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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Benefits of Sealcoating

Why sealcoat? There are several benefits of this application and when done with an environmentally friendly product, it not only protects your asphalt pavement but protects the environment as well.

1. Regular sealcoating extends the lifespan of the pavement and reduces long term repair costs.

2. Sealcoating provides a protective layer to keep out water, UV rays from the sun and vehicle fluids such as oil and gasoline.

3. As it is exposed to the elements, asphalt pavement fades over time. Sealcoating makes pavement look and wear like new again.

4. Sealcoating increases the melting process of any ice, frost or snow to protect against damage from water penetration, frost damage or snow damage.

5. Sealcoating protects asphalt from oils and gasoline that could soften and damage the asphalt over time.

6. Seal coated pavement is easier to clean because the sealcoat provides a smoother surface than plain asphalt.

7. Sealcoating slows the oxidation process. Oxidation causes deterioration of asphalt, making it brittle and more prone to cracks, breaks and the formation of holes and other defects.

8. Sealcoating saves money. The expense of regular sealcoating is far less than the expense of repaving. Sealcoating extends the lifespan of asphalt, making the need to repave less frequent.

So, why sealcoat? It has tremendous benefits by protecting the asphalt from the elements, oxidation and wear and tear. When an environmentally friendly sealcoat is used such as Pitch Black, it also protects the environment. Pitch Black is non-toxic and safe for the environment and the people exposed to it. Traditional sealcoat can contain caustic and carcinogenic ingredients that are harmful to human health and the environment. Frequently repaving is also detrimental to the environment as the process generates particulate matter that is harmful to surrounding ecosystems as well. When you need a sealcoat provider to keep your asphalt in good condition, choose EcoShield, your local manufacturer of Pitch Black sealcoat.

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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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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. Clean the surface thoroughly

The first step in prepping a surface for sealcoating is cleaning it thoroughly. Use a power washer or a broom and a high-quality surface cleaner to remove all dirt, debris and other materials that might interfere with the bonding of the sealcoat. When a surface is clean, the sealcoat will adhere better and last longer, which is the ultimate goal.

2. Prime oil spots

Oil spots are a common problem, especially in commercial parking lots. They can be challenging to remove completely, but you don’t have to remove them all. Instead, prime them with an oil spot primer before applying the sealcoat. This will help the sealcoat adhere better, and the oil spots won’t bleed through and mar the finished result.

3. Repair surface defects

Cracks, gaps and potholes are not only unsightly, but they can also cause damage to vehicles and people. Repairing surface defects is vital for both safety and aesthetics. Use a hot rubberized crack filler, patching compound or other appropriate materials to fix any areas that need repair. Make sure you follow the manufacturer’s instructions and that the repairs are fully cured before applying the sealcoat.

4. Ensure there is no base failure due to alligator cracking

Alligator cracking is a sign of underlying pavement failure. Before sealcoating, you must address any significant base failures or other structural problems. These problems must be repaired appropriately before sealcoating and can improve both the performance of the sealcoat and the pavement longevity. This requires inspection and careful assessment by an experienced contractor.

5. Apply sealcoat when temperatures are optimal

Finally, make sure you apply the sealcoat when temperatures are optimal. Most sealcoat manufacturers recommend that the temperature of the pavement be at least 50℉ to 55℉ and above. Avoid applying sealcoat when the pavement is too hot or too cold. The optimal time to apply sealcoat depends on the season and weather conditions. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions before applying sealcoat.

6. Choose quality sealcoat Pitch Black

Pitch Black is a top quality asphalt emulsion sealcoat that is ideal for all types of asphalt applications. It strongly adheres to the asphalt pavement, is highly durable, gives the longest lasting black color and is eco-friendly with 0.00% PAHs so it is safe for your crew and your customers. Choose Pitch Black sealcoat for the optimal sealcoat experience for your customers.

By following these best practices, you’ll give your clients the best possible outcome and demonstrate that you’re a professional who takes pride in your work. Great performance from sealcoat jobs requires thorough preparation and attention to detail. Always consider seeking continued training and education in your field. A job well done will not only satisfy the customer but also your business.

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Top 5 Reasons to Switch to Pitch Black

1. Enhanced Durability

Pitch Black sealcoat is formulated with advanced polymers and additives that provide unmatched durability and protection for asphalt surfaces. Say goodbye to premature cracking, fading and wear – with Pitch Black, treated pavement will stay looking fresh and pristine for years to come.

2. Superior Performance

Pitch Black’s unique emulsion formula delivers superior performance in all weather conditions. Whether it’s scorching summer heat or freezing winter cold, Pitch Black stands up to the elements and provides long-lasting protection against UV rays, water damage and other environmental factors.

3. Eco-Friendly Solution

Pitch Black is an environmentally friendly sealcoat option that contains low VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) and is free from harmful chemicals and has 0.00% PAHs. By choosing Pitch Black, you’re not only protecting your pavement but also doing your part to minimize your environmental impact.

