Asphalt pavement is extremely durable and attractive. With proper care, your asphalt surface could last for several decades. Obtaining the maximum life for your pavement requires completing repairs when they are needed, keeping the surface clean, not subjecting it to a heavier load than it was engineered to bear — and keeping it sealcoated.
Sealcoating starts out as a liquid that is sprayed or spread over the asphalt. When it dries, the sealant bonds with the pavement to form a protective barrier. This barrier helps keep out the things that can result in a shorter life for your pavement.
Why Sealcoating Works!
1. Every vehicle carries with it a variety of chemicals that have the potential to damage your asphalt. Oil is one of the most common types of automotive leaks as well as one of the most dangerous to asphalt. Transmission fluid and power steering fluid are also destructive. Other liquids that can harm your asphalt include gasoline, transmission fluid and engine coolant. These products soften asphalt, and the weakened area can deteriorate and crumble, leading to potholes and cracks. Sealants help keep these chemicals from reaching your pavement.
2. A bright, sunny day may lift the spirits of many people, but it can be a burden for asphalt pavement. That is because UV rays can cause asphalt to age prematurely. Over time, the UV rays will expedite the asphalt’s deterioration, making it too brittle to stand up under normal use. The asphalt will begin to crack or break. Furthermore, UV rays will affect the asphalt’s color, fading it to a washed-out shade of gray. Think of sealcoating as sunscreen for your asphalt; it drastically reduces the amount of ultraviolet radiation that penetrates to the pavement.
3. Because asphalt is insoluble in water, many people assume that there is no way that water can damage an asphalt surface. While it is true that water will not “melt” asphalt, it can cause damage if your pavement has potholes, cracks or other points of entry for the water to reach the foundation. Asphalt pavement must have a strong, stable foundation; if the foundation becomes destabilized, the pavement can crack and potholes can form. Sealcoating acts like a raincoat for your asphalt pavement, keeping the water on top of the pavement where it can evaporate harmlessly or drain away from the pavement.
MH Greeson Paving specializes in sealcoating, parking lot striping and asphalt repairs in Atlanta, Marietta, and the surrounding areas. Our experienced crews also handle a variety of other services, including asphalt paving and the installation of traffic signs, bollards and car stops. You can submit our online form or call our Marietta office at 770-335-2983 to discuss your next asphalt project.
