any sprinklers, or wash the surface for at least 48 hours before and after the sealcoating. This is because the sealer is water-soluble until it is dried up.

Can sealcoating be used to cover up oil spots or stains?

In most cases, stains will be covered up by the sealcoat, and oil spots have to be removed from the surface before the coating is applied. This is because the emulsion will not adhere to the asphalt if petroleum spills are present.

Looking for a Jacksonville Asphalt Paving and Sealcoating Company?

Sealcoating can offer a great degree of protection from the weather and regular wear and tear. It is an essential component of any asphalt maintenance program that will keep your installation up to quality standards. If you are interested in asphalt paving and sealcoating in Jacksonville, contact us today and we’ll be glad to assist you.

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