What You Should Know About Sealing Your Asphalt Driveway
Asphalt is long-lasting and also weather resistant. Unlike other materials, such as concrete, asphalt expands and contracts with extreme temperatures, making it a great option in areas of the country with winter weather. However, to keep an asphalt driveway in the best shape possible, a sealant must be applied. Here's what you should know about asphalt sealing.
You Need to Prepare Your Driveway
The first thing that you should know about sealing your driveway is that there's more to it than simply adding a coat of sealant. Before you start the process, you will need to clean your driveway and ensure that it is free of any damage. Before the sealing process begins, asphalt repair in the required areas is essential. Putting a sealant on a damaged area of the driveway can be unsightly and may make the damage more difficult to repair at a later date. Small cracks cost between $1 and $3 per linear foot to repair, while potholes will cost between $2 and $4 per square foot to repair.
Types of Sealcoats
Another thing that you should know is that there is more than one type of sealant that can be used for an asphalt driveway. Determining which option will work best for your needs is the first step to asphalt sealing. Coal tar and asphalt emulsion sealants are affordable options, but they often need to be applied more frequently than more expensive options. Other types of asphalt sealants that may work for your driveway include latex polymer and latex acrylic sealer.
How Much It Costs
When it comes to sealing your asphalt driveway, you can save money by doing it yourself. However, for the best application, you will want to hire a paving contractor. On average, if you decide to tackle this project yourself, you can expect to pay $0.40 per square foot. The cost if you choose to hire a professional is, on average, $1.15 per square foot. Depending on how frequently you use your driveway and the sealant used, you will need to repeat this process every three to five years.
Asphalt sealing is a must if you want to extend the life of your asphalt driveway and protect it from the elements. There are a few things that you should know about the process of sealing. First, your driveway needs to be clean and in good repair before the sealing process begins. Next, there are different types of sealants to choose from. Determining which one works best for your needs and budget is essential. Costs will vary, but overall, asphalt sealing is an affordable process.