Cracks in the Driveway? Here's Why You Need to Get Asphalt Sealcoating ASAP
Cracks in the Driveway? Here's Why You Need to Get Asphalt Sealcoating
If you see cracks starting to form in your driveway, you need to get asphalt sealcoating - and fast. Find out how it can help you here.
Keyword(s): Asphalt Sealcoating
This should come as a shock to no one, but driveways don't heal themselves. Those cracks in your driveway are only going to get worse.
Unless you do something to weather-shield your driveway and preserve its integrity, that is. The "something" we're talking about is called asphalt sealcoating.
Asphalt sealcoat is like a driveway healing elixir that cures:
- Small Cracks
- Weathering
- Deterioration
- Stains
- Ugliness
Discover more benefits of asphalt sealcoating below.
It Weatherproofs Your Driveway
Sealcoating protects your asphalt from the elements. Yes, asphalt weathers like anything else that remains exposed to the elements.
Exposed to sunlight and ultraviolet radiation, asphalt oxidizes. When this happens, it becomes more brittle and small cracks start forming.
The oxidation also attracts water molecules into the asphalt, which quickens its deterioration. Then the small cracks become larger cracks and eventually, potholes.
Sealcoating your asphalt protects it from sunlight and oxidation. If you'd care enough to seal a wooden deck, you should sealcoat your driveway, too.
It Repairs Small Cracks Before They Get Worse
If your driveway isn't sealcoated, it probably has some cracks already, even if they're too fine to see. Asphalt sealcoating fills in the small cracks that are already in your driveway before they become worse. It's a lot like repairing a chipped windshield before it becomes a giant crack.
And like with your windshield, big cracks are a different problem. Big cracks need to be filled before sealing.
It Prevents Moisture From Seeping Into The Base Material
Untreated cracks allow rainwater to seep into the base material underneath the asphalt. This causes soft spots, holes, and unevenness in the base material.
Your driveway is a big, solid slab of asphalt that has to support the weight of the vehicle you drive. If this slab is resting on an uneven base, it's not hard to crack.
If you drive over a soft spot in the base, the weight of your car can crack right through it. This is doubly true if the driveway already has cracks.
By sealcoating your driveway, you seal the cracks and prevent moisture from seeping into the base.
It Makes Your Driveway Look Like New
A nice, new coat of dark black sealcoat makes your old driveway look new again. The rough surface is made smooth and any minor cracks or scratches are covered up. It also covers any oils spots or other stains.
The improvement to your curb appeal alone is reason enough to sealcoat your driveway.
It Improves Your Resale Value
Add up all these benefits and they equal one thing: improved resale value.
If your house is on the market, buyers can see how nice, clean, and new your driveway looks from the photos online. It shows you've cared enough to take care of your house. And if the sealcoat is fresh, they'll know the driveway they purchase with your house protected for at least a few years.
Protect Your Driveway and Boost Your Curb Appeal With Asphalt Sealcoating
Sealcoat your driveway for a fresh, black finish and years of protection. Or avoid sealcoating and your driveway will only get worse.
The smart choice is obvious. Preserve and beautify your driveway with asphalt sealcoating.
For related reading, check out 5 Solid Signs It's Time to Get Asphalt Driveway Repair.