Sealcoating is the process of using a squeegee or a sprayer to lay a coat of sealant on top of an asphalt surface. This process rejuvenates the color of the asphalt, effectively bringing it back to the perfect pitch black of new pavement. Because it does cover all lines and imperfections in the surface, new lines must be painted on parking lots and roadways every time a sealant is applied. Here’s a brief overview of the processes. We hope you will understand why it takes proper maintenance for your favorite parking lots or roadways to retain that just-paved appearance and functionality.
Two Application Methods for Sealcoating
As we mentioned above there are two methods of applying sealant to asphalt: squeegee and spray. Each method has pros and cons, so we’ll break them down here:
Squeegee: One of the primary ingredients and main bonding agents of asphalt sealant is sand. The squeegee machine allows us to ensure the proper amount of sand in each pass of the machine. Sealant is evenly distributed and the machine forces it into the hairline cracks that develop in asphalt, effectively sealing them from moisture. The squeegee guarantees that there will be no overspray on buildings, sidewalks, curbs, or cars that get too close.
Spray: Again, one of the primary ingredients and main bonding agents in asphalt sealant is sand. A spray applicator cannot precisely measure out the amount of sand that goes into each pass. It does spray with some force, but not forcefully enough to effectively penetrate the hairline cracks that develop in asphalt. It does effectively coat the surface to protect against moisture. Wind does carry the spray so there is a chance that it will end up on nearby buildings, sidewalks, curbs, or cars.
Our pavement sealing team consists of four 1,500 gallon tanker trucks and four 300 gallon squeegee applicator machines. This equipment is transported to the jobsite as needed so that each job is completed quickly and effectively.
Line Painting Follows Sealcoating
Once the sealcoating is complete and dried, lines may be repainted on the surface. New sealcoat is a deep, rich black, like new pavement, so line painting must be precise and correct the first time to prevent mistakes that will show up at least until the next time sealant is applied. Some mistakes may be covered up, but they’re rarely covered to perfection.
Rapco Asphalt Maintenance is located in Franklin Park, IL and we serve the greater Chicago area. Call us at 847-299-1830 or email quotes@rapcoasphalt.com for a quote on your pavement project.
