Signs of Poor Sealcoat Application and How to Fix Them
Sealcoating is essential for maintaining and extending the life of asphalt surfaces. It acts as a protective layer, shielding your driveway or parking lot from damage caused by UV rays, water, oil spills, and regular wear and tear. But when sealcoat application is done poorly, it can lead to issues that may compromise both the appearance and durability of the asphalt.
This blog will help you identify the telltale signs of poor sealcoat application and provide actionable solutions to address these problems. Whether you’re a property owner looking to fix an unsightly driveway or a contractor refining your application techniques, this guide has got you covered.
Why Quality Sealcoat Application Matters
Sealcoating not only improves the aesthetics of pavements by giving them a smooth, black finish but also plays a crucial role in preventing cracks, potholes, and other forms of degradation. However, incorrect techniques or defective materials used during the application process can wreak havoc on the surface, leading to costly repairs later.
Identifying poor application early on can save time, money, and effort. Below, we’ll explore the common indicators of a bad sealcoating job and how to address or avoid them altogether.
Common Signs of Poor Sealcoat Application
1. Uneven Coverage and Streaking
A key sign of poor sealcoating is uneven coverage or visible streaks. Proper sealcoat should appear smooth and uniform. Streaks or patchy areas suggest that the applicator didn't distribute the sealant evenly.
Why it happens:
- Incorrect application techniques.
- Insufficient mixing of the sealant material.
- Using outdated or low-quality sealant products.
How to fix it:
- Scrape off the affected areas and reapply sealcoat evenly using a squeegee or spray system.
- Ensure the sealant is properly mixed before application.
- Invest in high-quality sealcoating materials and tools to avoid poor results in the future.
2. Peeling or Flaking
If you notice pieces of sealcoat peeling or flaking off the surface shortly after application, it’s a clear indicator of a failed process. This can lead to exposure of the asphalt to damaging elements.
Why it happens:
- Improper surface preparation (e.g., not cleaning dirt or debris).
- Applying sealcoat on wet or oily surfaces.
- The sealcoat layer was applied too thickly.
How to fix it:
- Remove any loose sealcoat from the area.
- Power wash and clean the surface thoroughly to remove debris and oil.
- Reapply the sealcoat in multiple thin coats rather than a single heavy layer.
3. Sealcoat Fails to Adhere
Sealant that doesn't stick to the asphalt is another sign of a poor job. You might see areas where the sealcoat appears to lift or separate from the pavement.
Why it happens:
- Improper weather conditions during application (e.g., applying in rain or cold temperatures).
- The asphalt wasn’t primed correctly, or existing oil stains weren’t treated.
- Low-quality sealant material was used.
How to fix it:
- Always check the weather forecast and ensure dry, warm conditions for application. The ideal temperature is typically 50°F or higher.
- Treat and remove grease or oil spots from the surface beforehand using an oil spot primer.
- Use reputable sealcoat brands designed specifically for your climate and asphalt type.
4. Cracks Reappearing Quickly After Sealing
Sealcoating is not designed to fill large cracks but can help to seal smaller ones temporarily. If you notice cracks returning just days after application, there might be underlying issues.
Why it happens:
- Failure to repair cracks properly before applying sealcoat.
- Neglecting to fill larger cracks with crack filler.
How to fix it:
- Remove the sealcoat layer from the cracked areas.
- Use an asphalt crack filler to properly seal any cracks before applying sealcoat.
- Ensure the crack filler has cured completely before proceeding with the sealcoat application.
5. Sealcoat Wears Off Too Quickly
A well-applied sealcoat should last anywhere from 2 to 4 years under normal conditions. If the sealant begins to fade or wear down significantly in just a few months, it’s a red flag.
Why it happens:
- Using diluted or poor-quality sealant.
- Heavy traffic and improper curing time.
- Skipping a proper drying period between coats.
How to fix it:
- Remove any remaining weak sealant and apply two fresh coats of a high-quality product.
- Ensure each layer is given ample time to cure as per the manufacturer’s recommendations.
- Consider scheduling sealcoating jobs during less busy times to allow an extended curing period.
Preventative Steps for Proper Sealcoating
While fixing poor sealcoat application is possible, prevention is always better than repair. Here’s how to ensure a flawless application every time.
- Prepare the Surface Thoroughly
Clean the asphalt surface using a power washer and remove any oil stains, weeds, or debris. This ensures that the sealcoat adheres properly and evenly.
- Choose the Right Time and Weather
Work during dry conditions with temperatures above 50°F. Avoid sealcoating if rain or high humidity is expected.
- Use High-Quality Materials
Invest in high-quality sealant products from reputable manufacturers. Cutting corners on materials may save money upfront but will lead to costly reapplications in the long run.
- Apply in Thin, Even Layers
Avoid the temptation to apply sealant in one thick coat. Multiple thin coats ensure better adhesion and durability.
- Allow Proper Curing Time
Give each coat sufficient time to dry before applying the next. Avoid driving or allowing foot traffic on the surface during this period.
- Hire Experienced Professionals
If you’re not confident in applying sealcoat yourself, hire professionals with proven experience and expertise.
How to Maintain Your Asphalt After Sealcoating
After ensuring a proper sealcoat application, regular upkeep is key to extending its lifespan. Here are a few simple maintenance tips to keep your pavement in good shape:
- Sweep Regularly: Remove debris, dirt, and loose stones to prevent damage.
- Clean Oil Spills Immediately: Use degreasers to remove oil spots, which can deteriorate the sealcoat.
- Fill Cracks Quickly: Regularly inspect the pavement for cracks and fill them before they grow larger.
- Reseal When Needed: Schedule resealing every 2 to 4 years to maintain optimal protection.
Keep Your Asphalt in Top Condition
Proper sealcoating can do wonders for protecting and beautifying your asphalt surface. By identifying the signs of poor sealcoat application and taking steps to address them, you can ensure your driveway or parking lot stays in tip-top shape for years to come.
If you’re looking for a reliable contractor or high-quality sealcoating products to get the job done right. Don’t leave your pavement’s future to chance—get expert advice today!
We proudly serve the following cities: Acworth, Alpharetta, Atlanta, Austell, Brookhaven, Canton, Cartersville, Dallas, Decatur, Doraville, Douglasville, Duluth, Dunwoody, East Cobb, Hiram, Johns Creek, Kennesaw, Lilburn, Mableton, Marietta, Milton, Powder Springs, Roswell, Sandy Springs, Stone Mountain, Suwanee, Tucker, Villa Rica, and Woodstock Ga.
Woodstock Asphalt Paving & Sealcoating
Woodstock Ga 30188
404-724-8034
https://www.woodstockasphalt.com