Maintaining your asphalt driveway is an essential part of homeownership, but deciding whether to seal it can be challenging.

At Betz Works, we’ve been providing asphalt paving services to California residents since 1958.

We’ve compiled this quick guide to help you understand the pros and cons of sealing your driveway.

Key Takeaways

  • Driveway sealing involves adding a protective layer to an asphalt driveway. This helps guard against damage from weather, chemicals, and daily wear and tear.
  • Sealing your driveway can make it last longer by protecting it from cracks, potholes, and weather damage.
  • On the downside, sealing your driveway can be expensive and needs regular upkeep. The sealant usually has to be reapplied every 2-3 years.
  • If you’re considering sealing your driveway, contact Betz Works for professional service and an accurate quote: 831-400-8466.

What is Driveway Sealing?

Driveway sealing involves applying a protective coating to an asphalt driveway to make it last longer and look better.

This sealant creates a barrier against water, oil, UV rays, and other damage.

The process usually includes cleaning the driveway, filling in cracks or potholes, and applying a liquid sealant with a brush, squeegee, or sprayer.

Sealing a driveway can improve its durability, reduce repairs, and give it a fresh appearance.

Benefits of Sealing Your Asphalt Driveway

sealing asphalt driveway

Sealing your asphalt driveway has many benefits, including the following:

1. Increased Durability

Applying a sealant adds a protective layer to the driveway, guarding it against daily wear and tear and the elements (sun exposure can cause asphalt to deteriorate over time). 

Fortunately, applying a sealant protects the driveway surface and extends the asphalt’s lifespan.

2. Protection from Water Damage

Water can get into small cracks in the asphalt and cause damage when it freezes and expands. 

Sealing your driveway stops water from getting in, reducing the risk of damage.

3. Improved Appearance

A fresh coat of sealant can significantly enhance your driveway’s look. 

This is especially helpful if you’re planning to sell your home.

4. Easier Maintenance

Sealed driveways are easier to clean and maintain. 

The sealant creates a smooth surface that prevents dirt, oil, and other substances from getting into the asphalt. 

This makes cleaning simpler and reduces the need for repairs.

5. Long-Term Cost-Savings

While there is an initial cost involved in sealing your driveway, it can save you money in the long run by reducing the need for frequent repairs.

This makes it a cost-effective investment for homeowners.

6. Protection Against Spills

Chemicals like motor oil, gasoline, and other automotive fluids can damage asphalt driveways. 

A sealant acts as a barrier, protecting the surface from these chemicals and reducing the risk of stains and structural damage.

The Possible Cons of Sealing Your Asphalt Driveway

Sealing your asphalt driveway has many benefits, but it’s also important to be aware of these potential downsides:

1. Initial Cost

Applying sealant to your driveway can be pricey, especially if you hire a professional. 

The initial cost might put off some homeowners, especially those on a budget. 

However, it’s essential to consider this investment against the long-term savings from less maintenance.

2. Frequent Reapplication

Sealants wear off over time.

Because of this, you’ll need to re-seal the driveway every few years to protect it.

This maintenance can be inconvenient and time-consuming.

3. Potential for Poor Application

While hiring a professional can be expensive, doing it yourself risks a sub-par outcome. 

Misapplying sealant can cause problems like uneven coverage, air bubbles, or peeling. 

This can reduce the sealant’s protection and even create aesthetic issues.

4. Environmental Impact

Some asphalt sealants have chemicals that can harm the environment

When applied, these chemicals can run off into nearby soil and water, causing pollution. 

Homeowners who care about the environment may need to look for eco-friendly sealants – like bio-based asphalt sealers – which can be more expensive and harder to find.

