Sealcoating: Because Roads Need Sunscreen Too

1. Protection from UV Rays

Asphalt, like human skin, is vulnerable to the sun’s UV rays. Over time, constant exposure to the sun can break down the surface of your asphalt, causing it to become brittle, cracked, and faded. When you apply sunscreen to your skin, it forms a protective barrier that absorbs or reflects the UV rays, preventing damage. Similarly, when you apply sealcoating to asphalt, it creates a layer that helps deflect UV radiation, keeping the surface intact and preventing it from deteriorating.

2. Shielding from Moisture and Elements

Another way sunscreen works is by preventing moisture loss from your skin, keeping it hydrated. Asphalt can also be damaged by moisture. Rain, snow, and even dew can seep into the pores of the asphalt. When water gets into cracks or holes, it expands when it freezes (especially in cold weather), causing the cracks to widen. Sealcoating acts as a barrier that repels water, ensuring that it doesn’t seep in and cause those cracks to form or grow larger. Just like you wouldn’t leave your skin exposed to the elements, your asphalt needs protection to stay intact.

3. Prevention of Wear and Tear

Just like sunscreen can prevent your skin from aging prematurely by blocking harmful rays, sealcoating prevents the surface of your asphalt from aging too quickly. When asphalt is left untreated, it gets “weathered” over time—meaning it starts showing signs of wear and tear much earlier than it should. Sealcoating helps to extend the lifespan of the surface by providing a protective shield that reduces the effects of weather, traffic, and daily use. It slows down the process of oxidation and general degradation.

4. Maintaining Aesthetic Appeal

Sunscreen doesn’t just protect your skin—it also keeps it looking youthful and vibrant. Likewise, sealcoating helps maintain the rich, black color of your asphalt. Asphalt that is left exposed to the sun can fade and become grey or discolored. A fresh layer of sealcoating helps restore the dark, clean look of the asphalt, keeping it aesthetically appealing and welcoming. It’s like applying that sunscreen and looking great while doing it!

5. Cost-Effective Long-Term Care

Now, let’s talk about cost. Applying sunscreen every time you go out may seem like a hassle, but it’s worth it to avoid painful sunburns and long-term damage. Similarly, sealcoating your asphalt might seem like an extra expense, but it’s a small investment compared to the potential cost of replacing cracked or broken asphalt. Sealcoating can extend the life of your asphalt by several years, saving you the headache and expense of frequent repairs or full replacements.

6. When to Apply (and Reapply)

Just like you need to reapply sunscreen when you’re spending a lot of time in the sun, your asphalt will benefit from periodic reapplication of sealcoating. Typically, every 2-3 years is a good rule of thumb, depending on the level of traffic and exposure to the elements. If you notice cracks or fading before that time, it could be a sign that your “sunscreen” is wearing off and it’s time to renew the sealcoating.

Practical Advice:

• How Often Should You Apply Sunscreen… Err, Sealcoat? Just like sunscreen needs reapplication every couple of hours, asphalt needs to be sealcoated every few years. A typical range is 2-3 years, depending on weather and usage.
• Don’t Skip It, Protect It! Think of sealcoating as your asphalt’s best friend—don’t leave it unprotected like that guy who insists they don’t need sunscreen. In the long run, you’ll thank yourself.