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. 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.

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Read more here.

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From Governor Hochul’s website:

“Governor Kathy Hochul today signed a package of legislation to protect public health and the environment and address harmful pollutants in New York State. Legislation S.2936a/A.5029a prohibits the burning of grade 6 fuel oil in buildings. Legislation S.4095b/A.518a bans the use and sale of pavement products that contain coal tar.

“The harmful effects of climate change and pollution have only heightened the importance of protecting the well-being of New Yorkers and the preservation of our state’s environment,” Governor Hochul said. “This legislation takes important steps to ensure that New Yorkers have access to clean water and a breathable environment free of harmful pollutants.”

Legislation S.2936a/A.5029a will reduce the level of toxic air pollutants that are a result of burning grade 6 fuel oil in buildings. Grade 6 fuel oil contains high concentrations of contaminants, such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), heavy metals, nitric oxide, sulfur dioxide, nickel, and black carbon that are released into the air when it is used to heat buildings. PAHs are proven human carcinogens, and sulfur dioxide and nitric oxide are known respiratory irritants. Studies show combustion of grade 6 fuel oil forms soot that when conveyed into the atmosphere create a source of air pollution and contribute to respiratory illness. Cost-effective alternatives for building heating are available in the market today to both reduce emissions and lower energy costs for building owners. The prohibition on the use of grade 6 fuel oil in buildings for heating goes into effect on July 1, 2023.

Assemblymember Amy Paulin said, “The climate crisis is rapidly accelerating, and so must our response. This legislation takes aim at one of the prime causes of climate change and extreme weather:  air pollution. Fuel oil grade number 6 releases extremely harmful pollutants into our air. We must take every step possible to make sure that the air we breathe is clean and contributes to life.  This law is a positive step in that direction. I thank Governor Hochul for signing this important legislation into law and for her commitment to protecting our health and the health of our environment.”

Legislation S.4095b/A.518a prohibits the use and sale of coal tar-based pavement sealants that contain benzo(a)pyrene and other similar carcinogenic PAHs which are harmful to wildlife and have been classified by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to increase cancer risks, particularly in children. Recent studies conducted by the U.S. Geological Survey have shown that while levels of most common environmental pollutants in waterways are consistently declining, levels of pollutants found in coal tar sealants are increasing. These carcinogens leach into soils and waterways through runoff, posing a toxic threat to these waterways and aquatic life. Chemicals associated with coal tar-based sealants that are known carcinogens, such as PAHs, have also been identified in house dust at alarming levels. Safer and more environmentally friendly pavement products, like asphalt-based pavement sealants, that contain PAHs in substantially lower concentrations (typically 50 ppm total PAH) are on the market and readily available. The prohibition on the sale of these products will begin Nov. 8, 2022. The ban on the use of pavement products containing coal tar starts Nov. 8, 2023.

Senator James Sanders Jr. said, “This new law will protect residents of Southeast Queens and all New Yorkers, especially children, and wildlife from the toxic effects of coal tar.”

Assemblymember Linda Rosenthal said, “After 10 long years of fighting, I am thrilled that my bill to ban coal tar-based sealants is finally law. Coal tar is bad for our health and our environment. It poses a grave danger to fish and aquatic wildlife, as well as children and pets, who are more likely to be exposed to chemicals in coal tar that settle near the ground. It’s beyond time that New York follow the lead of other municipalities that have already abandoned coal tar in favor of safer alternatives, such as asphalt-based sealants. Thank you to the environmental organizations that fought alongside me for years to see this bill finally become law.”

Senior Manager of Government Affairs for Riverkeeper Jeremy Cherson said, “Thank you Governor Hochul for signing legislation championed by Assemblymember Rosenthal and Senator Sanders to ban the toxic and carcinogenic coal tar based pavement sealants. This harmful fossil-fuel based product is applied to driveways, parking lots, and even playgrounds across the state. These sealants enter our waterways, poisoning wildlife and tracking into people’s homes, putting children at an elevated risk of toxic exposure. I thank our elected leaders for prioritizing clean water and public health by finally banning this toxic product and transitioning New York to less toxic, readily available alternatives.”

Coal Tar Free America’s Thomas Ennis said, “I am grateful for the persistence of the bill’s sponsors and advocates. This bill represents the real, annual reduction of millions of pounds of toxins which affect our children and the environment. It truly is a benefit to all!”

Director of Clean and Healthy New York Bobbi Wilding said, “Coal tar is known to cause cancer. Coal tar sealants also release high amounts of toxic PAHs, which harm workers, and contaminate our environment. Simply put, these toxic chemicals don’t belong on our driveways or roads. Thank you, Governor Hochul, for signing this bill into law, and thank you, bill sponsors Senator James Sanders, Jr. and Assemblywoman Linda Rosenthal for this important to step to eliminate harmful fossil-fuel based toxics from New York communities. This law will make New York cleaner and healthier.”