How to Sealcoat a Driveway

sealcoating driveway

Now that you know why sealcoating is so important, here’s a quick overview of how to do it:

  • Preparation: Clean the driveway. Use a broom, leaf blower, or pressure washer to remove debris, dirt, and oil stains. For tough stains, use a degreaser. Make sure the surface is completely dry.
  • Repair Cracks and Holes: Check for cracks or holes. Fill them with a crack filler or patching compound. Let it dry according to the instructions.
  • Mix the Sealant: Before opening the container, stir or shake it thoroughly to ensure it’s evenly mixed (read the label directions). 
  • Apply the Sealant: Start at one end of the driveway and pour a small amount of sealant onto the surface. Use a squeegee or brush to spread the sealant evenly. Work in small sections, applying a thin, even layer to cover the entire driveway uniformly.
  • Let It Cure: Allow the first coat to dry completely according to the manufacturer’s instructions, usually 24-48 hours. Apply a second coat after the first one has cured for extra protection.
  • Cleanup: Once the sealant has fully cured, take off the painter’s tape from the edges. Clean your tools and dispose of leftover materials following local rules. The driveway will be ready to use after the sealant has completely dried.

To learn more about how to sealcoat an asphalt driveway, check out our blog on the topic.

Need Reliable Sealcoating Services? Betz Works can Help!

Sealcoating is crucial to keep your asphalt driveway lasting longer and looking good. 

Sealcoating shields your driveway from weather damage, stops cracks and potholes, and boosts curb appeal, saving you money over time.

Betz Works is the Bay Area’s top driveway sealing contractor, known for our expertise and quality services.

Ready to start your paving project? Contact us today to request your quote!

FAQs

When Should I Seal My Driveway?

The best time to seal your driveway is during the warmer months, typically from late spring to early fall when temperatures are consistently above 50°F.

This ensures the sealant cures properly and sticks well to the asphalt.

Avoid sealing right after it rains or if rain is expected in the next 24-48 hours, as moisture can stop the sealant from setting correctly.

Ideally, seal your driveway every two to three years to keep it looking good and protected. However, if you notice significant wear, cracks, or fading, you may need to apply sealant sooner.

Regular maintenance will extend the life of your driveway and keep it in top condition.

How Long Does Driveway Sealer Last?

Typically, driveway sealer lasts between two to three years, but this can vary based on several factors:

  • Climate: Harsh weather, like intense sunlight, heavy rainfall, or freezing temperatures, can shorten the sealer’s lifespan.
  • Traffic: Driveways with high volumes of vehicles or heavy weights may need more frequent applications.
  • Sealer Quality: A high-quality sealer can extend the protection period, effectively preventing cracks, potholes, and other damage.

To keep your driveway in top condition, inspect it for damage every few months and reapply the sealer as needed.

Consistent maintenance will ensure it remains protected and looking great for as long as possible. 

How Often Should I Seal My Driveway?

How often you should seal your driveway depends on various factors.

Generally, we recommend resealing the surface at least every two to three years.

However, if your driveway is subjected to harsh weather, intense sunlight, heavy rain, or freezing temperatures, you should do it more often.

Frequent traffic, especially from heavy vehicles, also wears the surface out faster, requiring more frequent sealing.

The quality of the sealer matters, too; better sealers last longer.

With all this in mind, regularly check your driveway for cracks or fading and apply sealant as needed. Proper sealing will help your driveway last longer and look better.

Should I Sealcoat or Repave My Pavement?

Deciding between sealcoating and repaving your pavement depends on its current condition and damage.

Generally, sealcoating is best for paved surfaces with minor cracks, fading, or wear. 

It won’t fix major issues in the driveway, but it can prolong the life of the pavement and improve its appearance. 

It’s also cost-effective and good for preventative maintenance.

Repaving, on the other hand, is necessary for paved surfaces with large cracks, potholes, or structural weaknesses. 

Repaving involves removing the old surface and laying down new asphalt. 

While it’s more expensive and labor-intensive than resealing, it provides a long-term solution for the driveways that need it.

How Much Does It Cost to Seal Your Driveway?

The cost of sealing your driveway depends on several factors, including the size of the driveway, the type of sealant, and the condition of the pavement. 

On average, you can expect to pay between $0.50 to $1.50 per square foot for sealcoating. 

However, prices may vary based on your location and the contractor’s expertise.

Other factors that can affect the cost include the type of sealant chosen (coal tar-based or asphalt emulsion and the number of coats you apply.

To get the best prices, we recommend requesting quotes from multiple contractors. Ask about the types of sealants they use and any preparation work required. 

Investing in high-quality sealcoating can save you money in the long run by extending the life of your driveway and reducing the need for expensive repairs or repaving.