Types of Asphalt Sealing

If you’re planning to seal your asphalt driveway or parking area to protect it from the summer heat or cold winter temperatures and precipitation, you’ll quickly notice that there’s plenty of variety when it comes to asphalt sealing products. There are several high-quality asphalt sealers to choose from, and each offer advantages and disadvantages in certain situations. Here’s what you need to know about the different types of asphalt sealing products.

Coal tar emulsion

Coal tar emulsion asphalt sealers are the most popular type of sealers on the market. They’re highly weather resistant and result in a long-lasting shiny finish when applied by an asphalt contractor. Coal tar sealants are water based, but there are some environmental concerns when using this product. If available in your region, it’s smart to do some thorough research to determine whether coal tar emulsion is a good option for paved surfaces at your property.

Asphalt emulsion

These asphalt sealing products are made from the same material as your driveway or parking area. Many property owners apply asphalt emulsion because it gives paved areas a darker, richer color, but it really should be used as an alternative if coal tar can’t be used. While these coatings are water resistant, they’re not UV resistant and don’t provide the same level of protection as coal tar emulsion. In some cases, they can fade after just a single season, which means regular coatings are required.

Fast-dry sealants

If you’re sealing a high-traffic area like a roadway or parking lot, a fast-dry sealer is a good option. These sealants cure in less than an hour due to geo-textile fibers that are added into the mix. This convenience comes at a price, though, since these products are often more expensive than other options on the market. Some paving companies have found ways to produce more economical fast-dry sealants by mixing sealer additives into regular pavement sealers. In some cases, these additives can also boost the aesthetics of paved areas, providing a richer, darker finish.

Acrylic sealants

While acrylic sealants are typically expensive compared to other options, they give you the ability to adjust the color according to your needs. Acrylic sealants can be shaded in black, red, green or clear coloring, and they’re often used for parking lots. Not only are these sealers UV resistant, but they hold up well to harsh environmental conditions, including extreme cold and extreme heat. As an added bonus, acrylic sealing products don’t contain any petroleum byproducts, making it an eco-friendly option. Professional application usually lasts up to seven years, which significantly reduces overall maintenance costs for paved surfaces around your property.

Asphalt driveways and parking areas don’t come cheap—they’re a major investment and should be protected with premium asphalt sealers. For best results, work with a professional paving company that can apply a high-quality sealant to protect your pavement throughout the changing seasons. Contact the team at Maryland Asphalt LLC today to discover the right sealer type for the paved surfaces at your home or business.

Categorised in: Sealcoating