Why Would You Seal Coat a Driveway?

Periodically seal coating your asphalt driveway can help preserve it.

An asphalt driveway that was constructed properly can last as long as 20 or 30 years with the appropriate maintenance, which includes seal coating it periodically to preserve it, according to The National Pavement Contractors Association (NPCA).

Deterioration

Asphalt is initially black, but due to oxidation, it starts to fade and becomes a gray color within one or two years of its construction, according to NPCA. In addition to the sun, rain and snow, spills and leaks, such as motor oil, gasoline and other automotive fluids can weaken the asphalt.

Seal Coating

Seal coating protects the driveway from damaging elements and improves its appearance as well, according to the Natural Handyman website.

Intervals

Natural Handyman recommends sealing your driveway every third year to increase the life of the asphalt.

Types

Driveway sealers include water, latex, polymers, clay fillers and coat tar or asphalt. Natural Handyman indicates that sealers containing coal tar offer more resistance to gasoline and oil than those containing asphalt. On the other hand, asphalt-based products have a better smell and improve air quality.

Considerations

Seal coating is not for driveway holes and cracks. Separate products are needed to fill cracks and patch holes, according to the NPCA.

References

• The National Pavement Contractors Association: How Long Will My Driveway Last?
• The Natural Handyman: Driveway Sealants