Sealcoating in Athens, GA

Sealcoating is a thin protective layer applied over asphalt. In the Athens area, where summer sun is strong and rain is frequent, sealcoating slows the oxidation that turns black asphalt gray and brittle, and it helps keep water and spilled fuel from soaking into the surface. It also makes a driveway or lot look new again. What it does not do is fill potholes, level ruts or fix a failing base. Those need repairs first.

Timing

New asphalt needs time to cure before it is sealed. HomeGuide advises waiting three to six months after paving. After that, resealing every few years is typical; cost guides give ranges from two to ten years depending on the sealer and the climate. Sealer needs dry weather and temperatures roughly between 50 and 95 degrees. Around Athens that makes spring through fall the season, and we avoid days with rain in the forecast because a fresh coat can wash off.

How we sealcoat

• Clean: we blow and sweep the surface and treat oil spots so the sealer bonds.
• Seal cracks: cracks are filled with hot rubberized sealant first, because sealer alone does not bridge them.
• Patch: failed areas are repaired before sealing.
• Edge and apply: edges are cut in by hand and the sealer is applied in even coats.
• Cure: the area is closed off. HomeGuide puts typical cure times at 12 to 72 hours before driving, and a few hours before walking.

Sealer types

Asphalt emulsion sealers and coal tar sealers are the two most common types. HomeGuide notes that many areas have banned coal tar emulsion because of health and environmental concerns, and that asphalt polymer emulsion is considered more environmentally friendly but stains more easily from gas and oil. We tell you which product we plan to use on your job.

Is it worth it?

For a driveway in decent condition, yes. HomeGuide lists the national average at about $600, with a 400-square-foot driveway at roughly $400 to $800. Compared with resurfacing or replacing, that is inexpensive protection. For a driveway that is already failing structurally, sealcoat is mostly cosmetic, and we will say so.

Driveways under trees

Many Athens-area driveways run under oaks, pines and pecans. Shade keeps the surface damp longer after rain and drops sap, leaves and needles that stain and hold moisture. We clean those surfaces thoroughly before sealing and plan the work for a dry stretch so the sealer can cure in the shade.

Commercial lots

Lots are usually sealed in sections so part stays open. Striping is repainted afterward, since sealer covers the old lines.