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Sealcoating is the process of applying a protective coating to asphalt pavement to extend its lifespan and improve its appearance.
However, there are many questions that people have about the process, and we’re here to answer them.
Here, we’ll address the most common questions about sealcoating and provide you with detailed information about why it is crucial to choose a high-quality asphalt sealcoat applied by a professional in your local area.
1. Why apply two thin coats of sealcoat instead of one thick coat?
It’s crucial to apply two thin coats of sealcoat because this process ensures that all areas of the pavement are evenly covered. A single thick coat can cause puddles that will cause irregular drying, leading to cracking and spalling. Additionally, two thin coats give you a more uniform appearance that is visually appealing.
2. Why did my sealcoat dry gray instead of black?
The color of the sealcoat is an indication of the quality of the coating. Poor-quality coatings and products may cause the sealcoat to dry gray. In contrast, high-quality sealcoat, such as Pitch Black Asphalt Emulsion Sealcoat, contains an advanced pigment dispersion that results in a vibrant, deep black color, and a long-lasting finish.
3. Why does sealcoat wear out faster in high traffic areas?
Sealcoat is a protective barrier against UV rays and other weather elements that cause damage and fading to the asphalt. However, high traffic areas will wear down the sealcoat faster because of the constant friction and abrasion. A good way to prevent this is to reapply the sealcoat every two to three years to maintain its strength and effectiveness.
4. How soon can I apply sealcoat to new asphalt pavement?
New asphalt pavement needs time to cure before applying sealcoat. Typically, it’s recommended to wait at least six months before applying a sealcoat. However, it’s best to consult with a professional sealcoat applicator to determine the time frame as it may depend on other factors such as the climate in your area.
5. What is slurry and how is it different from sealcoat?
Both slurry and sealcoat are protective coatings applied to asphalt pavement. However, slurry is a mix of fine aggregate, asphalt emulsion and water while sealcoat is a liquid mix. Slurry provides a textured finish for the pavement while sealcoat provides a smooth finish.
6. What is a mix design?
A mix design is a specific formula used to create the sealcoat mix that is applied to pavement. A good mix design includes a balance of high-quality asphalt emulsion with high-quality fillers that extend the life of the pavement.
7. Why does some sealcoat cause skin irritation and burning?
Some sealcoat contains high levels of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), which are dangerous to humans and animals. Therefore, it’s crucial to choose a sealcoat with low PAH levels to prevent skin irritation and burning while applying the sealcoat. Pitch Black Asphalt Emulsion Sealcoat is environmentally friendly and contains 0.00% PAHS, reducing exposure to harmful elements.
8. What are common sealcoating bonding problems?
Common problems include dirt and debris on the pavement surface, surface temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit and oil and gas spills. These issues can result in poor bonding and reduced effectiveness of the sealcoat. It is essential to have a clean, dry surface before application, a temperature range of between 50-85 degrees Fahrenheit and spills cleaned up before application of the sealcoat.
9. Why Choose Pitch Black Asphalt Emulsion Sealcoat?
Pitch Black Asphalt Emulsion Sealcoat is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a high-quality, environmentally friendly asphalt sealcoat. It is non-toxic and safe for people, pets and the environment. Pitch Black Sealcoat has added reagents that extend the life of the sealcoat and makes it resistant to the harmful effects of UV rays.
Sealcoating is an essential step in extending the lifespan of your asphalt pavement. By understanding the questions and answers above, you can ensure that the process is done effectively, efficiently and safely. To ensure the best results, it’s crucial to use a high-quality sealcoat like Pitch Black Asphalt Emulsion Sealcoat, which is environmentally friendly and provides long-lasting protection. EcoShield Asphalt Products is the Pitch Black manufacturer in the Carolinas and is committed to providing safe, non-toxic sealcoat across the area that protects families and the environment.