The ASMA organization brings together asphalt maintenance professionals from all over the globe in order to further advance the progress and awareness of the asphalt emulsion industry.

An excerpt:

“We are excited to announce that A.S.M.A., the Asphalt Sealcoat Manufacturers Association, has reemerged as the newly formed ASMA-USA. This new organization was formed in 2020 to bring together manufacturers, contractors, vendors, and customers of asphalt emulsion sealcoat. ASMA-USA’s membership includes top leaders in the industry who intend to promote the benefits of and further advance the technological achievements of asphalt emulsion sealcoat on a global scale.

“Asphalt emulsion sealcoat has been the primary choice of sealcoat among manufacturers, contractors, property management companies, and government agencies on the West Coast for over 40 years,” says Robert Archie, newly-elected President of ASMA-USA.

“The vast market there kept most asphalt emulsion sealcoat companies thriving. When A.S.M.A. was originally created in 1992, our West Coast members were focused on Regional goals. For example, A.S.M.A. was successful in getting their specs adopted by Cal Trans; a huge achievement at the time. But as we continue to see coal tar bans across the country and the need for consistent viable alternatives in all states, we believe this is the time to ensure customers receive accurate reliable info on asphalt emulsion sealcoat.”

Some of ASMA-USA’s members already have a national presence. Their expansion efforts have had a powerful positive response. Not only did these ASMA-USA manufacturers offer a high-quality alternative to coal tar, but also a non-toxic one with little to no PAHs (polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons). For more info on PAHs, readers can refer to the extensive research at: https://coaltarfreeusa.com.

One of the original members of A.S.M.A. and a driving force behind the new organization, Secretary Jerome Jacobs, says,” It was time to bring all of our knowledge and expertise on asphalt emulsion sealcoat to the forefront. We have experts that have been in the industry for over 50 years willing to mentor and help shape our industry. All the pieces have really come together. That valuable expertise along with our new website and marketing technology will give professionals the true information they need to make important sealcoating decisions.”

ASMA-USA is already preparing for broad membership across the country as well as international membership. High-profile members such as Tom Ennis, founder of Coaltarfreeusa.com and ASMA-USA’s newly elected Director of DOT, Specifications & Governmental/Regulatory Affairs lend substantial credibility to ASMA-USA’s mission. Their focus is not only awareness but to also raise the bar on sealcoat’s environmental impact.

It’s right there in ASMA’s mission statement… ASMA-USA “was formed with the expressed objective for promoting the use of asphalt emulsion-based sealcoats for the preservation and protection of asphalt surfaces, with a special emphasis on safeguarding human and environmental health. The mission of ASMA-USA is to advance asphalt emulsion-based sealcoating for pavement preservation through the full utilization of advancements in materials, equipment, while keeping the impact on the human and environment to an absolute minimum.”

Other elected officers include Vice President Carl Reed (Asphalt Coatings Engineering), Treasurer Larry Mechem (RaynGuard Protective Materials), Dir. Northeast Richard Williams (Dark Force Sealcoat Distributing), Dir. Southeast Jason Weaver (EcoShield Asphalt Products), Dir. Mid-South Martha Moore (Seal-Tite of Arklahoma), Dir. Midwest John Schneider (Mix-Tek Pavement Solution) and Dir. West Cliff Cooper (Pacific Sealcoat Distributors).”

Fore more information, please contact Sara Weaver.

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Coal Tar Pitch, also known as Coal Tar or Pitch, is a hazardous chemical called a volatile. It is listed on the Right to Know Hazardous Substance List with many organizations including OSHA, DOT, NFPA, NTP, IARC and more. Coal Tar is a flammable liquid used as a base for coatings or paint, in paving and as a binder for asphalt. This chemical is a dangerous fire hazard as a fire from this product produces poisonous gases. Coal Tar is also a known human carcinogen or cancer-causing substance.

Coal Tar and the Environment

Coal Tar is so detrimental to the environment that the EPA requires any spills or leaks of this chemical to be handled as hazardous waste. Also, companies that use this chemical must also follow hazardous substance regulations in the containment and disposal of this chemical. Run-off from Coal Tar seal coated pavement contains high concentrations of a toxic substance called Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons or PAHs. PAHs are harmful to human life and toxic to aquatic life when it makes its way into our rivers, lakes, streams and ponds. Even more concerning is that Coal Tar-based sealants abrade over time and become part of the dust on the road where it is dispersed by wind, rain, car tires and even your feet into surrounding areas. This disbursement is how PAHs end up in soil and the surrounding environment–even as part of the dust inside your home.

