Summer is over; fall is here. Temperatures are down, and football is on. But football isn’t the
only thing you have to think about. Winter is coming, and some household maintenance may need to be done to prepare.
For example, should you apply driveway sealcoating before winter? A proper seal is important for avoiding cracks and potholes.
How Often Should I Sealcoat?
Sealing doesn’t need to be done every year. So how do you know if this is the year?
A driveway sealcoat usually lasts 2-4 years, but its life expectancy depends on weather and use. Look carefully for these signs:
- Cracks 1/8” or larger
- Patchy, dry look
- Pitting
- Gravelly surface
Pits and cracks allow water to get in and do more damage. A dry, unprotected look may indicate UV damage that could eventually break down the binder material in the asphalt.
Do It Myself or Hire a Contractor?
It can be a messy process, but some homeowners choose to do the driveway sealcoating themselves. The overall process is:
- Ensure the area is ready – rope off the driveway, cut back the grass, and remove any decorative items nearby.
- Remove all debris from cracks and pits. Apply crack filler and let dry.
- Remove any remaining surface debris (use a leaf blower and brooms).
- Wearing safety glasses, cut in the edges of the driveway, applying a coal tar based sealer with a handheld brush.
- Still wearing safety glasses, apply the remaining sealer by pouring it out on the driveway and spreading it thinly from side to side to the cut-in areas. Excess sealer should not be allowed into grass or drains. Allow to dry at least 36 hours.
If you choose to hire a contractor, ensure they have experience and a good reputation, and that they use commercial quality materials. Ask about their process, too. Contact multiple companies to compare. Ask about their square footage rate, and ensure you know your driveway dimensions so you can check their estimate.
Ready to have it done right? Contact Wolf Paving for a sealcoating estimate today!
You may also be interested in these articles:
