Differences Between Asphalt Paving and Sealcoating
Asphalt is the most preferred material used for paving roads, parking lots, and driveways because of its durability, strength, and low maintenance. However, over time, asphalt can break down and deteriorate due to weather and traffic. In such cases, paving and maintenance services are crucial. In this blog post, we will look at two important services that customers need to understand before they commence any paving project, Asphalt Paving and Sealcoating. Let’s dive in!
Asphalt Paving
Asphalt paving is a process of laying down a base or sub-base layer of crushed rocks, gravel or sand, and then applying hot asphalt on top of it. It is a mixture of aggregates, binder, and filler that is heated to a high temperature to create a flexible, long-lasting surface for driveways, roads, and parking lots. Asphalt paving is an excellent choice when it comes to commercial and residential paving. It has a variety of benefits such as:
- Asphalt is cost-effective. It is not only cheaper than concrete paving but also requires less maintenance making it a significant investment for commercial property owners.
- It can handle extreme weather conditions such as heat, cold and heavy rainfall without affecting the quality of the surface.
- Asphalt paving is aesthetically pleasing, with different colors and textures that blend seamlessly with the environment.
Sealcoating
Sealcoating, on the other hand, is a process of applying a protective layer of a coal-tar based emulsion or asphalt-based emulsion over an asphalt surface. This liquid sealant is sprayed or brushed onto the surface of the pavement to create a protective barrier against harsh weather, UV rays, oil spills, and other elements that can increase the rate of deterioration of the pavement. Sealcoating has several benefits such as:
- Enhancing the longevity of the pavement.
- Preventing oxidation and fading of the pavement due to harsh weather conditions.
- Making pavement surfaces easier to clean and maintain, with a more polished look.
Despite its many advantages, sealcoating cannot fully protect a damaged pavement. It is best applied to well-maintained pavements to protect them from further damage.
Differences between Asphalt Paving and Sealcoating:
The main difference between asphalt paving and sealcoating is that asphalt paving is a process of constructing a new surface while sealcoating is a process of preserving and restoring an existing pavement. Additionally, sealcoating is less expensive than asphalt paving. Sealcoating costs approximately one-tenth of the cost of an asphalt paving project but is not a permanent solution to damaged pavement. With sealcoating, pavement will need replacement in about 2-3 years.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Asphalt Paving and Sealcoating are two important services that offer significant benefits when it comes to pavement construction and maintenance. While asphalt paving is used to create new surfaces, sealcoating is used to protect existing pavements. Whether you are looking to pave your commercial or residential property, it is essential to understand the differences between these practices to make an informed decision. At M. Carroll Blacktop Service, we provide quality asphalt paving and sealcoating services. So, if you're looking for contractors in sealcoating or asphalt paving in Sacramento, CA, contact us today for a free quote.