Whether you’re building the parking lot of a local business or the driveway for a government building, asphalt is often cited as the best material for paving by municipal parking lot paving companies. With the right maintenance, your business’s roads can look professional and be safe to drive on.
The positive first impression new clients and business partners get from driving on a well-maintained parking lot makes the cost worth it as well. Sealcoating is one way to ensure asphalt paving stays in top physical condition for the demanding municipal and corporate traffic businesses and governments see every day.
What is Asphalt?
Before we go into detail about sealcoating and how municipal parking lot paving companies use it, let’s first define asphalt paving. It’s a mixture of stones and minerals bonded together with a special component, generally cement.
The smooth surface that you see on asphalt parking lots is merely the top layer. The bottom layers are all made of combined sediment. The pavement’s height varies and greatly depends on the amount of traffic the road is expected to withstand on a daily basis. Also, asphalt is more watertight than other materials, making it an ideal choice for weatherproof paving.
Nonetheless, asphalt isn’t perfect. Exposure to weather effects and the constant stress of overhead traffic tends to weaken the binding, causing water to seep in and open cracks. Plus, oil and gas leaks deteriorate the chemical composition of asphalt. It’s for these reasons why municipal parking lot paving companies are sent in for repairs every now and again.
So Why Sealcoating?
Now, on to sealcoating. Think of this process as preventative maintenance. By applying a seal, you can cut down on maintenance costs and raise the lifetime of your asphalt.
Sealcoating involves the addition of a sealant layer over the top that fills in any cracks and crevices. This has a number of advantages:
- Keeps the appearance clean and smooth
- Protects from chemicals and moisture
- Retains heat so snow melts off faster
There are two main types of sealcoating: coal tar, which is cheaper but difficult to apply properly, and asphalt emulsion, which is easier to apply but offers less protection. The best option for your use case is up to manufacturer recommendations, your municipal parking lot paving company’s advice, and your specific case.
The Process of Sealcoating
The first coat of seal should be applied a year after the initial installation of the asphalt. Then, apply a new layer every 3 years, increasing the frequency if you believe extensive weather conditions or traffic is likely.
Sealcoating dries best between 4 and 7 degrees Celsius. Start by clearing the area of dirt and debris and pressure washing the cracks. Wash away any oil or liquids. Then spray the seal across the surface. Leave the surface untouched for 48 hours.
Municipal Parking Lot Paving Company | Melrose Paving | Toronto, Mississauga, GTA
Established in 1979, Melrose Paving has been dedicated to providing high-quality asphalt and concrete paving projects to the Toronto and Mississauga area. Contact us if your business is in need of some repairs, maintenance, or installation of any parking lots or roads.
- Sealcoating is a step towards preventative maintenance for prolonging the lifetime of your asphalt roads.
- Sealcoating fills in the gaps and prevents water from seeping into your asphalt.
- Melrose Paving is the ideal business and municipal parking lot paving company for your organization. Get in touch with us soon.