Conservation & Development Program Manager for the Sierra Club Atlantic Chapter Caitlin Ferrante said, “Dirty fossil fuels and their toxic byproducts disproportionately impact New York’s most disadvantaged communities, as inferior fuels and materials contribute to greater rates of asthma, cancers and neuropathies. By phasing out the burning of grade 6 heating oil and banning the use of coal tar in paving sealants, Governor Hochul and the Legislature are keeping two of the most persistent sources of pollution out of neighborhoods that have historically struggled with finding affordable, less toxic alternatives. This is a good day for clean air and water, and a good day for New York’s communities.”

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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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1. Check for signs of ground settlement – If your asphalt is settling and becoming uneven or showing cracks, this could mean the ground or foundation under your asphalt needs repairs or replacement. If left alone, asphalt settlement can cause severely uneven surfaces and major cracks. This can also lead to water intrusion and more serious problems later on. If you notice settlement, you’ll want to plan to address it come springtime, knowing that the winter temps and cold rains could make it worse.

2. Check for potholes and cracks – If you have potholes or cracks, it’s important to have those repaired as soon as possible. Winter chill and cold rains can cause cold water seep under your asphalt through potholes and cracks. Water under your pavement layer is not a good thing as it can cause your asphalt to deteriorate and break down. Repair potholes and seal cracks before the coldest and wettest part of winter hits to protect your pavement layer.

3. Check the thickness of your asphalt layer – The thickness of your asphalt layer can be an indicator of how well your asphalt will hold up to the cooler temperatures and chilly rains. If your asphalt layer is two to three inches thick, you should be okay as long as you repair cracks and potholes and aren’t experiencing ground settlement. Ideally, an asphalt layer of five inches or more is best to stand up to the wet and cold winter conditions. Even if your pavement layer is on the thicker side, it’s important to protect it. Consider sealcoating your pavement to help seal small cracks and help protect against water damage.

While our southeastern winters are milder than other regions, that doesn’t mean you can let your guard down when preparing your asphalt for winter. It’s important to check for ground settlement, potholes and cracks and the thickness of your asphalt layer. A layer of Pitch Black sealcoating can also help protect your asphalt from the elements while being safe for the environment.

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On January 31, 2022, Luisa Wiewgorra with Fox 47 News, reported that Grand Ledge, Michigan has implemented a ban on coal tar sealants.

Here is an excerpt:

Grand Ledge has banned the use of coal tar-based sealants, following mid-Michigan’s Meridian Township and East Lansing.

“We wanted to do something with the PAHs before it became a problem,” said Tom Jancek, a member or the Grand Ledge City Council, referring to a group of chemicals called polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. “And there are solutions now. You just use a different sealer.”

You can learn more about PAHs here.

Grand Ledge has banned coal tar as a pavement sealant, which means that contractors and retailers are not allowed to sell or use it anymore. The ordinance is meant to protect its residents’ health and the environment.

“Anytime you burn something, if you burn toast, you create PAH,” said Thomas Ennis, advocate and founder of Coal Tar Free America.

“If you’ve got coal tar on your parking lot, you will have high PAH is in your apartment,” he said. “You may say, well, that’s just the carpet. Well, that’s where our kids play…They’re constantly putting stuff in their mouth. And that’s what, that’s the way they experience their world. Well, they’re experiencing it in a pH rich environment. And it’s significant enough to increase their lifetime cancer risk 38 times by up for a child in those kinds of circumstances.”

Read more about the harmful effects of PAHs here.

Ennis said polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons can be breathed in, ingested, but also get in our bloodstream if we touch them, which puts construction workers at high risk as well. According to Ennis, the solution is easy and not any more expensive than coal tar.

“Coal tar sealcoat is about 70,000 parts per million. Then asphalt sealcoat is about 50 parts per million. So, we’re talking about the alternative being, you know, 1000 times less in PAHs,” Ennis said.

Michigan’s Van Buren Township was the first community in the U.S. to ban not only coal tar, but high PAH substances, everything that contains over 0.1 percent of PAH. In mid-Michigan, coal tar has been banned by Meridian Township, East Lansing and now Grand Ledge.

“We get our water from the groundwater. So, the more that we can protect it, the better long term we are,” Jancek said.

Lansing’s Communications Director Scott Bean said that the city of Lansing and its contractors are not using coal tar sealants. However, there is no ordinance in place for private contractors.

“This is an issue we will be discussing with the Sustainability Commission to possibly make a recommendation on any future action,” Bean said.

Ennis said he gets “a lot of calls from upset homeowners who’ve put this down, and you know, they’ve got small kids, and then they realize, ‘Oh, my gosh, I don’t want to poison them. I do all this the right things for my kids. I eat the right things, I do the right things. And then I didn’t know this.’ Well, I think that’s the role of good government is to protect, protect citizens from predatory uses of toxic substances,” Ennis said.

See the full article from Fox 47 News here: Grand Ledge bans coal tar in sealants (fox47news.com)

Watch the report:

And, keep checking back with www.ecoshieldasphalt.tempurl.host for the latest updates.

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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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