FAQs
DrivewayWorks in Stratford, Connecticut, provides everything you need to know about sealcoating pavement. Through our years of experience, we have gained a deep knowledge of the scientific aspects of this industry. You can come to us with your questions and we will do our best to answer you.
Why should I have my driveway sealed?
Sealcoating asphalt is a type of preventative maintenance that should be done to protect your driveway or parking lot. Asphalt is a porous material that is outside in the elements all year long. We drive on it, shovel it, plow it, spill gasoline on it, and drip oil on it. It needs to be protected to last for a long time, just the way we would paint a piece of wood to protect it from rotting and splitting. If properly maintained, the lifespan of your driveway can easily be extended from 10-15 years to 25-30.
Will having my driveway sealcoated "visually" erase the cracks?
No, all cracks large enough to be crack filled will be water-tight to slow their growth and prevent erosion under the driveway. The cracks will not be as noticeable, but you will still be able to see them.
I have a new/resurfaced driveway. How long should I wait to have it sealcoated?
You should wait 6 months to a year for the first coating. The asphalt that is used to hold the stones together is also present on the surface of the driveway after it is installed. Waiting 6 to 12 months allows the vehicle traffic and weather to wear off this asphalt layer, which then allows the sealer to adhere properly.
Will sealcoating my driveway cover oil spots?
It is a fact that cure-alls are rare in pavement maintenance, regardless of whether the repair problem involves patching, sealcoating, or surface preparation. All surface treatment methods and materials have limitations like oil, grease, gasoline, and other automotive fluids that have dripped or spilled onto the pavement. These substances must be cleaned off and the pavement primed before sealcoating, or the sealcoat won't properly adhere to the pavement.
How long do I need to stay off the surface after sealcoating?
We recommend staying off the surface for approximately 24 to 36 hours. In most cases, this is sufficient. However, drying in rough areas may take longer because of the thickness of the new surface. Shaded areas may also take longer to dry.