Have you ever looked into getting your asphalt driveway done, found asphalt paving and asphalt sealcoating services, and was confused about the difference between the two? Don’t worry, you’re not the only one. Many customers are unsure about the difference between the two.
Well, we can help with that. As asphalt experts serving Toronto and the GTA, we can help you learn how to identify the difference between asphalt paving and asphalt sealcoating. The first step is to talk about the definition of each service:
What is Asphalt Sealcoating?
Sealcoating is a specially-formulated liquid coating that is applied to asphalt pavement to seal it against damage, hence the name “sealcoating.” Asphalt sealcoating protects your asphalt from water damage, UV rays, heavy precipitation, various forms of damage from vehicles, and chemicals.
Not only can it protect your pavement from damage, but it also reduces friction, which creates a smoother driving or parking surface. As well as its protective qualities, sealcoating has an additional cosmetic benefit: it can enhance the deep, rich colour of the asphalt and may help restore the colour back to faded pavement.
Additionally, sealcoating can extend the lifespan of your asphalt pavement by about 10 to 20 years, and this service is considered an essential part of overall asphalt pavement maintenance. Sealcoating is the least expensive but most important maintenance procedure available for asphalt pavement. It is not permanent, but you can reapply it as needed, which is much more cost-effective than repairing or replacing damaged pavement.
It is important to remember that sealcoating is not a form of asphalt repair. Aside from covering minor scratches and holes, sealcoating only protects your pavement from damage, and any existing damage will remain under the surface of the coating.
What is Asphalt Paving?
Asphalt paving is exactly what it sounds like: the application of hot asphalt to a driveway or parking lot surface. This can be used as a method to repair an existing asphalt surface that is damaged or to create an entirely new driveway or parking lot.
There are two ways to use asphalt paving for repairs:
- You can use an asphalt overlay, which is a layer of fresh asphalt that is installed over existing pavement.
- The other option is to use asphalt resurfacing, which involves completely removing the damaged area, repairing the foundation if needed, and then installing fresh asphalt pavement. Asphalt overlays are generally used to repair minor damages such as cracks and potholes, while resurfacing is recommended for more serious damage.
What Is The Cost?
The cost of both asphalt paving and sealcoating depends on the size of the area being serviced.
Asphalt paving can cost more than the average sealcoating service would. However, it’s often a necessary service for old or damaged driveways. With this in mind, a properly paved asphalt driveway can last up to 15 to 20 years if following regular maintenance.
Asphalt sealcoating can make your driveway look brand new again and protect it from multiple different factors for only a fraction of the cost you would pay for asphalt paving. Keep in mind regular sealcoating is one of the best ways to properly maintain your driveway, as well as extend the life of your driveway.
How Long Do You Have To Wait To Drive Over The Surface?
When it comes to asphalt paving, the surface can take more than 30 days to fully cure. However, you should be able to drive on it within 3 days. When you are driving on a new surface, never turn the steering wheel when the car is not in motion, as doing so can cause scuff marks on your fresh new asphalt.
When it comes to asphalt sealcoating, you should wait to drive on the surface for 24 to 48 hours after the sealcoating has been applied. Keep in mind that drying time can vary depending on the humidity, temperature, and amount of sun exposure.
Conclusion
If one of these procedures sounds like something you need done on your driveway or parking lot, Action Home Services is here to help you. Don’t hesitate to contact us today if you are interested in getting an asphalt service done for your property. We look forward to helping you with your driveway or parking lot!
