Asphalt is a versatile paving material used for everything from driveways to parking lots. It’s durable and long-lasting, making it a great choice for any project. Asphalt paving is a process that many contractors can do with ease. After your asphalt has been installed, you might be left wondering how long after paving should asphalt be sealed.
Asphalt consists of bitumen, which is a tar-like substance, and aggregate, which typically includes gravel or sand. Combining these two materials produces a robust and long-lasting asphalt surface able to resist heavy usage.
The Paving Process of a New Asphalt Driveway
The process of asphalt installation begins with the grading of the surface. After the surface has been graded, a layer of gravel is spread over it and compacted to provide a stable foundation for asphalt. The gravel provides a level surface so the asphalt can be laid more evenly.
The foundation is prepared beforehand, and the asphalt is heated to approximately 300 degrees Fahrenheit. After the asphalt is mixed with aggregate, it is spread on the surface that will be paved. A roller presses down the asphalt and smooths it out.
Sealing Your Fresh Asphalt Surface
Your new asphalt driveway will last as long and look better if you sealcoat it. There are many advantages to sealing your asphalt driveway or parking lot:
Precautions against natural elements
Too much sun’s ultraviolet rays can make asphalt dry and brittle, causing it to crack. The asphalt’s sealant offers protection from the sun’s rays, keeping the pavement in better condition.
Avoids oil stains
It is difficult to remove oil and grease stains from an asphalt driveway. Sealing your asphalt will help to prevent harmful chemicals and stains from setting in.
Minimizes fading and discoloration
The sun’s rays can dull the asphalt’s color over time. Sealing it will help maintain its original hue.
Makes cleaning easier
While unsealed asphalt is susceptible to dirt and other debris, sealed asphalt will not allow anything to penetrate its surface, making it much easier to clean.
Preventing potholes and cracks
Unsealed asphalt is more susceptible to developing cracks and potholes. Sealing the asphalt driveway surface helps to fill in any cracks and prevents new ones from forming. It protects your pavement and keeps it looking like new for longer.
The Best Time to Seal Your New Driveway
While asphalt is a tough material, it still needs proper care and maintenance to prevent weathering or other damage.
You’ve just installed a new asphalt driveway, and now you’re wondering how long you should wait to seal it. For best results, you should wait six to twelve months after the asphalt has been installed before sealing the driveway or parking lot.
Oxidation process
It occurs when oxygen and sunlight interact with the asphalt’s oils, breaking them down and causing them to evaporate. It happens faster in warmer weather conditions, but it still takes time for all the oils to evaporate completely.
Drying Process
The drying process occurs after the oils have evaporated. Any residual moisture left in the asphalt will be allowed to dry out during this process to ensure your sealant is properly applied and adheres to the surface of the asphalt.
Sealing Process
Once your asphalt has gone through the oxidation and drying processes, it is ready to be sealed. The excellent time to seal your asphalt is six to twelve months after installation. By waiting a year before sealing, you can ensure that all the oils have evaporated and that any excess moisture has dried.
Curing Process
The curing process is the last step of asphalt installation after the surface has been sealed. Any remaining moisture will evaporate, strengthening the bond between the sealant and the asphalt. It is an important part of the process that helps ensure your pavement can withstand heavy usage.
How Frequent Should Your Asphalt Driveway Be Sealed
When deciding how frequently to seal your asphalt driveway, you should take the following factors into account:
Climate
You may need to seal your asphalt more often if your area receives a lot of rain or snow. The sealer may break down and deteriorate more quickly due to humidity and moisture caused by weather conditions.
Traffic
How frequently your asphalt driveway or parking lot needs to be sealed depends on how much traffic it receives. Sealing a driveway as often as a busy parking lot will be necessary
Age and Condition
You won’t have to seal a newer asphalt driveway or parking lot as much as you would an older one. Paving a parking lot with asphalt costs less in the long run because it doesn’t deteriorate as quickly.
If you are uncertain whether your asphalt driveway needs to be resealed, you can do a simple test. To test if your surface needs to be resealed, add a small amount of water and see how long it takes to soak in. If you are still not convinced, contact A1 Construction Services for a free consultation.
Hiring a Professional Paving Contractor
A1 Construction Services in Houston, Texas, is a family-owned and operated business specializing in residential and commercial asphalt applications. We have more than 25 years of experience in the industry and are fully licensed and insured.
Our professional team can help you determine how often your asphalt needs to be sealed, considering the surface’s age, the climate, and the amount of traffic it gets. We are here to provide you with the best possible service and help you maximize the lifespan of your asphalt.
Contact A1 Construction Services today for a free estimate for your asphalt sealing needs in Houston, Texas!