The Difference between Asphalt Paving and Sealcoating

The Difference between Asphalt Paving and Sealcoating

Asphalt paving and sealcoating are commonly used in roadway and driveway construction and maintenance. 

While both are crucial for creating and preserving asphalt surfaces, they serve different purposes and involve distinct materials and methods. 

Here’s a comparison table to highlight the main differences between asphalt paving and sealcoating:

Aspect	Asphalt Paving	Sealcoating
Purpose	To create a new road, driveway, or parking lot surface or to repair significant damage.	To protect and extend the life of existing asphalt surfaces.
Material	Hot mix asphalt combines asphalt cement, sand, and rocks.	A protective coating made from refined coal tar or asphalt-based emulsion, with additives for increased durability.
Process	It involves removing the old surface (if necessary), grading and sloping it, and then laying down and compacting new asphalt.	Applied over existing asphalt as a liquid to seal small cracks and voids, providing a protective layer.
Thickness	Typically 2 to 4 inches for new layers can be more for a full-depth replacement.	A thin layer, usually only a few millimeters thick.
Durability	Designed to withstand heavy traffic and environmental conditions for years before needing replacement.	Generally, it lasts 2-3 years before reapplication is necessary.
Cost	It is more expensive due to the depth and materials required for the process.	It is less expensive as it is a maintenance procedure, not a construction process.
Time to Cure	It requires several days to cure before it can be used.	Dries within hours but may need 24-48 hours before traffic can resume.
Maintenance	Requires periodic maintenance, including eventual sealcoating.	Sealcoating is part of regular maintenance and should be done every few years.
Weather Conditions	It is best applied in warm weather, as cold temperatures prevent proper curing.	It can be applied in cooler temperatures but requires a dry weather window.
Appearance	Fresh asphalt paving provides a new, smooth, black surface.	Sealcoating refreshes the look of asphalt, giving it a dark, uniform color.
Environmental Impact	It can be recycled, reducing its environmental impact.	Sealcoats, especially coal tar-based, can have environmental and health considerations.

Understanding the differences between asphalt paving and sealcoating is essential for making informed decisions about the construction and maintenance of asphalt surfaces. 

In the following sections, we’ll talk about each process, exploring their benefits, limitations, and best practices to ensure the longevity and performance of your pavement.

Asphalt Paving: Building and Repairing Roads for the Long Haul

When it comes to laying a new pavement or repairing an old one, asphalt paving stands out as the go-to method. This process involves applying several layers of asphalt material to create a robust roadway capable of withstanding years of traffic and the harshness of the elements.

What is Asphalt Paving?

Asphalt paving is the application of hot mix asphalt—a blend of asphalt cement, fine aggregate sand, and crushed rock—over a prepared base or subgrade. It’s a construction process that creates a new roadway or parking area or repairs existing pavement that has deteriorated beyond simple fixes.

Why Choose Asphalt Paving?

• Durability: Asphalt paving provides a resilient, long-lasting surface that can endure heavy loads and frequent use.
• Flexibility: The asphalt material is flexible enough to withstand freeze-thaw cycles and minor shifts in the ground without cracking.
• Recyclability: Asphalt is a sustainable material that can be recycled, reducing the need for new raw materials and the overall carbon footprint.
• Speed of Construction: Although it requires curing time, asphalt paving can be completed quickly, minimizing disruptions to traffic flow.

When to Pave with Asphalt?

Asphalt paving is ideal for new construction projects, significant expansions of existing roads, or when an old surface has extensive damage that patching and repairs cannot address. 

It’s also the method of choice when structural integrity is a primary concern, such as in areas with heavy commercial traffic.

How is Asphalt Paving Done?

The process of asphalt paving includes several steps:

1. Removing Old Pavement: If repairing or replacing, the old surface is milled and removed.
2. Preparing the Base: The ground is graded and compacted to create a stable base for the asphalt.
3. Applying the Asphalt: Hot mix asphalt is laid in layers and compacted with heavy rollers.
4. Curing: The new pavement must cure for several days before handling vehicle traffic.

Best Practices for Asphalt Paving

To ensure the best results, it’s crucial to:

• Choose the right mix of asphalt for the climate and use.
• Ensure proper drainage to prevent water damage.
• Compact the asphalt thoroughly to avoid future settling and cracking.

Sealcoating: Preserving and Protecting Your Investment

Sealcoating is not just about making the pavement look new; it’s about adding a protective layer that seals the damaging effects of weather, chemicals, and wear. 

It’s a critical maintenance task that can save money in the long run by preventing the need for more significant repairs.

What is Sealcoating?

Sealcoating is the application of a protective coating to asphalt-based pavements to provide a layer of protection from the elements, including oils, gasoline, water, and ultraviolet rays.

Why Sealcoat?

• Protection: Sealcoating protects against the brittleness caused by the sun and the erosion caused by rain.
• Aesthetics: It provides a fresh, new look, enhancing the property’s appearance.
• Cost-Effective: Regular sealcoating can double the life of your pavement, reducing long-term repair costs.

When to Apply Sealcoating?

The best time to apply sealcoating is 12 months after the initial pavement has been laid and then every 2-3 years after that, depending on traffic and weather conditions.

How is Sealcoating Applied?

The process of sealcoating is relatively straightforward:

1. Cleaning: The surface must be clean and free of debris.
2. Repairing Cracks: Any cracks should be filled before sealcoating.
3. Mixing the Sealant: The sealcoat mixture must be prepared according to the manufacturer’s specifications.
4. Application: The sealcoat is applied evenly across the surface.
5. Drying: The coating must dry completely, typically within 24-48 hours.

Best Practices for Sealcoating

For optimal results, consider the following:

• Apply sealcoating in dry conditions when the temperature is above 50°F.
• Use high-quality sealant and proper equipment for even distribution.
• Plan for the area to be free from traffic to allow the coat to dry thoroughly.

By understanding the distinct roles and benefits of asphalt paving and sealcoating, property managers and homeowners can make informed decisions to maintain and enhance the value and functionality of their paved surfaces. 

Whether constructing a new lot or maintaining an existing one, recognizing the right process and timing can lead to significant cost savings and extended pavement life.