FAQ About Commercial Sealcoating
Rain, UV rays, and common chemicals like oil can degrade the surface of the asphalt, causing damage and cracking down the line. Luckily, hiring an
asphalt contractor for sealcoating services can help extend the life of your parking lot. Here is a brief overview of common questions surrounding professional sealcoating.
5 Common Questions About Asphalt Sealcoating
Why should I sealcoat my parking lot?
Your parking lot is a significant investment in your commercial property that needs to be protected. Over time, asphalt deteriorates due to factors such as harsh weather and exposure to chemicals like oil and de-icers. Luckily, sealcoating forms an outer barrier on your asphalt to protect your parking lot from this wear and tear, which can extend the life of your lot and save you money in the long run.
When is the best time of year to sealcoat?
Due to the nature of sealcoating application, which involves laying down wet sealant and allowing it to dry, asphalt contractors advise scheduling sealcoating services in early summer or late spring. The best weather conditions for this service are dry, sunny days with a temperature range of 60 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. If there is a good chance of rain in the forecast, you may need to reschedule your sealcoating application.
Can I sealcoat after asphalt installation?
It may be tempting to schedule a sealcoat application right after having new asphalt installed, but it's important to wait at least 60 days after the new lot asphalt is installed. New pavement has surface oils that will inhibit the sealer from fully adhering to the asphalt. This oil will naturally dissipate over time due to oxidation and rain, so asphalt contractors recommend waiting two to three months for ideal sealcoating conditions. If you can spread water on the surface of new asphalt and it doesn’t bead up, the pavement is ready for sealing.
When can I drive on newly sealcoated asphalt?
A parking lot freshly sealed should be left alone for at least 24 hours. It would be best if you allowed the sealer to cure before you can safely re-open the lot, which can take anywhere from one to two days. The time needed to cure the sealer is based on humidity, temperature, and sunlight; with ideal weather conditions, most lots are safe to use after 24 hours.
Will I need to close my whole parking lot?
Asphalt contractors understand that you might want your business to remain open while having your parking lot seal-coated. In this situation, most contractors will offer to seal the lot in sections to ensure you have adequate parking for your commercial property while performing asphalt maintenance.
