Why You Should Sealcoat Your Asphalt Parking Lot

Your parking lot sees a lot of traffic and is constantly exposed to the elements, two things that can wear down the asphalt and make it brittle. A little maintenance now and then goes a long way in preventing large problems like potholes, fatigue cracks and upheaval. These issues are typically more expensive and time consuming to fix than routine maintenance.

Sealcoating is one of the most effective ways to protect your parking lot. Read on to learn more about why it’s important and how to know when to sealcoat your lot.

What is Sealcoating?

Sealcoating is the process of applying asphalt or coal tar-based sealer to your parking lot. When applied properly, this sealer helps to protect your asphalt investment, much like staining your deck helps to protect the wood. Many paving companies use coal tar based sealers. This type of sealer performs well, but has been banned by many states and municipalities due to the fact that it is not safe for workers or the environment. Raleigh Paving uses safer, high performance alternative products such as Black Diamond from Gem Seal. 

Why is Sealcoating Important?

In addition to protecting your investment, sealcoating gives your parking lot a rich, deep black appearance. This enhances the look of your lot, making a good impression on customers, clients, vendors and visitors. 

But more importantly, it ensures that your parking lot is as safe as possible. Cracks and uneven pavement pose tripping hazards, while potholes can damage vehicles. You can reduce these risks by regularly sealcoating your lot.

Additional benefits of sealcoating include:

• Prevents oxidation caused by the sun’s rays (which can wear away 50% of the asphalt’s original thickness in just 5 years)
• Adds a barrier to prevent salt, oil, gas and chemical penetration
• Prevents moisture from rain and snow from seeping into pavement during freeze-thaw cycles
• Reduces maintenance costs and can extend the life of your pavement by up to 300%

How to Know When to Sealcoat

The frequency your lot needs to be sealcoated depends on a few variables, such as the amount of traffic it sees, the amount of sun it gets and whether or not fuel spillage occurs. As we mentioned, all of these things contribute to asphalt wear and tear. 

As a general rule, we recommend sealcoating every 2-3 years depending on the above factors. If you’re within that timeframe and unsure if you should sealcoat your parking lot, here are additional signs:

• Routine wear and tear
• Visible damage to the surface such as cracks
• Color change from black to gray

If you have noticed these changes to your lot, it’s best to begin maintenance and repair as soon as possible to avoid more costly damages down the road.

Extend Your Lot’s Life With Sealcoating by Raleigh Paving

We treat lots across North Carolina with over 40,000 gallons of sealant each year, making us one of the largest sealcoat providers in the state. Trust your parking lot to our experienced team and discover the Raleigh Paving difference. Request your free quote online or by calling us at (919) 859-3626.