A well-maintained asphalt parking lot can add to the overall customer satisfaction with your business. Rochester NY Sealcoating is an easy way to make your parking lot look great and protect it from damage.
When applying sealcoat, the weather conditions have to be just right. Workers need to be able to work without rain or wind, and cars must be kept off the newly-sealed surface until it dries completely.
1. Prevents Water Damage
Asphalt surfaces that aren’t sealcoated are susceptible to water damage. When water seeps through the small cracks in your paved driveway or parking lot and freezes in cold temperatures, it expands and causes further damage to the surface. Sealcoating prevents this from happening by creating a waterproof barrier that protects the surface from water penetration and freezing.
If you want your commercial pavement to last for as long as possible, then regular sealcoating is a necessity. It protects the asphalt from weathering, and it also helps to extend the life of your parking lot.
When you have a professional sealcoating contractor apply a quality coat, it will fill in those small cracks before they get worse and stop them from spreading. You will notice that it makes the pavement look new again, and it is also much easier to sweep the paved area.
Sealcoating is a mixture of emulsified asphalt, mineral fillers, and additives that creates a protective layer over the surface of your parking lot or driveway. This mixture fills in the surface voids and provides a smooth coating that resists penetration by water, oil, gasoline, and other chemicals.
During the sealcoating process, it is best to close off the paved area to vehicular traffic and pedestrians. You should also turn off any sprinkler systems, so the surface does not get wet. If you need to keep some of your paved area open, then it is recommended that you use cones and barricades to separate the areas and make sure no one drives on the newly sealed area until it has had a chance to cure. It is also necessary to provide adequate PPE (personal protection equipment) for your workers. This includes things like safety glasses, dust masks, and a respirator that is approved for use with coal tar emulsions.
2. Prevents Stains
Sealcoating prevents oil stains by creating a barrier that protects the asphalt from gasoline, motor oil and other petroleum products. In addition, it slows down the breakdown of the asphalt binder. This means that the scuffing of tires on untreated asphalt will be lessened and your blacktop will last longer.
Sealcoating is made out of coal byproducts or similar acrylics that are mixed with very fine bits of silica and some additives and fillers. The result is a fluid substance that is easy to apply and that looks very nice on a driveway or parking lot.
However, this liquid material can be quite hazardous if it comes into contact with skin before it has had time to dry. This is why workers wear long sleeved shirts, pants and impervious boots as well as safety goggles and face shields. It is also important to make sure that any manhole covers or utility access points are protected from the sealcoating substance.
A sign should be posted indicating that the area is being sealed so people can stay away until it has had a chance to set. While some people are tempted to use the surface before it has had a chance to set, this will only cause it to crumble and ruin the appearance that was so carefully created with a new coat of sealant.
Sealcoating is an excellent way to preserve asphalt and save money by avoiding expensive repairs. In addition, it helps keep a property looking great and provides a safe environment for vehicles and pedestrians. By keeping up with this simple maintenance task, you can add several years to the life of your asphalt and avoid the need to replace it.
3. Prevents Frozen Roadways
Asphalt isn’t as durable as concrete, which means it needs some extra protection from harsh weather and traffic. Cracks, UV rays, and oxidation all damage asphalt, but sealcoating adds a protective layer that reduces these damaging effects. Asphalt that has been damaged can lose its traction and cause a trip hazard for pedestrians and vehicles. With seal coating, however, the pavement is protected and will retain its smooth, rich black luster.
A crack in the asphalt allows water to seep underneath, which can then freeze during freezing temperatures. This is a serious hazard for motorists and pedestrians, and it can also further damage the pavement, as the water expands as it turns to ice. Sealcoating prevents this from happening by filling in cracks and forming a barrier that keeps water out.
An unprotected driveway or parking lot is vulnerable to the sun’s damaging UV rays year-round, even in the winter. The sun’s UV rays can damage the binders and aggregate in asphalt, causing it to become brittle and crumble. Sealcoating slows the oxidation process and helps protect asphalt from UV rays, which is why it’s important to get it done every two or three years.
Sealcoating can be dangerous for workers, as the chemicals used in it are toxic to breathe and can burn skin. This is why it’s recommended that professionals perform this service, as they know how to properly apply and safely work with the material. It’s also worth noting that sealcoating will only work if the existing asphalt is in good condition before applying it. If the existing pavement is already damaged, a seal coat will only make it look better for a short while and could end up costing more in the long run.
4. Prevents Damage to Vehicles
Asphalt is one of the most common construction materials in modern society. It’s used in everything from driveways to parking lots, and it’s designed to withstand a lot of abuse. However, asphalt doesn’t last forever and it needs to be maintained to keep it in good shape. That’s why seal coating is so important.
Sealcoating is a protective layer that covers the surface of your pavement and adds a bit of shine. It also protects the underlying surface from damage, which can save you money in the long run. In addition, sealcoating prevents damage from water and other elements.
A seal coat can be applied from spring through fall, but it must be dry and clear for proper curing. The spraying process releases toxins, so it’s important that your workers are equipped with the best personal protective equipment. Ensure that they have access to coveralls, gloves, safety glasses and a face mask. In addition, make sure that they are trained to properly use the equipment, so they don’t end up spraying themselves or others.
Another benefit of seal coating is that it helps slow the oxidation process. The sun’s rays can dry out the binder of your asphalt, making it more brittle and more susceptible to cracking. Seal coating is a way to protect the asphalt from the oxidation process and extend its lifespan.
The sealant helps to fill in the tiny cracks that occur over time. This stops the cracks from getting bigger, which can lead to major problems later on. It also protects the asphalt from water leaks that might occur. Leaks on asphalt paved surfaces can soften the surface and create large and dangerous cracks.
5. Prevents Damage to Property
Asphalt is a great material for paving roads, parking lots, driveways and more. However, it is susceptible to the sun and weather which can cause the surface to degrade and fade over time. Sealcoating helps to prevent this, as well as protects the underlying materials of the pavement from damage by oil, gas and chemical spills.
Restores a Rich Black Look
When new, asphalt is a deep black color that looks clean and inviting. Over time, the elements and weather can cause this to fade, leaving the asphalt looking washed out, gray or white, and dingy. Sealcoating restores the black appearance of the asphalt and makes the lot look brand new again, improving the curb appeal of the property.
Prevents Oxidation and UV Rays
Over time, the asphalt binder can deteriorate due to exposure to sunlight and other environmental factors. The sealcoat helps to protect the asphalt and slow this process down, extending the lifespan of the pavement.
Enhances Safety
Sealcoating creates a smooth surface that minimizes tripping hazards, while also providing a clear distinction between parking spaces and pedestrian areas. This also helps to reduce vehicle accidents and property damage.
Saves Money
The cost of a new parking lot is expensive, and it’s even more expensive to have to repair or replace a damaged one. Regular sealcoating can significantly extend the life of your asphalt, helping to save you money in the long run.
