Blacktop Sealing

Keep your asphalt surfaces looking great and lasting longer with professional blacktop sealing services right here in Lexington, Kentucky. Blacktop sealing is a crucial maintenance step for driveways, parking lots, and other paved areas, protecting them from the elements and the wear and tear of daily use. Whether you’re a homeowner or a business owner, understanding the benefits of blacktop sealing can save you money and hassle in the long run.

Why Blacktop Sealing Matters

Think of blacktop sealing as sunscreen for your pavement. Just as the sun’s rays can damage your skin, they can also harm your asphalt. Over time, exposure to sunlight, water, oil, and other chemicals can cause asphalt to crack, crumble, and fade. Blacktop sealing creates a protective barrier that shields the asphalt from these harmful elements, extending its lifespan and keeping it looking its best.

The Benefits of Sealing Your Blacktop

1. Protects against weather damage: Rain, snow, and ice can seep into asphalt, causing it to expand and contract. This can lead to cracks and potholes. Sealing prevents water from penetrating the asphalt, reducing the risk of damage.
2. Resists oil and chemical spills: Oil, gasoline, and other chemicals can dissolve asphalt, causing it to soften and break down. Sealing creates a barrier that resists these spills, preventing them from damaging the pavement.
3. Prevents weed growth: Weeds can grow through cracks in asphalt, further damaging the pavement. Sealing helps to prevent weed growth by filling in cracks and creating a smooth surface.
4. Enhances appearance: Blacktop sealing gives asphalt a fresh, black look, improving the overall appearance of your property.
5. Extends lifespan: By protecting asphalt from damage, sealing can extend its lifespan by several years, saving you money on costly repairs or replacements.

When to Seal Your Blacktop

The best time to seal your blacktop is during the warmer months, when the weather is dry and temperatures are consistently above 50 degrees Fahrenheit. This allows the sealant to properly adhere to the asphalt and cure effectively. In Lexington, Kentucky, this typically means sealing your blacktop between April and October.

Factors Affecting Sealing Frequency

The frequency with which you need to seal your blacktop depends on several factors, including:

1. Traffic volume: Areas with heavy traffic will need to be sealed more often than areas with light traffic.
2. Weather conditions: Areas with harsh weather conditions will need to be sealed more often than areas with mild weather conditions.
3. Asphalt quality: High-quality asphalt will last longer than low-quality asphalt, but it will still need to be sealed to protect it from damage.

As a general rule, it’s a good idea to seal your blacktop every two to three years to keep it in good condition.

The Blacktop Sealing Process

The blacktop sealing process typically involves the following steps:

1. Cleaning: The asphalt surface is thoroughly cleaned to remove dirt, debris, and oil stains. This may involve sweeping, power washing, or using a degreaser.
2. Crack filling: Any cracks in the asphalt are filled with a crack filler to prevent water from seeping in and causing further damage.
3. Sealing: A sealant is applied to the asphalt surface using a brush, squeegee, or spray. The sealant is typically applied in two coats to ensure complete coverage.
4. Curing: The sealant is allowed to cure for 24 to 48 hours before traffic is allowed on the surface.

Preparing Your Blacktop for Sealing

Before the sealing process begins, there are a few things you can do to prepare your blacktop:

1. Clear the area: Remove all vehicles, equipment, and other items from the area to be sealed.
2. Trim vegetation: Trim any vegetation that is growing near the asphalt surface.
3. Clean the surface: Sweep the asphalt surface to remove any loose dirt or debris.

Choosing the Right Sealant

There are several different types of sealants available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Some of the most common types of sealants include:

1. Coal tar emulsion: This is the most common type of sealant. It is durable, resistant to oil and chemicals, and relatively inexpensive.
2. Asphalt emulsion: This type of sealant is similar to coal tar emulsion, but it is made from asphalt instead of coal tar. It is less durable than coal tar emulsion, but it is also less toxic.
3. Acrylic sealant: This type of sealant is made from acrylic polymers. It is more expensive than coal tar emulsion or asphalt emulsion, but it is also more durable and resistant to fading.

The best type of sealant for your blacktop will depend on your budget, the type of traffic your pavement experiences, and the climate in your area. A professional blacktop sealing contractor can help you choose the right sealant for your needs.

