Asphalt paving contractors frequently field calls from commercial property owners and managers who are trying to determine whether they need paving or sealcoating for their parking lots and other pavements. Paving and sealcoating are two very different processes. The condition of the pavement is a critical factor in determining which method to choose. It is a bit like deciding whether you need to replace the drywall in your living room or paint it. If the drywall is in relatively good condition, you can paint it after making any required repairs. However, if the drywall has water damage, is warped or has numerous large holes, you will need to replace the drywall before painting it. Understanding the differences between paving and sealcoating can help you make the right decision.
What Is Asphalt Sealcoating?
Sealcoating is a preventive maintenance procedure for asphalt pavement in which a contractor applies a liquid sealant that will bond to the pavement. As the water evaporates from the sealant, the solids within the sealant unite to form a hard, durable shell over the pavement. This shell blocks ultraviolet radiation and slows the rate at which automotive fluids will penetrate to the interior of the pavement. Sealants can usually cover minor blemishes on the surface of your pavement, but they can only cover cracks that are about the width of a human hair. However, sealants can make the entire surface of the pavement appear smoother, and they also refresh the pavement’s color.
Without sealcoating, your pavement could display significant signs of deterioration in less than six years. You should have your contractor apply sealcoat before a new pavement reaches its first anniversary, and you will need to have him repeat the process every two to five years. Any reputable Austin paving company can recommend an appropriate schedule for sealcoating after evaluating the type of traffic your pavement receives and the overall condition of the pavement.
What Is Asphalt Paving?
Most asphalt contractors include a variety of maintenance, construction, and repair tasks in the category of asphalt paving. They may use the term to describe the initial installation of asphalt during the construction of new pavement. They may also use the term to describe the repair of alligatored pavement or potholes through asphalt patching. However, many contractors prefer to use the name only to describe asphalt resurfacing. Resurfacing involves the application of a new layer of asphalt to an existing pavement. An overlay is another way to describe asphalt resurfacing. Overlays are more economical than tearing out an existing pavement and rebuilding it, but they can provide a similar appearance and life expectancy. However, overlays are typically not a cost-effective option for pavements with extensive foundation damage. Just like a new pavement, an overlay will have a longer life if you maintain its sealcoating.
If I Am Still Uncertain Whether I Need Paving or Sealcoating, Can Alpha Help?
We would be happy to evaluate your pavement and explain all of your options. Alpha Paving offers a complete range of paving services, including asphalt overlays, sealcoating, crack and pothole repairs, parking lot striping, road construction, thermoplastic pavement markings, concrete work, asphalt milling, street maintenance, and parking lot signs. Our clients include numerous shopping centers, municipalities, hospitals, airports, office parks, apartment complexes, churches, educational facilities, subdivisions, hotels, homeowner associations, and retailers. We take pride in our reputation for delivering exceptional work at reasonable rates. For a free quote, submit our online form or call 512-677-9001.
