Sealcoating asphalt protects pavements from drying out, fading, cracking and crumbling over time. It adds a protective layer and extends the life of roadways, parking lots, and driveways.
In this blog, we will take a look at the benefits and drawbacks of asphalt paving and sealcoating.
Let’s get started!
What is Asphalt Sealcoating?
Asphalt is a mixture of sand and gravel that is both durable and affordable. This makes it popular for use in repairing roads, parking lots, and driveways. However, with time and continuous exposure to UV rays, water, oil, road salt and other chemicals, the asphalt dries out, fades, cracks, and crumbles.
Sealcoating not only adds a protective layer but also replenishes the health of the asphalt and extends its life.
Asphalt paving and sealcoating deeply enrich the asphalt, thus giving it a vibrant, black color. It reintroduces vital oils and binders and fills in small surface imperfections, resulting in a noticeably smoother appearance.
| Advantages of Sealcoating Asphalt | Disadvantages of Sealcoating Asphalt |
| Restores the deep, shiny, black appearance of washed-out asphalt. Prevents Pavement from Breaking Down. Sealcoating Prevents Potholes. Sealcoating is an Affordable Solution. | Sealcoating Shouldn’t Be Applied to Fresh Asphalt. The Sealcoat Needs to Be Maintained. Asphalt should first be in good condition before Sealcoating. |
4 Pros Of Sealcoating Asphalt
The advantages of using a sealcoat include:
1. Restores the deep, shiny, black appearance of washed-out asphalt
Asphalt is black in color and looks and gives a fresh appearance to the pavements, driveways, and parking lots. However, with prolonged exposure to extreme heat, hazardous liquids, and intense weight, the asphalt loses its shiny appearance.
Sealcoating brings back the pavement’s original, vibrant black color and glossy shine, giving it a renewed and pristine appearance. This can significantly upgrade your property’s curb appeal and potentially raise its market value.
2. Prevents Pavement from Breaking Down
Asphalt is durable but exposure to motor oil and gasoline not only leaves a stain, but it also reacts with the petroleum binder and causes rapid deterioration. On top of that, it has to withstand high temperatures and battle the UV rays.
Commercial asphalt sealcoating blocks the damaging, oxidizing substances and keeps the binder pliant and flexible, allowing it to stay in good condition for a longer period.
3. Sealcoating Prevents Potholes
The asphalt’s condition is compromised due to oxidation and oil exposure. As a result, the asphalt cracks up. When left unattended for a long time, they quickly turn into unsightly, dangerous potholes.
Sealcoating prevents oxidation and cracks; potholes are much less likely to form, keeping your roads safe and attractive for a longer period of time.
4. Sealcoating is an Affordable Solution
Asphalt sealcoating costs between $0.15 and $0.25 per square foot. You can minimize the cost of heavy repairs by investing in sealcoating every few years.
3 Cons Of Sealcoating Asphalt
The disadvantages of seal coating are:
1. Sealcoating Shouldn’t Be Applied to Fresh Asphalt
You should wait three to six months after asphalt is paved for it to fully cure and for excess chemicals to rise to the surface. After this curing period, an asphalt sealer can be applied.
2. The Sealcoat Needs to Be Maintained
The sealcoat needs to be maintained after it is applied to the pavement, garage, or driveway. A sealcoating only lasts for two to three years, but it needs to be maintained every now and then.
3. Asphalt should first be in good condition before Sealcoating
Sealcoating works best on dry, faded asphalt or surfaces with minor cracks. It won’t repair crumbled or severely damaged pavement. Complete all asphalt repairs—like sealing cracks and patching potholes—before applying sealant.
For heavily damaged asphalt, consider an asphalt overlay first; once cured, it can be coated for a durable, attractive finish.
Read More:
Everything You Need to Know About Asphalt Crack Repair
Top 10 Benefits of Getting Asphalt Crack-Fillers in 2025
To Conclude
Asphalt sealcoating offers significant advantages, protecting your pavement from the elements and everyday wear and tear.
It restores that deep, rich black color, prevents breakdown from harmful substances, and can even help avert potholes, all while being a cost-effective solution in the long run.
However, it’s crucial to remember that sealcoating isn’t a miracle cure for severely damaged asphalt. Proper timing and surface preparation are key to maximizing its benefits.
By understanding both the pros and cons, you can make an informed decision to extend life and enhance the appearance of your roads, parking lots, and driveways for years to come.
