FAQs
Q: Isn’t asphalt maintenance just for looks? Why do I actually need it?
A: While maintenance definitely boosts the way your asphalt looks, its primary role is structural protection. Asphalt is an investment that gets beaten down daily by UV rays, rain and oil leaks. Maintenance—specifically sealcoating and crack filling—acts as a shield against these elements. Without it, the asphalt becomes brittle, water erodes the foundation, and you face expensive repaving years sooner than necessary.
Q: What is the difference between crack filling and sealcoating?
A: Think of your pavement like a house. Crack filling is fixing a hole in the roof to stop a leak; it’s a structural repair to keep water out of the foundation. Sealcoating is like painting the siding; it protects the entire surface from sun and weather damage. You almost always need to fill cracks before you sealcoat.
Q: How often should I have my driveway or parking lot sealcoated?
A: For most commercial lots and residential driveways, every 2 to 3 years is standard. However, this depends on traffic volume and weather severity. If the asphalt is turning gray and the sand particles on the surface are wearing away, it’s time to re-apply that protective layer.
A: Honestly? No. Sealcoat is a thin, protective coating, not a filler. It might temporarily bridge thin cracks, but it will not fix wide cracks, potholes, or sunken areas. Those really should be repaired properly before the sealcoat is applied.
Q: Will sealcoating fill the cracks and depressions in my pavement?
Q: I just got brand new asphalt installed. Should I seal it right away?
A: Short answer is no. New asphalt needs time to "cure" and harden. Sealing it too soon traps those oils, making the asphalt permanently soft and easily scuffed. You should wait 6–12 months before the first sealcoating.
Q: Why is it so important to fill cracks right when they appear?
A: Water is asphalt’s worst enemy. Once a crack opens, water seeps down and erodes the sub-base (the foundation) underneath. In winter, that trapped water freezes and expands, busting the asphalt apart (the freeze-thaw cycle). Filling cracks with hot-pour rubberized sealant is the cheapest way to stop potholes from forming.
Q: Will the filled cracks be invisible once they're filled?
A: We like to be upfront about this: No. Crack filler is a thick, rubberized material that has a different texture than the rest of your lot. Even after sealcoating, you’ll still see the "scar" of the repair. It’s not a beauty fix—it’s a "save my driveway" fix. A visible repair is a lot better than a weed-filled crack.
Q: What are the requirements for ADA (handicap) parking spaces?
Q: Are faded lines really a safety issue, or just a suggestion?
A: The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) has strict, requirements regarding the number of accessible spots based on lot size, their precise dimensions, van-accessible loading zones, and required signage. Failing to comply can lead to significant fines and lawsuits.
A: It’s a major liability issue. Faded lines lead to disorganized parking, fender benders, and pedestrians walking in unsafe areas. Clearly marked fire lanes, stop bars, and crosswalks are essential for directing traffic flow and keeping people safe on your property.
Q: How long do I need to keep traffic off the lot after sealcoating or striping?
A: It depends on the sun, but typically, striping paint is usually dry in about an hour. Sealcoating is much pickier. We ask you to keep cars off the lot for 24 to 36 hours to make sure it’s fully cured. Walking on it is usually fine after a few hours, but keep the heavy SUVs off until the next day.