Keeping your asphalt lot protected and in good repair is important for safety and longevity. When your parking lot has a crack left unattended, it could lead to greater issues and reduce the lifespan of your lot dramatically. Sealcoating acts as a barrier for your asphalt, helping protect it from the harsh weather and elements. Keeping your lot sealcoated could potentially double the lifespan of your asphalt. At Blackjack Paving, we are committed to helping you maximize your investment. Through sealcoating and crackfill, you can keep your lot in good condition without breaking your budget.
What is Sealcoating?
Sealcoating involves applying a protective layer over your asphalt to enhance its durability. There are two varieties of sealcoating: coal-tar emulsion and asphalt-based emulsion. Both of which can be effective methods for sealing. When applied, the sealcoating covers the pits and pores of the surface, preventing oil, gasoline, and moisture from seeping into the asphalt. Also, sealcoating reflects the harsh sun rays which can cause premature discoloration or failure in your asphalt lot. If your lot has small cracks and imperfections, the sealcoating process may fill them in and create a uniformly strong surface. Additionally, sealcoating will transform the appearance of your lot. The fresh look and level surface will make your existing lot look new and well-kept. Since your parking lot is often your visitors’ first encounter with your company, you should make sure to make a strong and professional first impression.
What is Crackfilling?
Premature failure in asphalt happens often when cracks are left unattended. Water can seep down into the foundation of your lot causing erosion and pavement failure. Crackfilling involves using a latex product designed to fill cracks and prevent moisture from penetrating your asphalt. Fixing cracks is an economical and effective solution which can prolong the lifespan of your lot, keep your lot safe, and preserve your budget.
How Sealcoating and Crack Filling Work
Sealcoating and crack filling are often performed together because they protect different parts of the pavement. Crack filling targets open gaps in the asphalt, while sealcoating protects the full surface from weather, traffic wear, sunlight, oil, gas, and water exposure. When both services are done correctly, they help extend pavement life, improve appearance, and reduce the risk of more expensive asphalt repairs later.
How Crack Filling Works
The crack filling process starts with a careful inspection of the pavement to identify the size, severity, and location of the cracks. From there, the cracks are cleaned of dirt, debris, vegetation, and loose material so the filler can bond properly. This preparation step is important because filler will not perform as well if it is applied over a dirty or unstable surface.
After the cracks are cleaned, a professional-grade crack filler is applied into the open gaps to help seal the pavement and prevent water from reaching the base layers. This is especially important for parking lots, roadways, driveways, and other asphalt surfaces that experience regular traffic or weather exposure. Once filled, the cracks are leveled and sealed to create a smoother finish and help protect the pavement from further deterioration.
How Sealcoating Works
Sealcoating begins with surface preparation. The asphalt is cleaned to remove dirt, debris, and oil stains so the sealcoat can adhere evenly. Any minor cracks or surface imperfections should be addressed before the sealcoat is applied, which is why crack filling is often completed first. Filling cracks before sealcoating helps create a smoother foundation and prevents moisture from seeping into the base underneath the pavement.
Once the surface is prepared, a high-quality sealcoat is applied evenly across the asphalt using professional tools and equipment. The sealcoat restores the deep black appearance of the pavement while adding a protective barrier against UV rays, water, oil, gas, chemicals, and everyday traffic wear. After application, the surface is inspected for consistent coverage and overall finish before the area is reopened for regular use.
Why Are Sealcoating & Crack Filling Necessary?
Fixing cracks and sealing your lot will save money and efforts by avoiding a premature asphalt replacement. Also, your lot will remain in good condition, which can help prevent dangerous and costly slip and falls or car damage from potholes. Being proactive with your lot maintenance is wise for the safety of your guests and employees as well as your finances. Sealcoating and crackfill are affordable additions to your asphalt maintenance plan. As asphalt professionals, our team at Blackjack Paving has seen firsthand the difference adding sealcoat and crackfill makes. Your lot will be guarded against oil spills, gas spills, and moisture. Sealcoating will help minimize the harsh impacts of weather and its freeze and thaw cycles. Additionally, a protective coating will minimize the traffic wear from daily use. By investing in these steps, your lot will remain impressive looking and functional for much longer.
If you are interested in sealcoating or crackfilling for your lot, contact us today or give us a call at (678)-364-9696 to schedule your sealcoat project. Our paving professionals at Blackjack Paving want to help your asphalt endure and impress for years to come!
