Asphalt pavements are not a small investment, which means you want to make sure it’s done right and that you stay on top of maintenance needs. Protect your pocketbook and your pavement by applying a quality sealcoat. Sealcoating asphalt pavements can extend the life of the pavement by an average of three to six years. The most cost-effective method of preserving asphalt is with seal coating.
The quality of the pavement sealer will directly impact the result of the sealcoat application. If sup-par, watered down material is used, the durability of the sealcoat will be compromised, which means it won’t last as long as it should. Make sure you’re using a professional contractor who can verify they are using a high-quality sealant. The sealcoat should contain some sand to provide traction for pedestrians and vehicles as well as add durability to the seal. At least two coats should be applied to see optimal results, with each coat getting at least 24 hours to properly dry.
A good option for asphalt that is in good shape without cracking issues or holes is slurry seal. Slurry seal is a type of preservation that doesn’t improve the structural capacity of the asphalt, but it does improve the look of the pavement while also providing protection for 5 to 10 years. It is skid-resistant, offers UV protection (which is a must for Utah’s hot summers), and fills minor cracks in the process. It’s not a repair for damaged concrete, but it is more than just a cosmetic overlay.
If you have some moderate damage, microsurfacing may be necessary to address the entire issue. Microsurfacing fills cracks and small holes, but there’s another benefit with an additional component to the material that makes the sealing more durable than regular seal coating or the cosmetic slurry seal. It is also a great option if you need a quick turnaround, as it’s ready in just one hour. If you’ve been reading our blogs, you know that filling cracks quickly is imperative to preventing water from getting under the pavement and creating bigger issues. Don’t rush a fix on a damaged pavement. You’ve heard the phrase, “do it right, or do it twice,” and this is especially true with pavements.
Of course, with all outdoor projects, there are many factors that contribute to how long something will last. For pavement longevity, factors such as materials used, amount of daily traffic, weather conditions, and proper maintenance will all affect how long your pavement will last. As a general rule, getting your pavement sealed every three years is good practice. This wet winter has taken a toll on many pavements around the valley, so you may want to get a thorough assessment by a professional before spring to ensure you don’t have and issues lurking below.
Go Pave Utah’s experienced team knows exactly what’s needed for Utah pavements to be sealed appropriately. Reach out to us with any questions or concerns.
