Whether new asphalt was just laid down in a new parking lot or driveway or it went through a recent restoration, one of the recommended steps that every asphalt contractor recommends is the process of seal coating. What is a sealcoat? What does it do? How much does it cost? In this article, we will address what sealcoating is and explain the estimated cost.
What Is A Sealcoat?
A sealcoat is when a paving professional places a protective layer of sealant on asphalt to protect it from deterioration and extend the useful life of the asphalt. The sealant protects the asphalt from extreme UV rays, fluids that leak from cars and trucks, such as gas and oil, and fills in those areas that are porous to prevent water from entering and causing cracks.
How Much Does Sealcoating Cost?
Although seal coating can be done as a do-it-yourself type activity, it is recommended to spend the extra money that a professional team will cost if you have a large lot to protect. Depending on the location of the project, the average cost of seal coating can cost between $0.10 to $0.30 a square foot. If a person chooses the do-it-yourself route, then the average cost of seal coating is between $0.05 and $0.25 a square foot. For those who wish to seal coat their driveway, you can do so by purchasing the sealant and spreading it on the driveway like you are mopping or painting it.
Additional Supplies
In an ideal situation, a person could just begin seal coating the asphalt without any need for any preparation or equipment. Unfortunately, that is rarely the case, and there are additional costs that a person should be concerned with before beginning the seal coating process. Some common equipment needed before seal coating is as follows:
- A Gas Blower or a High-Pressure Water Hose – to remove debris from the asphalt
- Degreaser – to remove chemicals that may have leaked onto the asphalt, such as gas or oil.
- Scrub Bush – to remove old paint from the asphalt to ensure the seal coating sealant will have nothing preventing it from penetrating through the asphalt.
You need the following supplies to apply the sealcoating:
- Sealer – this is the chemical that you will apply to the asphalt to protect it and extend its use.
- Crack Pour Pot – used to fill cracks in the asphalt.
- Liquid Crack Filler – used in conjunction with the crack pour pot to fill in small cracks.
- Sealcoating Machine – used to cover large areas in a fast and efficient way.
What Are The Major Factors Impacting the Cost Of Sealcoating?
Despite the additional equipment listed above, the two major factors impacting the cost of seal coating are the cost of labor in the region and the quality of seal coating used for the project.
Contact Hicks APC
Whether you need a seal coat for a residential driveway or a commercial parking lot, Hicks APC will provide you with the professional service needed to protect your asphalt for years to come.
