Keep Your Parking Lot in Prime Condition With Premium Asphalt Sealcoating

Parking lots in Hamilton-Niagara have to endure a lot, from sunshine to freezing temperatures and heavy traffic. These factors can really do a number on your asphalt’s integrity, leaving it vulnerable to cracking and fading over time. These don’t only look bad but also can pose a safety risk if visitors trip on an errant pothole or particularly large crack.

Prevention is always better than repairs, which is why asphalt sealcoating is such a crucial part of parking lot maintenance. It reduces the likelihood of your parking lot falling into disrepair when exposed to even the harshest of Ontarian winters.

What Is Asphalt Sealcoating?

Asphalt sealcoating is the process of applying an extra layer or membrane to the top of your parking lot. It fills in any pores and small cracks, stopping water from seeping in and worsening damage and is one of the best choices you can make to keep your Hamilton-Niagara parking lot in good repair.

Protecting Your Hamilton-Niagara Pavement With Asphalt Sealcoating

While asphalt sealcoating is technically an optional service, it’s one every property manager should consider seriously. This preventative pavement treatment should be part of every maintenance routine for its numerous benefits.

Stops UV Rays

Summer sunshine can be particularly harsh to pavement. Unprotected asphalt dries out from the UV rays, which leaves it brittle and easily cracked. Sealcoating provides the extra protection your parking lot needs.

Keeps Moisture Out

Harsh winter conditions in Ontario can pose a big threat to parking lots. Asphalt is porous, and as water seeps into it, it can freeze and push apart the pavement. This often results in cracking that needs to be repaired. However, sealcoating creates a waterproof seal, blocking off those pores and small cracks and reducing the likelihood of more damage occurring.

Shields Asphalt From Chemicals

Snowy winters necessitate the use of salt in parking lots. While salt itself isn’t an issue, it can be when it saturates water and enters the pavement. Sealcoating stops this from occurring by blocking the pores and cracks it can seep into. Further, sealcoating offers additional protection against potential oil, fuel or other chemical spills.

Bolsters Asphalt’s Durability

Asphalt is designed to be somewhat flexible, allowing it to bend instead of break when heavy vehicles drive over it. However, as mentioned previously, asphalt exposed to constant sunlight or that dries out without proper preventative maintenance is prone to cracking. Rather than giving to the weight of a vehicle, it can crack instead and hasten the deterioration process. Sealcoating keeps your asphalt pliable and protected.

Maximizes Curb Appeal

Sealcoating isn’t only protective. It’s also aesthetic. A fresh layer of sealcoating creates a nice, even coloration for parking lots and smooths out any small cracks or imperfections. 

Reduces Maintenance Needs

Because sealcoating fends off several common contributors to asphalt damage, it often prevents maintenance and repairs over time. This results in an upfront investment, but savings in the long run. It’s the best preventative measure you can take for your asphalt. 

Extends Asphalt’s Lifespan

All of these protective benefits result in a parking lot that lasts longer before requiring replacement. 

The Sealcoating Process

Sealcoating is a simple process. First, any outstanding maintenance, such as filling cracks or potholes, must happen, and the whole lot must be cleaned. Then, technicians apply a layer of sealcoating to the entire surface.

To apply it, the temperatures must be above 13°C and dry for the next 48 hours to allow for proper curing. During those 48 hours, your pavement must not be driven on and will be blocked off from traffic. 

How Frequently Should Parking Lots Have Sealcoating Applied?

On average, parking lots should have sealcoating applied every three years or so. However, this number can vary based on several factors, including how exposed your parking lot is to the elements and whether traffic is heavy. These can necessitate more frequent applications.

Boost Your Parking Lot’s Longevity With Asphalt Sealcoating

A good coat of sealcoating can protect your asphalt from oxidation, weather damage and wear and tear. This worthy investment can transform your parking lot maintenance regimen and keep it looking fantastic for years to come.

If your Hamilton-Niagara parking lot needs a little helping hand to extend its longevity, contact us at EverLine Coatings today to learn how our asphalt sealcoating services can boost your business. Request a free quote today!