Benefits of Asphalt Sealcoating
Because of Asphalts relative poor resistance to UV radiation and chemicals such as melting salts and petroleum products, it is logical to conclude that one should use some sort of sealcoating that would shield the asphalt pavements from these harmful elements that lead to the degradation of your asphalt parking lot. This is in essence the idea behind sealcoating.
Asphalt surfaces can be effectively protected by using a sealcoating which acts as a barrier between the external harmful elements and the asphalt pavement. Usually a coal tar emulsion sealer is used which is highly resistant to water, gas and oil, salt, chemicals, and UV radiation. It is the perfect substance to combat the degradation of your asphalt pavement.
Before sealcoating the asphalt must be cleaned to be free of all dirt, vegetation, and other foreign debris using blowers, sweepers, brooms, and sometimes high pressure washers. Once the pavement is cleaned then any existing oil spots should be primed so that the sealer will adhere. Normally two coats of sealer are applied to the asphalt sealer either by squeegee or spray. Once the seal coating is completed it is very important to give adequate cure time for the coating to keep traffic from the freshly sealed surface for 24 hours. Traffic before 24 hours will cause premature wear and increased tire marking. During this 24 cure period the striping can be accomplished so that after the 24 hours, your parking lot is completely ready for traffic.
Crack Sealing
Another great weapon in the arsenal of the pavement maintenance contractor is crack sealing is done prior to any seal coat applications. If cracks are left unattended, water is able to penetrate to the base soaking and swelling the limestone thus destroying their strength and load bearing capabilities. It is evidenced by “alligator” cracking, sunken areas, and eventually potholes. Cracks at least 1/8″ or wider should be treated with a least a cold pour sealant which will seal the cracks for a year or so. For a longer term repair, hot poured cracks sealant should be used. Hot Pour crack sealant remains flexible for a longer period of time and if used the crack repair can remain effective for 3-7 years.
If one chooses to protect their asphalt surfaces with a sealcoating and crack sealing, the life of the asphalt can at least be doubled and many times tripled at a fraction of the overlay costs.
In fact an estimate from the Asphalt Institute for the cost of an asphalt parking lot over a 15 year period for an unmaintained surface is $39.07 per square yard. By having a regular maintenance program of sealcoating every three years, the cost is $23.84 per square yard.
In real terms if you have a parking lot of 3000 square yards, a savings of $45, 690 over fifteen years or $3,046 per year will result.
Asphalt Appearance
Besides savings in money, another great advantage of seal coating is that a well maintained property increases the value of your property and is more pleasing to your patrons. The first impression of possible tenants or customers is the parking lot.
Is it maintained? Does it look nice? Is it safe? They think to themselves, “If they maintain their parking then they probably maintain their apartments and condominiums.” It is proven by marketing studies and I am sure from your own personal experience, that a well maintained property leads to higher occupancy rates, less turnover, and overall greater satisfaction.
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