There's a lot that goes into sealing your driveway, and picking the right sealant is your first step. You have to make sure you know the difference between an oil-based sealer and a water based one.
Oil-based driveway sealing is more common since they are generally the better sealer for long term. They last longer and do better against water, all while keeping your driveway fresh. Water-based sealers are cheaper and better at filling in small cracks, but they don't last nearly as long as oil-based sealers, being more of a temporary patch job.
If your driveway is newer, an oil-based sealer is the better option to go for. If it’s older and already showing a lot of wear, a water-based option can be a quick fix, but you’ll need to reapply it more often.
What Is Oil-Based Sealant?
Oil-based materials, or bitumen and asphalt, are made up of two main ingredients: naphtha and bitumen. These guys contain a liquid viscosity that is simple to apply, often with the assistance of a spraying system. Perhaps the best feature of oil-based materials is their viscosity. They create a long-lasting, flexible surface that's perfect for asphalt driveways.
Advantages Of Choosing Oil-Based Sealants
- Develop a barrier that prevents cracking, water penetration, and heavy-traffic wear caused by heavy vehicles.
- Provide long-term protection, keeping your driveway spotless for the coming years.
- Shields water from entering the asphalt and creating cracks that can be a pain to deal with later on.
- Easy to apply using a spray
Downside Of Choosing Oil-Based Sealants
- May not be as effective with larger cracks.
When To Use Oil-Based Sealants
If your driveway is still quite new or only has some small cracks, oil-based sealers are your best option. They provide improved durability, lasting protection, and a more even finish.
The waterproofing benefits that come with oil-based materials can also help to protect your driveway from further damage caused by the elements, giving it a fresh-paved look that lasts for years.
What Is Water-Based Sealant?
Water-based materials such as latex and acrylic are another option for sealing your driveway. These materials are typically thicker and more like a liquid, made of coal emulsions, latex, acrylic paints, and other blends.
Advantages Of Choosing Water-Based Sealants
- They seal cracks a bit better, seeping into them and giving an even coat across the surface.
- Tend to be cheaper than oil-based sealants.
Downside Of Choosing Water-Based Sealants
- Harder to apply than oil-based sealants since you have to use a brush or squeegee.
- If applied unevenly you'll get an uneven finish, which will being a lot more annoying than you think.
- More of a short term solution, with cracks appearing again more often
When To Use Water-Based Sealants
If you’re dealing with a much older driveway that has seen better days, water-based materials might be the better choice. They work best on old driveways with already noticeable signs of wear. Even though these guys won't give you that same long-term protection, they're still great if you're just looking for something to make your driveway look better.
Wrapping It Up
You have to weigh the difference between oil-based versus water-based products, based on your specific needs, how your driveway stands, and if you want your asphalt driveway professionally repaired. Each of these materials carries its own limitations and benefits, but understanding each one will allow you to make your most informed decision for your driveway.
At Action Home Services, we are happy to guide you through the process of choosing and utilizing the right materials for your driveway, so that you can enjoy a beautiful, well-maintained surface for years to come.