4. Cost-Effective Solution

With Pitch Black, you get more bang for your buck. Its superior durability means fewer recoats and touch-ups, saving you time and money in the long run. Plus, with our limited time offer of 10% off bulk orders, you can enjoy even greater savings on your sealcoating projects.

5. Trusted Supplier

When it comes to Pitch Black in the Carolinas or Virginia, Pitch Black Carolinas by EcoShield Asphalt Products has got you covered. As your trusted supplier, we provide top-quality Pitch Black sealcoat products and exceptional customer service to ensure your sealcoating projects are a success every single time.

Ready to take your sealcoating game to the next level? Make the switch to Pitch Black this sealcoating season and enjoy enhanced durability, superior performance, eco-friendly benefits, cost-effective solutions and unbeatable savings. With Pitch Black Carolinas by EcoShield Asphalt Products, you’re in good hands. Don’t miss out on our limited-time offer of 10% off bulk orders – contact us today to place your order and elevate your sealcoating projects to new heights!

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1. Lock in Lower Costs with Bulk Orders

Every project counts—and so does every dollar. Bulk ordering gives you better pricing per gallon, which means more margin on every job. Whether you’re sealing neighborhoods, parking lots or commercial driveways, ordering in volume puts money back in your pocket without compromising on quality. Why pay more per barrel later when you can save big now?

2. Skip the Wait—We’ve Got You Covered

While other suppliers struggle to keep up with demand, EcoShield Asphalt Products manufactures Pitch Black right here in the Carolinas. That means no backorders, no delays and no excuses. Bulk ordering Pitch Black now gives you immediate access to unlimited supply, so you can stay fully stocked and focused on crushing your spring schedule. You take care of the sealing—we’ll handle the rest.

3. Keep Jobs Moving Without Interruptions

When you’re stocked up, your crew stays productive. No unexpected supply runs, no mid-job material delays. You roll in, get it sealed and move on to the next one. That’s how you build momentum—and profit. Bulk ordering lets you stay focused on work, not logistics.

4. Get the Competitive Edge

Pitch Black is the go-to sealcoat for contractors who take pride in their results. It’s long-lasting, deep black and built to perform under pressure. Contractors who order in bulk are ready for every project that comes their way while others are still waiting on deliveries. More supply, better performance, more wins.

5. Control Your Season with Confidence

With bulk product in your yard or on-site, you can schedule bigger jobs, take on more clients and move faster than the competition. No guesswork. No stress. Just a season of productivity with the best sealcoat in the game.

Why Bulk Ordering Pitch Black Still Matters This Season

Spring might be here, but there’s a long road ahead. The busiest months are just beginning, and bulk ordering Pitch Black now puts you in the driver’s seat. Save money, lock in quality and keep your business running full-speed all season long.

It’s not too late to get ahead. Bulk order your Pitch Black now and make sure you’re ready to tackle every job that comes your way this spring and summer. Call EcoShield Asphalt Products today or contact us to reserve your supply and keep your business sealed up tight. Let’s make 2025 your strongest season yet.

FAQs

1. Is Pitch Black sealcoat better than traditional coal tar or asphalt-based sealers?

Yes—Pitch Black is a superior alternative to both coal tar and asphalt-based sealers. It delivers the same (or better) durability as coal tar without the toxic chemicals or harmful fumes. It also outperforms traditional asphalt-based sealers with longer-lasting adhesion, a deeper black finish and faster drying times. Plus, it’s contractor-approved, environmentally safer and meets or exceeds government specs in all 50 states. If you want quality without compromise, Pitch Black is the clear choice.

2. Why should I bulk order Pitch Black for the 2025 sealcoating season?

Bulk ordering saves you time, money and stress. When you place a bulk order now, you lock in lower pricing, eliminate mid-season supply runs and keep your crew moving without interruption. EcoShield manufactures Pitch Black right here in the Carolinas, so we offer unlimited supply and no wait times—even during the peak of the season. With big jobs ahead, ordering in bulk gives your business the edge it needs to dominate this spring and summer.

3. Can Pitch Black be applied with different types of equipment?

Absolutely. Pitch Black is designed for versatility. Whether you’re spraying, using a squeegee, or applying it as a slurry, it lays down smooth and performs consistently. Contractors love that it’s easy to work with and delivers professional results across all application methods. So no matter how you sealcoat, Pitch Black fits your workflow and exceeds your expectations.

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Protect Your Equipment Now

Your equipment works hard during peak season, so it needs the right care during the winter months. Start by draining and flushing your tanks, lines and pumps. Leftover sealer can harden and cause problems when you fire up your system in the spring. Clean your spray tips and hoses so nothing dries inside them. Check every belt, gasket and filter, then replace anything that looks worn. These small steps help prevent downtime and expensive fixes later. Store your machines in a dry place with proper ventilation. Cold weather can be tough on engines and frames, so keeping them inside protects your investment and helps everything last longer.

