Protecting your blacktop is essential to preserve its life span, and key to that is knowing when it’s time to have it professionally sealcoated. There are several signs, and they are easy enough to spot — if you know what to look for.
Vegetation breaking through
Grass and dandelions will break through any slight vulnerability in your asphalt at a phenomenal rate. Any air and light that penetrates through your blacktop will increase plant growth. By the time you see green bursting through, you can be sure it has already established a resilient root structure. This tends to happen at the asphalt’s borders, especially when next to turf and other landscaping. Before having a new sealcoat completed, be sure to remove as much of the growth as possible and seal any cracks.
Water issues and cracking
When asphalt is freshly sealed, you’ll notice a clear difference in the way water beads. As the sealcoat breaks down, water begins seeping into the asphalt, triggering a breakdown below the surface. This happens even faster in colder climates due to freeze-melt cycles. If you see networks of cracks forming, the process is well underway and will accelerate with continued exposure to:
- Ice and snow.
- Salt and other deicers.
- Oil and automotive fluids.
- Rain and humidity.
- UV rays.
Faded appearance
We’ve all seen the luster of new asphalt right after road construction or in a freshly laid parking lot. The darker blacktop and brighter shine are not just matters of appearance — they indicate that the asphalt is better able to withstand the elements and resist corrosion of all kinds. Your surface can have that shine once more, along with a longer life span, with a fresh sealcoat.
Sealcoating that lasts
A1 Professional Asphalt & Sealing is the preferred asphalt and asphalt-repair company throughout the Midwest. We use only the best sealcoating products on the market for ultra-durability and traction, ensuring that your property is well maintained and that your guests are safe. If you see any of the above signs but need an expert’s opinion, give us a call at 888.223.9797 or contact us online. Our experienced service technicians will be glad to assist you.