When you maintain your asphalt driveway in Utah, you’ve likely heard about the benefits of sealcoating. A well-known fact that sealcoating can extend the lifespan of your asphalt surface and enhance its visual appeal. However, a common question that arises is whether sealcoating can repair cracks in asphalt. Let’s delve into this topic and separate myth from reality.
THE ROLE OF SEALCOATING
Before we discuss about whether sealcoating can fill the small cracks, let’s understand what sealcoating is and what it does. Sealcoating is a protective layer applied to asphalt surfaces, such as driveways, parking lots, and roads. It serves several critical purposes.
PREVENTING FUTURE DAMAGE
One of the primary causes of asphalt damage is water infiltration. Sealcoating creates a barrier that stops water from getting into the asphalt pavement. This helps prevent cracks and potholes. Additionally, it creates a protective layer that resists the corrosive effects of oil, gasoline, and other chemicals, thus preventing premature asphalt deterioration.
Moreover, it provides a fresh, jet-black appearance to your asphalt, enhancing its curb appeal and making it look well-maintained.
CRACK REPAIR: MYTH VS. REALITY
Now, let’s address the myth: Can sealcoating repair existing cracks in your asphalt? The short answer is NO, sealcoating cannot fix existing cracks. Sealcoating is a preventive measure, not a corrective one. Sealcoating actively protects your asphalts’ surface layer from damage and erosion, rather than addressing existing issues.
CRACK FILLING: THE CORRECTIVE MEASURE
If your asphalt has visible cracks, it’s essential to understand the difference between sealcoating and crack filling. While sealcoating is a preventive measure, crack filling is a corrective one. Crack filling involves the application of a specialized material into the cracks to repair and seal them.
PREVENTING FUTURE CRACKS
Preventing future cracks is crucial for maintaining the integrity of your asphalt surfaces. Crack filling not only addresses existing cracks but also plays a vital role in preventing them from expanding further.
Filling existing cracks creates a barrier that stops moisture and debris from getting into the asphalt. This helps prevent more damage. Plus, filling the cracks is crucial for keeping your asphalt surfaces strong and looking good for a long time.
THE PREVENTIVE POWER OF SEALCOATING
Even though sealcoating can’t repair existing cracks, it’s excellent at stopping new ones from appearing. By forming a waterproof barrier, sealcoating keeps water out of the asphalt, which is a reason how cracks form. This is especially important in areas like Utah, where freeze thaw cycle can make cracks worse.
Moreover, sealcoating blocks harmful UV rays that can cause asphalt to become brittle and more susceptible to cracking. Additionally, it resists the oxidation process, helping to maintain the asphalt’s flexibility and resilience.
CHOOSE ASPHALT EXPERTS FOR YOUR MAINTENANCE NEEDS
Asphalt Experts, the trusted asphalt maintenance and repair professionals in Utah. We provide various professional asphalt services to maintain your asphalt surfaces in top condition. We’re experts in everything from filling asphalt cracks to repairing concrete cracks and applying sealcoating. Trust us to help you take care of your asphalt repair investment.
Trust Asphalt Experts – Your Partner for Asphalt Care Excellence in Utah.
Clearfield