Why You May Need to Seal Your Driveway

Driveways are often an underrated home feature, an eye-catching, pseudo-welcome mat that ties together the exterior look. Investing in a proper driveway, green lawn, and attractive landscape ups the overall appeal, but a driveway falls victim to natural damage over the years. A popular choice is asphalt sealcoating, the protective layer for the pavement, but homeowners often ask: Is this upgrade important? As professionals in landscaping and hardscaping, we answer: yes! To fully understand the significance of applying sealcoating to your driveway, let's start by digging into the qualities of asphalt, of the most common materials used for creating a driveway. Asphalt is a petroleum by-product that works as a binder in concrete, which is vulnerable to elements such as sun, water, and air, making gas or oil spills/leaks a major issue on the driveway. Over time, these natural factors lead to the breaking down of asphalt, causing it to lose flexibility, resulting in cracks and damages. This is where sealcoating comes into play. Sealcoating is a protective layer applied to the asphalt to shield it from damage from the weather or accidental causes. Consider preventative maintenance, like painting a wooden deck with an extra coat to protect it from staining during intense weather. Now, let's delve deeper into why sealcoating may be the best choice for your driveway. Prolongs Lifespan Sealcoating extends the life of your asphalt driveway by creating a protective layer that prevents damaging elements from reaching the base material. Without sealcoating, your driveway will be susceptible to expensive repairs or a full replacement earlier than expected. But with regular sealcoating—generally recommended every 2-3 years—your driveway can last up to 30 years. Over time, leaks or cracks in the pavement are common, making the asphalt brittle if not treated accordingly. One of the primary threats to asphalt driveways is water. Rain, snow, and ice can seep into the small cracks in the pavement, freezing and expanding, which leads to larger cracks and potholes. Sealcoating provides a waterproof barrier, reducing the amount of water that enters the asphalt. While this is more of a winter concern, accidents happen, and staying on top of them is best. Resistance to Oil and Gas Spills Unfortunately, cars commonly leak motor oil or gas onto the driveway, and these substances can penetrate unsealed asphalt, drying it out, and break down the binding agents, leading to crumbling and potholes. A sealcoating provides a protective layer that resists these spills, allowing you to wash them away before they cause serious damage. Keeping Up With Appearances Besides its protective features, sealcoating also boosts the aesthetic appeal of your driveway. A freshly sealed driveway has a rich, dark color that looks new and improves your home's overall curb appeal. The smooth, even surface is also easier to clean, reducing the time spent on maintenance. A seal coat is also a great choice when revamping the exterior of your home to make it look brand new. Budget Friendly Sealcoating costs are significantly lower than those involved in major repairs or replacements. Sealcoating saves you money in the long run by preventing the deterioration of your driveway, making replacements less common. It's a cost-effective way to maintain your driveway and keep it in prime condition. Safety First By preventing cracks and potholes, sealcoating makes your driveway safer for vehicles and people walking on it. Smoother surfaces mean less chance of trips and falls, and vehicles can avoid damage from uneven surfaces or cracks in the foundation. Sealcoating may be the best option for your driveway if you want to put ease back into your driveway maintenance routine. It enhances the aesthetic appeal of your driveway and property and significantly extends the lifespan of your asphalt. It protects against weather conditions, oil and gas spills, and normal wear and tear, making it a cost-effective, preventive maintenance method. Why Sealcoating Is Best Left For the Professionals Despite its many benefits, it’s important to note that sealcoating isn’t a simple DIY project. A poorly sealed driveway won't provide the same level of protection and might even lead to inconsistencies on the surface which will then need to be replaced overall. We recommend hiring professionals. At Newman Landscaping, we offer quality asphalt sealcoating services, ensuring your driveway is well-protected and remains in excellent condition. Our experienced team is trained to apply sealcoating properly and efficiently, guaranteeing a smooth, attractive finish that extends the life of your driveway. Understanding the significance of regular sealcoating can be a game-changer in how homeowners approach driveway maintenance. It's an investment that pays for itself in longevity, aesthetic appeal, and reduced repair costs. It will keep your driveway strong, beautiful, and functional for years. If you have questions or need professional sealcoating services, do not hesitate to contact us at Newman Landscaping. We're here to help keep your driveway at its best for years to come.