Finding a Reputable Contractor in Lexington, Kentucky

When it comes to blacktop sealing, it’s important to choose a reputable contractor with experience and expertise. A good contractor will use high-quality materials, follow proper sealing procedures, and provide excellent customer service.

Questions to Ask a Potential Contractor

Before hiring a contractor, be sure to ask the following questions:

1. Are you licensed and insured? This is important to protect yourself from liability in case of accidents or damage.
2. How long have you been in business? A contractor with a long history is more likely to have the experience and expertise you need.
3. Can you provide references? Check references to see what other customers have to say about the contractor’s work.
4. What type of sealant do you use? Make sure the contractor uses a high-quality sealant that is appropriate for your needs.
5. What is your sealing process? Make sure the contractor follows proper sealing procedures.
6. What is your warranty? A good contractor will offer a warranty on their work.

Checking Online Reviews

In addition to asking questions, it’s also a good idea to check online reviews to see what other customers have to say about the contractor. Look for reviews on websites like Google, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau.

The Cost of Blacktop Sealing in Lexington, KY

The cost of blacktop sealing can vary depending on several factors, including the size of the area to be sealed, the type of sealant used, and the contractor you hire.

Factors Affecting Cost

Some of the factors that can affect the cost of blacktop sealing include:

1. Area size: Larger areas will cost more to seal than smaller areas.
2. Sealant type: Some sealants are more expensive than others.
3. Contractor rates: Different contractors charge different rates.
4. Surface condition: If your asphalt is in poor condition, it may need to be repaired before it can be sealed, which will add to the cost.

To get an accurate estimate, it’s best to contact several contractors and get quotes. Be sure to compare the quotes carefully, and don’t just choose the cheapest option. Consider the contractor’s experience, reputation, and the quality of materials they use.

DIY vs. Professional Sealing

While it’s possible to seal your blacktop yourself, it’s generally recommended to hire a professional contractor. Professional contractors have the experience, expertise, and equipment to do the job properly. They also know how to choose the right sealant for your needs and how to apply it correctly.

The Risks of DIY Sealing

Some of the risks of DIY sealing include:

1. Using the wrong sealant: Using the wrong sealant can damage your asphalt.
2. Applying the sealant incorrectly: Applying the sealant incorrectly can result in a poor seal that doesn’t protect your asphalt from damage.
3. Injuring yourself: Sealing can be a dangerous job, especially if you’re not familiar with the equipment and materials involved.

If you’re not comfortable with DIY projects, it’s best to leave blacktop sealing to the professionals.

Maintaining Your Sealed Blacktop

Once your blacktop has been sealed, there are a few things you can do to maintain it and keep it looking its best:

1. Sweep regularly: Sweep the asphalt surface regularly to remove dirt, debris, and leaves.
2. Clean up spills: Clean up oil, gasoline, and other chemical spills immediately.
3. Avoid heavy traffic: Avoid driving heavy vehicles on the asphalt surface.
4. Reseal every two to three years: Reseal your blacktop every two to three years to keep it protected from damage.

By following these tips, you can extend the lifespan of your sealed blacktop and keep it looking great for years to come.

Long-Term Benefits of Blacktop Sealing

Investing in blacktop sealing is an investment in the long-term health and appearance of your property. By protecting your asphalt from damage, sealing can save you money on costly repairs or replacements in the future. It can also improve the overall value of your property.

Environmental Considerations

When choosing a blacktop sealing contractor, it’s important to consider their environmental practices. Look for contractors who use eco-friendly sealants and follow proper disposal procedures for waste materials.

Blacktop Sealing and Property Value

A well-maintained blacktop surface can significantly enhance the curb appeal of your property, making it more attractive to potential buyers. Blacktop sealing is a relatively inexpensive way to improve the appearance of your property and increase its value.

Community Impact

Maintaining your blacktop not only benefits your property but also contributes to the overall appearance and safety of your community. By keeping your pavement in good condition, you can help to prevent accidents and create a more pleasant environment for everyone.

The Future of Blacktop Sealing

As technology advances, new and improved blacktop sealing products and techniques are constantly being developed. Look for contractors who stay up-to-date on the latest industry trends and offer innovative solutions to protect your pavement.

Sustainable Practices

The future of blacktop sealing is likely to involve more sustainable practices, such as the use of recycled materials and environmentally friendly sealants. By choosing a contractor who is committed to sustainability, you can help to protect the environment while also keeping your pavement in good condition.