The curing time of the asphalt is usually about 24 hours, but it can take up to 72 hours for the asphalt to be completely set. During this time, you should avoid driving on the driveway or parking on it. Once the asphalt is completely set, the next thing you have to do is to sealcoat the surface.
But when should you sealcoat a new asphalt driveway? If you want to know more, we suggest you continue reading as we’re going to talk about this topic in today’s article.
When Is The Right Time To Seal A Newly Installed Asphalt
Driveway sealant is a liquid that is applied to the surface of a driveway. It is usually black in color and helps protect the asphalt from the elements. Sealing your driveway on a regular basis can help extend its life.
Typically, it is recommended to wait at least four to six weeks before sealing your new driveway. This will give the asphalt time to cure and set properly. If you seal it too early, the sealant may not adhere properly and could lead to cracks and other damage down the road.
It is also important to note that you should never seal a new driveway in the winter. The cold weather can cause the sealant to crack and damage the asphalt. If you must seal your new driveway in the winter, be sure to wait until the weather warms up and there is no chance of snow or ice.
Sealing your new asphalt driveway is an important part of protecting it from the elements. By waiting at least four to six weeks, you can be sure that the sealant will adhere properly and help protect your driveway for years to come.
Aside from that, asphalt sealcoating should be done every 3-5 years. And the frequency with which you will need to seal your driveway will depend on a few factors, such as the climate, the condition of the driveway, and how much traffic the driveway sees.
To be specific, climate can play a significant role in how soon you will need to seal your driveway. For example, if you live in an area with a lot of rain, you will need to seal it more often than if you live in an area with little precipitation. The combination of sun and rain can also take a toll on your asphalt, so it’s important to be proactive about protecting it.
In the same way, the condition of your driveway can be a factor in how soon you will need to sealcoat it. For example, if the driveway is new, has been sealed before or has no cracks or holes, you may only need to seal it every 3-5 years. However, if the driveway is old, unsealed or has cracks and holes, you will likely need to seal it every year.
And how much traffic your driveway sees will be a major factor in how soon you should sealcoat it. If the driveway is constantly seeing a lot of traffic, then it will wear down faster and you will need to seal it more often. On the other hand, if there isn’t as much traffic, then you may only need to seal it every few years.
Which Sealant To Use
There are a few types of sealants that can be used in sealcoating a driveway. The most common type is an asphalt emulsion, which is a type of sealant made from asphalt, water, and emulsifiers. This type of sealant is usually less expensive than others, and it can be applied using a brush, roller, or sprayer.
Another type of sealant is acrylic latex, which is made from acrylic resin and water. This type of sealant is more durable than the asphalt emulsion, but it can also be more expensive. It can be applied using a brush, roller, or sprayer, and it dries quickly to form a protective coating.
When it comes to choosing the right sealant for your driveway, there are a few factors you’ll need to take into consideration. The first is the climate where you live. If you live in a hot, humid climate, you’ll want to use a sealant that can withstand those conditions.
Another factor to consider is the age of your driveway. If it’s relatively new, a less aggressive sealant will likely be sufficient. If your driveway is older and has started to show signs of wear and tear, you’ll need a sealant that can provide more protection.
In general, latex-based sealants are less aggressive than acrylic or epoxy-based sealants, so they may be a better option if your driveway is older or in poor condition.
Who Should Sealcoat Your Driveway
Asphalt sealcoating is a very important part of asphalt driveway maintenance, and should be done by professionals only. Sealcoating protects the asphalt from weathering and oxidation, which can cause it to become brittle and crack. It also helps to keep the driveway looking new for longer. Professional sealcoating contractors have the experience and equipment necessary to do the job right, so it’s best to leave it to the experts.