If you’re like most property owners, chances are that you want to make your driveway last as long as possible. When choosing asphalt for your paved surfaces, you must understand the differences and similarities between asphalt paving and sealcoating.
The paving experts at Prime Paving have been serving the Charlotte Metro, Piedmont Triad, and Foothills area since 1956. We offer both residential and commercial paving and sealcoating services, along with other options.
It’s important to note that paving is just part of the process. If you want to improve the life expectancy of your paved surfaces, you need sealcoating as well. In this article, we’ll explain the differences between the two.
Asphalt Paving Explained
Asphalt paving is the process of covering a surface with asphalt, a durable material made of a combination of aggregates, binders, and fillers. The life expectancy of asphalt pavement varies based on the materials used to create it.
Most of the time, if laid by a professional, asphalt pavement will last for many years, but without sealcoating, it may fail. This means you’ll need to spend a lot of additional money on repairs or repaving, depending on how bad the damage is.
If you are considering having your driveway or parking lot paved with asphalt, consider working with the professionals at Prime Paving in Mooresville, NC.
Asphalt Sealcoating Explained
Asphalt sealcoating is done after the pavement has been laid. This is a protective coating added to prevent damage from chemicals, weather, and other elements. In addition, it refreshes the appearance of your asphalt. Each time it is applied, your asphalt looks brand new.
Sealcoating requires a professional touch, but the process is quick and easy. You will need to allow 24 to 48 hours for it to dry before using the area. By regularly having sealcoating applied to your asphalt surface, you can easily double- or even triple- the life expectancy of your pavement. Additionally, sealcoating makes it easier to maintain your asphalt surfaces.
How are Paving and Sealcoating Similar?
There are several areas where paving and sealcoating are similar, including:
Appearance
When asphalt is fresh, it has a very rich, black color. However, this color fades with time and exposure to the elements. When sealcoating is applied, that color is refreshed and comes back for a while.
Protection
Both paving and sealcoating offer protection. Paving protects the ground and creates a durable surface for traffic. Sealcoating protects the pavement from sustaining damage due to exposure to the elements.
Both paving and sealcoating provide the same purpose for the property owner: cost savings and convenience.
How are Paving and Sealcoating Different?
The primary differences between paving and sealcoating are as follows:
Frequency
If your asphalt surface is properly maintained, paving should only need to be done every 10 to 20 years. In order to properly maintain your asphalt surface, sealcoating should be applied every 1 to 3 years, depending on traffic.
Cost
Sealcoating is much more affordable than paving. Sealcoating an average-sized asphalt driveway should only cost around $500, while paving will cost you $4,000+.
Purpose
The purpose of paving is to create a durable surface for vehicles to drive on. Sealcoating provides protection for the asphalt, preventing damage due to exposure to chemicals and other elements.
Conclusion
Paving and sealcoating are two steps to the same process. if you want to have a durable surface to drive and park vehicles on, you’ll need paving services from an asphalt contractor. This will help you protect the ground under the surface.
If you already have an asphalt surface and you need it refreshed, you’ll need sealcoating services. This will help you protect your asphalt surfaces and make them much easier to maintain.
If you have a property in the Charlotte Metro, Piedmont Triad, or Foothills in North Carolina, contact Prime Paving. We have the experience and expertise to install and sealcoat your asphalt driveway or parking lot. We work with both residential and commercial properties.
