Many homeowners will opt for an asphalt driveway over concrete for quite a few reasons. It is affordable to install, provides your property with the support that it needs, and offers durability. However, the only way to fully take advantage of the benefits that come with an asphalt driveway is by having it correctly sealed with driveway sealing services.
When you think about driveway sealing, what comes to mind? Is it a driveway that is protected from the elements and looks new for years on end? Or is it something else? No matter what your answer is, driveway sealing can be an important investment in your home!
The Pros and Cons of Driveway Sealing
Just like anything, there are pros and cons that come with sealing your driveway. Here are some of the most important ones to consider:
The Pros of Driveway Sealing
Protects your asphalt from damage
When you invest in driveway sealing services your asphalt is left protected from the numerous elements that can damage it throughout the year. These services will help stop cracks and erosion from occurring to your driveway and leaving you in need of costly repairs. Driveway sealing also helps to give your asphalt protection against issues caused by extreme and prolonged exposure to heat. It will also give you a water-resistant layer that helps prevent water damage from snow, hail, and rain.
Improves curb appeal
A driveway that is properly sealed will not only be protected from the damages mentioned above, but it will also look great! After driveway sealing services are performed, your driveway will have a smooth and glossy finish that is sure to catch the eye of anyone who sees it. This can be a huge plus if you are looking to sell your home in the future.
It works with every type of asphalt
When you choose to use asphalt for your driveway there are several different options for you to choose from and each has its specific traits to consider.
- Glassphalt- This type of asphalt uses aggregate that includes crushed and recycled glass as part of the surface. Choosing this option allows you to reuse more items when your driveway is being installed however it does cause higher wear and tear to your tires.
- Cold-mix- This asphalt uses soapy water to emulsify the asphalt before it is mixed with the aggregate. Because it isn't the strongest of the options it is typically used in low traffic areas or as a patching material.
- Hot-mix- This is a product with less viscosity and moisture allowing it to form a surface that is tough, durable, and suitable for high-traffic areas.
- Warm-mix- The last type of asphalt is warm-mix. This product uses additives that reduce the heat requirements and also reduce the number of fossil fuels used to create it while lowering fume levels.
Regardless of the type of asphalt you use, driveway sealing services can benefit each and every one of them.
Allows for efficient moisture runoff
Another pro that comes with driveway sealing services is a surface that allows for efficient water runoff when the moisture hits. This is especially beneficial if you live in an area that experiences a lot of rainfall. Driveway sealing will also help prevent any flexing and distortion which helps to reduce the threat of cracks forming throughout your driveway.
Prevents Potholes
One of the most common driveway issues that people face is potholes. These can be a huge hassle and can cause a lot of damage to your car if you hit them. Potholes form when water gets underneath the asphalt and causes it to weaken and break apart. When driveway sealing services are performed, this sealant creates a barrier between the water and asphalt that will help to prevent potholes from forming.
It can make other chores easier to finish
If you live in an area that experiences heavy snowfall during the winter, driveway sealing services will help to make snow shoveling and clearing easier. A sealed driveway creates a smooth surface that makes it easier for your shovel to move across the surface and your snowblower or plow will also encounter fewer issues.
The Cons of Driveway Sealing
Now that you know about some of the pros that come with driveway sealing let’s look at some of the cons.
Specific weather conditions are needed for driveway sealing
The first con that can come with driveway sealing is that it requires specific weather conditions. Because of this, you have to be aware of the weather when the project begins. The general rule of thumb for sealing your driveway is that it should be completed before the first frost of the season. This is because the colder temperatures will negatively impact the performance of the sealant. When there is a threat of freezing temperatures it is not unusual for a sealer to fail.
There is a waiting period for the best results
The second con to driveway sealing is that you have to wait for the best results. This means that you can’t drive or walk on the driveway until the sealant dries which generally takes around 24 hours. If you are not careful, this could lead to tracking in dirt and other debris onto your newly sealed driveway.
It will make your driveway hotter in the summer
The last con to driveway sealing is that it will make your driveway hotter in the summer. The sealant creates a layer on top of the asphalt that retains the heat. This can be problematic if you live in an area with hot summers because it can make your driveway extremely uncomfortable to walk or drive on.
Trust the Professionals to Handle Driveway Sealing
Driveway sealing services can be a great way to protect your driveway from the elements and extend its lifespan. It is important to weigh the pros and cons of driveway sealing before deciding if it is the right choice for you. When you decide that driveway sealing is the best option, be sure to trust the professionals to handle the job. They will have the experience and knowledge to seal your driveway properly and ensure that you get the most out of your investment. Contact our team at Sealcoating 2.0 for more information about our driveway sealing services!