Run-off into lakes, streams, ponds, rivers and other waterways have a disastrous effect, killing fish and causing fish embryos in the water to mutate. It also ends up in our storm systems through run-off into sewers and drains. Even worse, the toxicity of PAHs can be intensified by sunlight, making this component of Coal Tar even more deadly to aquatic, animal and human life. PAHs not only impact water quality but also air quality. Testing has shown that Coal Tar seal-coated pavement continues to release PAHs into the air for at least eight years after application. Experts agree that new applications of Coal Tar-based sealcoating release more PAHs in a year than the total annual vehicle emissions of PAHs.

Pitch Black vs Coal Tar

Coal Tar Pitch is a hazardous, cancer-causing, environmentally devastating product. That’s why EcoShield manufactures Pitch Black, a non-toxic, non-carcinogenic, eco-friendly alternative to Coal Tar Pitch that not only eliminates the environmental impacts but is safe and holds up better and longer. When you know better, you can choose better and demand better for your community and your neighborhood. To learn more about Pitch Black, check out our product information page here: https://www.ecoshieldasphalt.tempurl.host/#ecofriendly. And if you have questions, we’d love to answer them so give us a call!

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1. Saves money – Costs of maintaining pavement’s condition is far lower than the cost of significant repairs or replacement. Pavement maintenance saves money.

2. Better traffic flow – Pavement that is kept in good condition requires fewer traffic delays due to construction. Pavement maintenance prevents construction-related traffic delays.

3. Extends the service life of the pavement – Pavement maintenance helps extend the service life of your paved road or lot by keeping up with small repairs and preventing major distresses so your paved area remains in good condition for a longer period of time.

4. Reduces damage to vehicles – Pavement maintenance helps prevent damage to vehicles caused by potholes and other pavement distresses by keeping the road in good condition. Good pavement maintenance and management reduces road hazards for vehicles.

5. Protects the environment – Pavement maintenance generally uses 80% less of the earth’s non-renewable resources when compared to major repairs or replacement. Good pavement management is good for the environment and protects our planet.

Not only is pavement replacement expensive, but it’s also harmful for the environment, creates delays for drivers and creates inconvenience. The benefits of pavement maintenance and management far outweigh the expense and impacts of pavement replacement or major repairs. Keeping pavement in good condition from the beginning helps ward off serious structural issues and extends the life of the paved road or lot. For more information about pavement maintenance, contact EcoShield Asphalt Products today.

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1. Faded line striping – Sunlight exposure fades lines, arrows and other painted markings on your pavement. You might do well to set aside budget for re-striping the lot once the summer heat and intense sunlight is over for the year.

2. Tracking – Asphalt can withstand high temperatures to a degree. However, a particularly sweltering day (or several) can soften the asphalt’s surface layer to the extent that granules of it begin to stick to car tires and even the bottom of shoes.

3. Weakened pavement – UV rays from the sun and water together can cause weakening of the asphalt. This leads to cracks, uneven surfaces and the formation of potholes that can damage cars.

4. Water infiltration – If you notice standing water on your pavement after a rainstorm that doesn’t drain away, this is cause for concern. Your drainage system should drain away all the excess water. Standing water on your pavement can lead to or indicate water infiltration, which can damage the asphalt foundation below.

The best defense for how summer heat impacts your commercial lot is preparation. Preparing for the summer heat by filling cracks, repairing damaged areas and applying protective sealcoating to keep water out and protect your asphalt is key. Commercial lots are expensive to repave and it’s much more cost effective to anticipate the potential damage that can be caused during the summer season and protect your lot’s asphalt before the brutal summer hits. If you have questions about protecting your commercial parking lot from the summer heat, call EcoShield!

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1. Seals in asphalt oils
2. Seals out water/moisture
3. Seals out UV radiation
4. Provides a non-slip surface
5. Asbestos-free
6. Non-carcinogenic
7. Non-flammable
8. Non-toxic and has no materials hazardous to human health or the environment
9. Environmentally-friendly and safe for diverse and protected ecosystems
10. Dries quickly with a deep, long-lasting black color that doesn’t easily fade
11. Works well with oil-based or water-based striping paint
12. Easy to clean up with water
13. Can be applied to new asphalt sooner than traditional coal tar
14. Can be applied to a wide variety of spaces
15. Prolongs the life of asphalt pavement
16. Fills in pavement voids and cracks
17. Non-tracking on shoes or tires
18. Protects your investment in your asphalt surfaces
19. Easy to apply with a spray or squeegee application
20. More durable and lasts longer than coal tar sealcoating

Pitch Black is a safe alternative to harmful and toxic coal tar sealcoating. It is safe for the environment and safe for human health. It doesn’t track into homes or indoor spaces and stays outdoors where it is applied. Western states have been using Pitch Black for nearly 40 years with amazing results that last longer and protect local ecosystems. EcoShield is your local manufacturer of Pitch Black emulsion sealcoat. Have questions? We have answers. Let us protect your asphalt, your people and your environment with Pitch Black!

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Clean it Up – Clean any debris, oil, car fluids, dirt, leaves or other mess from the pavement. If possible, have it power washed before temperatures become too cold for a more effective clean-down.

