Do You Need Asphalt Sealcoating?
If your residential property has any kind of asphalt surface, you will need to consult with a professional asphalt contractor to ensure that the surface's integrity is preserved over time. This is done through a process called sealcoating, which consists of applying a protective layer over the asphalt surface to help mitigate moisture and oil damage, offer slip resistance, and protect the asphalt from ultraviolet rays from the sun. The problem is that many homeowners are unsure when asphalt sealcoating is needed. Keep reading to learn about the signs that will occur when it is time to have your asphalt sealcoated.
Fading
If your asphalt surface receives direct sunlight for a large part of the day, the asphalt tends to weaken at a faster rate due to the ultraviolet rays heating up the material repeatedly. As a result, the black asphalt pavement fades and turns into a grayish shade. If you notice that your surface is faded, the top coat of the surface has deteriorated as a result of the exposure to the sun and is vulnerable to damage from moisture. Sealcoating can help to restore the asphalt's color, making it look new again.
Cracks
As the temperatures change from one season the next, the asphalt will contract and expand. Over time, this expansion and contraction from the fluctuations in temperatures can cause small cracks to form in the asphalt that may end up growing into large potholes. If this happens, it can result in a safety hazard and damage your vehicle, resulting in expensive repairs. If you notice any patterns of cracking in the pavement, you should consult with a professional to sealcoat your asphalt to help prevent potholes.
Age
The majority of asphalt surfaces need to be sealcoated every three to five years because the sealcoat deteriorates over time as damage is absorbed. If you don't know whether your asphalt surface has ever been sealcoated or you are unable to remember the last time your asphalt was last sealcoated, then it likely means that it is time to schedule an appointment to have your surface sealcoated.
Sealcoating offers many benefits for your home, so it is important to know when it is time for your pavement to receive this type of maintenance. The aforementioned signs are just three ways to know when your surface is in need of a sealcoating application. For more information, get in touch with an asphalt sealcoating service in your local area.
