Seal coating your parking lot soon? Here are 3 things to look out for

If you are looking for a way to make your business stand out from the competition down the street from yours, you may want to consider applying a coat of seal on your asphalt pavement. Seal coat, or slurry seal as some may call it, has many benefits such as enhancing the look of your parking lot and protecting the pavement from water and other elements. Most importantly, your clients will know you care about their shopping experience. This will of course keep customers happy and return to your business.

After searching for an asphalt paving contractor and signing that deal, there are a few things you may want to look out for when your contractor does the work.

Cleaning of your parking lot – The most important process when applying seal coat is the prep work. Without proper cleaning the seal coat may not adhere properly to the asphalt. The contractor should use power blowers, motor sweepers (if applicable) and brooms for those tight areas. Areas where water may puddle will typically collect more dirt over time and should be cleaned thoroughly. Edges where asphalt and concrete meet may also collect dirt and debris and should be cleaned as well to get proper coverage.

Existing Cracks –  A question we get asked often is, does seal coat get rid of cracks? The answer is NO. Seal coating your parking lot will help hide those hairline sized cracks but it will not make them disappear. Many people have the perception that after seal coating their parking lot, cracks will be gone. If your parking lot is fairly new then you will not need any crack treatment, but if you have cracks on your pavement, you will need to properly fill those cracks with crack-filler before the seal coat is applied. This will ensure that water does not enter the pavement and cause further damage. Also keep in mind that any crack filler used before seal coating will bleed through and be slightly visible through the seal coat.

Seal coat material – The paving contractor may choose to apply the material using a squeegee-type application. When seal coat material is purchased by the contractor it is not diluted and it is up to the paving contractor to mix the material with the correct amount of water. The problem is that there are contractors who add too much water in order to save on material costs. The seal coat material will be a bit more watery and will not protect the asphalt as it should. As a result, your seal coat will not last as long and you will never know the difference once it dries. Supreme Asphalt Services recommends that you visually inspect the seal coat before the application process begins.

Seal coat is a liquid material that will help protect your asphalt pavement ONLY if applied correctly. Having good communication with your contractor is important to make sure everything is covered and you are completely happy with the service. The last thing we want is for you to be taken advantage of by a fly-by-night contractor.

Find out other tips for seal coat, asphalt paving, and striping by staying in touch with us at www.parkinglothelp.com