Store Materials the Right Way

Materials like Pitch Black Asphalt Emulsion should never freeze. Cold temperatures break down the formula and ruin product quality. Keep your remaining supply in a heated space or use proper insulation so it stays above freezing. Always seal containers tight to block out moisture and debris. If you use supporting products like Nuvo Crack Fill or striping paint, follow the same approach. Good storage habits protect your inventory and help you avoid waste when next season hits. Taking time now to set up the right storage spot gives you steady quality when you return to work in warmer weather.

Plan Ahead for Next Season

Off-season planning helps you build a smoother workflow for the year ahead. Look at the projects you finished over the past few months and identify what went well and what could improve. Use that insight to adjust your process. Many contractors also use this time to upgrade to better products. Pitch Black gives crews a deeper black finish, stronger adhesion and longer durability. It also meets every regulation in states like Maryland and Virginia, so you never need to worry about compliance. Adding it to your plan now sets you up for stronger results and happier clients next season.

Stay Ready With Off-Season Sealcoating Maintenance

Strong off-season habits keep your operation sharp and ready. Clean equipment, protected materials and smart planning give you a stronger start when the weather warms. This is also a great time to plan your spring bulk order of Pitch Black and get your supplies in order. When you take care of the essentials now, you step into spring with confidence. Pre-order Pitch Black today or contact EcoShield Asphalt Products to get everything you need for next season.

FAQs

1. What equipment should contractors clean during the off-season?

Contractors should clean tanks, hoses and spray tips so no leftover sealer dries inside the system. Clearing debris and checking for worn parts helps prevent breakdowns once work begins again.

2. How should sealcoat materials be stored during winter?

Materials need to stay above freezing. Keep them in a heated or insulated space and seal containers tight to keep out moisture. This protects product quality for the next season.

3. Why do contractors plan ahead during the off-season?

Planning ahead helps contractors review the past year, upgrade to stronger products like Pitch Black and organize equipment so they start spring with a smoother workflow and better results.

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A Smarter Choice for Contractors

Choosing the right sealcoat makes a big difference in both results and reputation. Pitch Black delivers consistent performance with a deep black finish that customers notice right away. Its superior adhesion and smooth texture make application faster and cleaner, saving time on every project. Because it’s a true asphalt emulsion, it holds up longer under tough weather and heavy traffic. Contractors who use Pitch Black see fewer callbacks, happier clients and more repeat business.

Built for Compliance and Confidence

State regulations continue to tighten, especially in Maryland and Virginia, where environmental standards are getting stricter every year. Pitch Black is already ahead of the curve. It’s 100% coal tar and PAH free, meeting every current and upcoming state requirement. That means no worries about compliance issues or chemical restrictions. Contractors who switch to Pitch Black now can head into next season confident their product meets the highest performance and safety standards.

How Pitch Black Outperforms Coal Tar

Traditional coal tar sealers might have been the standard years ago, but those days are long gone. Coal tar contains high levels of harmful PAHs and often breaks down faster under UV exposure. It can also give off harsh fumes during application, making it unpleasant for crews and customers. Pitch Black eliminates those issues. It applies smoothly, cures faster and leaves a stronger, longer-lasting surface. The difference shows up in durability, color depth and customer satisfaction. When side by side, Pitch Black simply performs better in every category that matters.

Get Ready for Next Season Now

The off-season is the perfect time to get ready for spring. Ordering Pitch Black now ensures you’re stocked and prepared when work picks up again. EcoShield Asphalt Products also offers equipment rentals, sales and materials like Nuvo Crack Fill and striping paint to help you handle every part of the job. Contractors who make the switch during the slower months hit the ground running when the first warm days return.

Make the Switch to Pitch Black

Don’t wait until next season to make the change. Contractors who switch to Pitch Black now are already ahead of the competition. Order Pitch Black today or contact EcoShield Asphalt Products to learn how you can improve results, stay compliant and keep your customers coming back.

FAQs

1. Why should contractors switch to Pitch Black now?

Contractors should switch now to get ahead of next season and secure a reliable, compliant sealcoat that performs better than coal tar products. Off-season preparation helps ensure you’re ready to start strong when temperatures rise.

2. How is Pitch Black different from coal tar sealcoat?

Pitch Black is 100% coal tar and PAH free, which makes it safer for crews, customers and the environment. It lasts longer, looks better and meets all current state regulations that traditional coal tar products fail to meet.

3. Where can I buy Pitch Black Asphalt Emulsion?

You can order directly from EcoShield Asphalt Products, the official manufacturer and distributor serving North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia and Maryland. They also provide equipment rentals, sales and supporting materials for contractors.

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