Comprehensive FAQs About Sealcoating/Patching/Crack Repair

Protecting Your Asphalt Investment

FAQs

1. What is asphalt patching?

Asphalt patching is the process of repairing damaged or deteriorated areas of asphalt pavement. It involves removing the broken or crumbled asphalt and replacing it with new material. This is ideal for fixing potholes, sunken areas, and localized damage to restore safety and extend the lifespan of the pavement.

2. How does crack repair with hot rubber work?

Crack repair with hot rubber involves filling pavement cracks with a specialized rubberized sealant. The hot rubber is poured directly into the crack, sealing it30 completely to prevent water, debris, and other elements from penetrating the asphalt. This process helps reduce further damage caused by freezing, thawing, or erosion. Hot rubber crack repair is highly effective in prolonging the lifespan of your asphalt by preventing small cracks from turning into larger, costlier problems.

3. What is sealcoating?

Sealcoating is the application of a protective layer over asphalt pavement. This layer helps to shield the surface from UV rays, water damage, oil spills, and other harmful elements. Sealcoating not only extends the life of your asphalt but also enhances its appearance by giving it a fresh, black finish.

4. Why is sealcoating important?

Sealcoating helps preserve and protect your asphalt investment. Without it, asphalt can dry out, crack, and become damaged by weather conditions or chemicals like oil and gas. Regular sealcoating prevents wear and tear, keeps water from seeping into the pavement, and slows down oxidation caused by sunlight.

5. How often should I sealcoat my asphalt?

It’s generally recommended to sealcoat asphalt every 2–3 years, depending on the amount of traffic and environmental conditions. Newly installed asphalt should cure for 6–12 months before its first sealcoat.

6. What is the difference between crack repair and sealcoating?

Crack repair targets specific cracks or damaged areas by filling them with a durable material like hot rubber. Sealcoating, on the other hand, is a preventative maintenance measure that covers the entire asphalt surface to protect it from future damage. Both services work together to extend the life of your pavement.

7. Can I sealcoat over cracks without repairing them?

No, it’s not recommended. Sealcoating is a surface treatment and will not fill or repair cracks. Any existing cracks should be repaired with hot rubber or another suitable material before sealcoating to ensure a smooth and durable finish.

8. How long does asphalt patching, crack repair, or sealcoating take to complete?

The timeline depends on the size of the project:

• Patching: Small repairs can be completed in a few hours, while larger projects may take a day or more.

• Crack Repair: Most crack repairs are completed within a few hours.

• Sealcoating: Typically, sealcoating takes 1–2 days, including drying time.

9. How long should I stay off the asphalt after these services?

• Patching and Crack Repair: You can usually drive on patched or repaired areas after 24 hours.

• Sealcoating: It’s recommended to wait at least 24–48 hours before allowing vehicle traffic, depending on weather conditions.

10. Will sealcoating make my asphalt slippery?

Sealcoating provides a smooth finish but also includes additives to maintain traction. If traction is a concern, anti-slip materials can be added to the sealcoat mixture for extra grip.

11. What can I do to maintain my asphalt after these services?

Regular maintenance is key to prolonging the life of your asphalt. Here are some tips:

• Keep the surface clean by removing debris and dirt regularly.

• Sealcoat every 2–3 years.

• Repair cracks or potholes as soon as they appear.

• Avoid parking heavy vehicles in the same spot for extended periods.