What exactly is asphalt sealcoating?
Alright, let us get straight to it. Think of asphalt sealcoating like sunscreen for your asphalt, but with a lot more muscle. It is a protective layer, usually a liquid asphalt emulsion, that we apply over your existing asphalt surface. This stuff is not just for looks, though it definitely makes your driveway look sharp as well as new again.
Its main job is to shield your asphalt from the harsh elements we deal with here in Los Angeles. These elements include those intense UV rays, water, oil, as well as other chemicals that try to break down your pavement. Without asphalt sealcoating, that asphalt binder, which is what holds all the rock as well as gravel together, dries out as well as gets brittle. That is when you start seeing fading, cracking, as well as all sorts of headaches. A good asphalt sealcoat keeps it flexible as well as strong. This extends its life significantly.
Why bother sealcoating in a dry place like LA? Do not we need it more for snow as well as ice?
That is a common question. Los Angeles Diamond Asphalt understands why you would think that. While asphalt sealcoating definitely helps in places with freeze-thaw cycles, our Southern California climate presents its own unique challenges for asphalt.
The biggest culprit here is the sun. Our relentless Los Angeles sun bombards asphalt with UV radiation. That UV radiation is a killer. It causes oxidation, which makes your asphalt brittle. This leads to cracks as well as a faded, gray look. Asphalt sealcoating acts like a sacrificial layer. It takes the brunt of that UV damage instead of your actual pavement. In addition, it prevents water from seeping into those tiny cracks that do form. This is important even with our sporadic rainfall. Water penetration is a huge cause of potholes as well as other damage. Keeping water out is key for Los Angeles asphalt.
How often should I really get my driveway sealcoated?
This is not a one-size-fits-all answer. Generally, for residential driveways, you are looking at every 2 to 4 years for asphalt sealcoating in Los Angeles. For new asphalt, you actually need to wait a bit. This is usually 6 to 12 months. This allows it to cure properly before that first asphalt sealcoat goes down. After that, it depends on a few things.
- Traffic: A busy driveway with lots of cars coming as well as going will wear down faster than one that sees less action.
- Sun Exposure: The more direct sun your asphalt gets, the more frequently you will need to seal it. That intense UV radiation we just talked about means some spots, especially those facing south or west, might need attention sooner.
- Condition: If you start seeing a faded color, visible cracks, or water not beading up on the surface, it is probably time to reseal. This is true even if it has not been the full 2-4 years.
Los Angeles Diamond Asphalt always recommends a visual inspection. This inspection gives you the most accurate timeline for your specific asphalt sealcoating situation in Los Angeles.
What is the process for asphalt sealcoating? Is it a big mess?
A good asphalt sealcoating job is not just about slapping some black stuff down. It is a systematic process that requires careful steps. Here is how Los Angeles Diamond Asphalt typically does asphalt sealcoating:
- Inspection as well as Prep: First, we check your pavement for any damage. Asphalt sealcoat is not a structural repair. We need to fill any cracks as well as repair potholes before applying the sealant. Sealing over damaged pavement is just a waste of money.
- Cleaning: This step is important. We thoroughly clean the asphalt. This removes all dirt, debris, oil spots, as well as loose aggregates. The sealant needs a clean, solid base to bond correctly.
- Application: We apply high-quality, commercial-grade asphalt sealer. This is usually done in two coats. This provides maximum protection as well as a uniform finish. Los Angeles Diamond Asphalt pays close attention to edges. This makes sure it looks professional.
- Curing: This is where you need patience. The asphalt sealcoat needs 24 to 48 hours to cure before you can drive on it. We will cordon off the area. This prevents any accidental driving on wet sealant.
It is not a big mess if done right. However, you will have to keep off the area for a day or two for your Los Angeles asphalt sealcoating project.
How much does asphalt sealcoating cost in Los Angeles?
Alright, let us talk numbers. The cost of asphalt sealcoating in Los Angeles can vary a fair bit. However, it is generally more affordable than major repairs or repaving. Across the country, the average is around $573. In Los Angeles, you are looking at a higher average. Some sources say the average cost to seal an asphalt driveway in Los Angeles is about $1,922. This is with a range from $1,010 to $3,139.
Generally, contractors charge by the square foot. This is often between $3.75 as well as $4.50 per square foot for materials as well as labor in Los Angeles. If your driveway is smaller, you might hit a contractor's minimum fee. What really influences the price for Los Angeles asphalt sealcoating?
- Driveway Size: A bigger area means more material as well as more labor.
- Extent of Damage: If we have to do a lot of crack filling or pothole repair beforehand, that will add to the cost.
- Sealant Type: There are different kinds of sealants. Some are more durable or eco-friendly. These can affect the price.
The good news is, you usually do not need a permit just to reseal an existing asphalt driveway in Los Angeles.
Can I just do it myself to save money?
Look, you could try to asphalt sealcoat your asphalt yourself. There are products at the big box stores. However, here is what Los Angeles Diamond Asphalt has seen. It often ends up costing you more in time, frustration, as well as a less-than-professional result.
Asphalt sealcoating requires specialized equipment. It also requires precise application as well as proper surface preparation to really work. If you have never done it, it is a time-consuming process. You would have to invest in tools you might not use again. In addition, the commercial-grade sealers we use are a different beast than the DIY stuff.
A professional like Los Angeles Diamond Asphalt knows how to properly clean, repair, as well as apply the sealant evenly. This makes sure it bonds correctly as well as lasts. A poor job can leave you worse off than before. This means poor adhesion as well as reduced protection. It is usually worth it to hire a pro for this one.
What is the difference between asphalt sealcoating, resurfacing, as well as repaving?
These terms get thrown around a lot. It can be confusing. They are all about asphalt. However, they are for different levels of wear as well as tear.
- Asphalt Sealcoating: This is preventative maintenance for asphalt that is in pretty good shape. It might just be fading or showing minor hairline cracks. It is a thin protective layer that extends the life of your existing pavement. It does this by shielding it from the elements. Think of it like a fresh coat of paint as well as a protective clear coat for your car.
- Resurfacing (or Overlay): This is when your asphalt has moderate damage. This could be widespread cracking. However, the underlying base is still solid. We will clean, repair, as well as then apply a new layer of asphalt over the existing one. It is more involved than asphalt sealcoating. However, it is less drastic than a full repave.
- Repaving: This is the big one. If your asphalt has severe damage, like deep potholes, significant structural issues, or the base is failing, asphalt sealcoating or resurfacing will not cut it. Repaving means we completely remove the old asphalt. We rebuild the base if needed. Then we lay down brand new asphalt. It is the most expensive as well as time-consuming option. However, sometimes it is the only way to get a durable, long-lasting surface.