Factors to Consider When Choosing a Sealcoat

Sealcoating is an important part of asphalt installation and maintenance. Just like any asset, asphalt requires some protection and routine care to preserve its value. When it comes to choosing a sealcoat for your asphalt pavement, it is important to recognize a few factors that one should consider before making any final purchases.

Continue reading to review some common factors to consider before choosing a sealcoat for your pavement.

Indianapolis Asphalt Seal Coating 317-549-1833 Indianapolis Asphalt Seal Coating 317-549-1833
Indianapolis Asphalt Seal Coating 317-549-1833

How to Extend the Life of Your Pavement

Sealcoats serve multiple purposes for asphalt pavements, primarily for protective and aesthetic reasons. They provide a protective coating on asphalt pavement, preserving its fresh black luster and preventing imperfections on its surface. It is applied by either brush or spray to seal out moisture and prevent cracking, potholes, and other general pavement damages. They are meant to last anywhere between two and four years, depending on the rate of natural wear and tear. They are best known for the uniform black appearance they give pavement, as well as, the degree of protection against moisture. This protection against moisture is the key to preventing cracking, crumbling, and pot holes.

If you are in the market for sealcoat, be sure to consider these important factors before you decide to buy one:

1. Cohesiveness
2. Adhesiveness
3. Preparation Time
4. Cure Time
5. Ease of Workability/Application
6. Elasticity
7. Weather Resistance
8. Moisture Resistance
9. Resistance to Natural Wear and Tear

It is highly recommended to consult a professional paving contractor for advice about choosing the proper sealcoat for your asphalt project. There are various circumstances that can influence the type of sealcoat you should use, and countless brands to choose from. A licensed paver can not only offer you accurate and reliable advice, they can provide the sealcoating service for you at an affordable cost!

Indianapolis Sealcoating for Commercial Pavements and Roads

Call ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for commercial sealcoating and asphalt maintenance services in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our licensed road construction contractors provide a wide range of asphalt and concrete work for commercial and industrial properties, including inspections, installation, replacement, repair, and more. We also offer free estimates and consultations, flexible scheduling, references upon request, and more. Best of all, our work is backed by our 100% Satisfaction Guarantee, so you can rest assure that your investment is sound. Request a free quote, today.

3 Types of Tar-Free Coal Seal Coats for Asphalt

Seal coats are used for a number of reasons. They not only improve the appearance of asphalt by maintaining that desirable uniform dark-black color, but they also protect pavement from oxygen, moisture, natural wear and tear, and other likely damages. Sealcoating is applied by brush or spray methods, and typically lasts anywhere from 2 to 4 years, depending on the region, climate, and other variables. Reapplication is necessary to support longevity and value in asphalt pavements. There are various forms of asphalt mix, most of which are made from emulsions and aggregate materials. Asphalt emulsions are essentially liquids that would otherwise separate without a form of additive.

Continue reading to learn three examples of common coal tar-free asphalt emulsions.

Indianapolis Asphalt Seal Coating 317-549-1833
Indianapolis Asphalt Seal Coating 317-549-1833

Types of Asphalt Seal Coats

Sealcoats are safer and easier to apply when they contain water. After application, the water evaporates, the remaining binders (oils and solids) cure to a perfect uniform lawyer that effectively blocks out moisture and oxygen; two elements that are most damaging to asphalt. Here are three kinds of asphalt seal coats:

Chip Seal

This is a sealcoat asphalt emulsion that is made from 60% asphalt and 40% water. The top is finished with one or more layer of fine aggregate material. This process is often referred to as asphaltic surface treatment, and is frequently used on rural roads with lower volumes of traffic. It is a popular alternative to asphalt re-sealing, but not always the best choice for all pavements. It is primarily used to reinforce roads and make new roads more durable.

Fog Seal Emulsions

Fog seal emulsions are generally 30% binder material, and 50% or more of water. It also contains various polymers and additives to enhance the product’s performance. There are a few different types of fog seal emulsions. They include acrylic emulsions, coal tar pitch emulsions, asphalt petroleum-based emulsions, and Gilsonite® emulsions.

Slurry Sealcoat

Slurry sealcoats are asphalt emulsions that are made with aggregate materials, mineral fillers, and additives. This mixture of ingredients bonds with the pavement surface and creates a barrier against weather, moisture, and oxygen.

Commercial Pavement Installation and Repair in Indianapolis

Call ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for commercial pavement installation and repair services in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our licensed road construction contractors provide a wide range of asphalt and concrete work for commercial and industrial properties, including inspections, installation, replacement, repair, and more. We also offer free estimates and consultations, flexible scheduling, references upon request, and more. Best of all, our work is backed by our 100% Satisfaction Guarantee, so you can rest assure that your investment is sound. Request a free quote, today.