Asphalt driveway sealing offers many benefits. One of the most obvious is a clean, beautiful surface that will raise the perceived value of a property. The main benefit of driveway sealing, however, is protection from the elements. By protecting your driveway from the sun, water and chemicals, you can greatly extend the life of your pavement. A newly sealed driveway can also be easier to keep clean.
UV & Chemical Protection
UV rays from the sun can increase the rate of deterioration of asphalt pavement and shorten its life. By properly sealing your asphalt driveway, you can help it resist the damaging effects of the sun as well as harsh chemicals (like oil, gas, antifreeze, and more) emitted from vehicles.
The biggest threat to damaged asphalt is water. Water can make its way into even the smallest cracks and cause substantial damage; when it seeps into and beneath unsealed asphalt, it causes the pavement structure to shift and become unstable, which could lead to future damage.
Driveways and Cold Temperatures
During the cold winters of Pennsylvania and New Jersey, water that has seeped into asphalt cracks will freeze and when it expands, it can enlarge the cracks in driveways. Asphalt driveway sealing, combined with crack sealing, can protect against water and ice damage. Before asphalt driveway sealing can take place, the cracks must be repaired. Then the asphalt can be coated for extra protection. This treatment will not only improve the look of the surface, but it will also increase its longevity.
Driveway sealing can protect your investment. The bottom line is that sealcoating and proper maintenance for your driveway can prevent small cracks from turning into big ones and keep water from seeping into the base material. Additionally, the dark black appearance of a newly sealed driveway can create an aesthetically appealing look, making your driveway appear brand new.