Protect Edges – Make sure to edge your pavement to protect it from grass and other plants. Their roots can break through the pavement’s edges, making it easier for water to penetrate and cause larger cracks.

Fill Cracks – Inspect pavement for cracks, chips and crumbling. Even little cracks can mean large problems later on. Water can get into cracks and freeze during the colder evenings and mornings and expand, enlarging the crack. Have cracks filled and addressed before the winter chill hits.

Look for Pooling Water – Pooling water on your pavement usually means it is uneven, suggesting potential problems with your sublayers. During freezing temperatures, pooling water can contribute to the creation of potholes. It can also freeze over and present a slip and fall hazard.

Move Heavy Equipment – If you have heavy equipment on your pavement, you’ll want to move it for the season or at least place heavy duty cardboard underneath it. This will keep it from compressing or puncturing the pavement during the vulnerable cold months.

Have it Sealcoated – Sealcoating is usually done one year after the pavement is installed and then every two to three years after that. Sealcoating protects the pavement from harsh weather and cold temperatures. It also adds water resistance and protects the base layers underneath.

Fall is here and that means winter is not far behind. Even mild winters can still have negative impacts on your pavement. Perform this fall maintenance to protect your pavement and you’ll keep it in good condition for longer.

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Here’s the announcement from Senator Fine’s website:

“SPRINGFIELD – To better protect the health of children and all Illinois residents, the use of toxic coal tar-based pavement sealant in construction projects at public schools and state agencies will have to be disclosed under a measure sponsored by State Senator Laura Fine (D-Glenview), which was signed into law Friday.

“Children and families across Illinois should be able to live their lives without exposure to cancer-causing chemicals on the playground or at work,” Senator Fine said. “This law will protect our communities today and our environment for years to come.”

Under Senator Fine’s Coal Tar Sealant Act, public schools, public school districts, daycares and state agencies will be required to disclose the use of coal tar-based sealant on playgrounds, parking lots and other paved areas. This measure will also require groups planning to use coal tar-based sealant for a pavement project to look into cleaner alternatives.

High levels of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) are found in coal tar sealants used in pavement projects, which could lead to environmental contamination as the sealants wear away over time. There are environmentally friendly alternatives to coal tar-based sealants with little to no PAH that are available at a similar cost.

Studies have shown PAH compounds may cause cancer, birth defects and other health complications. Lifelong exposure to coal tar-treated pavements and playgrounds can increase an individual’s cancer risk by 38 times.

“Clearing playgrounds, schools, park districts and public buildings of coal tar is an important step to eliminating a pollutant that is a threat to our local environment and a health hazard to Illinoisans,” said State Representative Robyn Gabel (D-Evanston), who sponsored the bill in the House. “Removing coal tar products will help ensure our communities are a safe place for our kids to grow up.”

Senate Bill 692 was signed into law Friday and will take effect Jan. 1, 2023.

# # #

Read more here.

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1. Watch for water puddles – Water can penetrate the surface of your asphalt pavement and erode the base, weakening the foundation. Standing water in the form of water puddles indicates that you have an ineffective drainage system. The best way to guard against water damage is to have an efficient drainage system that pulls water down into the sewer or storm drain and off of the pavement, eliminating water accumulation.

2. Check for cracking – Some amount of cracking is caused naturally by the environment over time. Because of this natural wear and tear, it’s important to have regular maintenance to tend to cracks while they are minor issues. When left unrepaired, cracks can evolve into dangerous potholes or larger, harder to repair cracks. This type of damage can render your asphalt pavement useless. Taking immediate action when you find cracks is key to preserving your asphalt pavement’s lifespan.

3. Invest in sealcoating – Sealcoating is generally performed about one year after new pavement is laid. Sealcoating extends your pavement’s lifespan. It helps cover minor cracks, preventing them from becoming serious problems. It not only protects your investment in your asphalt pavement but it also refreshes the color and look of your pavement, restoring its beautiful appearance and curb appeal.

Your asphalt pavement is an investment in your property and its value. Knowing what to look for and how to make your asphalt pavement last longer helps you maximize that investment. While wear and tear is normal and will happen, how you repair and maintain your pavement makes a huge difference in how long it lasts. Watching for water puddles, checking for cracks and investing in sealcoating will help your asphalt pavement go the distance for you. For more information about sealcoating and asphalt pavement maintenance and repair, call EcoShield today!

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An excerpt:

People who lived next to coal-tar-sealcoated pavement had a 38 times higher risk of developing cancer, according to the U.S. government. Here in Hampton Roads, high levels of the associated chemicals have been linked to widespread fish cancer in the Elizabeth River.

A Northern Virginia delegate has now brought a bill targeting toxic sealants. The legislation, advocated by the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, would allow localities to ban them.

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