When it comes to maintaining our driveways, one common concern that arises is whether it’s possible to pave over driveway sealer. Driveway sealers are commonly used to protect and enhance the appearance of asphalt or concrete driveways. However, over time, the need may arise to make changes to the driveway, such as expanding, resurfacing, or even completely repaving it. This leads many homeowners to wonder if they can lay new pavement over the existing sealer. While there isn't a straightforward answer to this question, it’s important to consider various factors, such as the type and condition of the sealer, as well as the intended outcome of the paving project. By understanding these factors and seeking professional advice when necessary, homeowners can make informed decisions regarding their driveways and ensure the longevity and functionality of their pavement.
Is There a Downside to Sealcoating a Driveway?
Sealcoating a driveway may seem like a great way to protect and enhance it’s appearance, but there are some downsides to consider. One potential downside is that applying too much seal coat can actually be detrimental to the pavement beneath. While it’s natural to think that more sealant will provide better protection, excessive layers can lead to premature cracking.
The reason for this is that sealcoating works by forming a protective barrier on the surface of the asphalt, shielding it from the elements and preventing water damage. However, if too much sealant is applied, it can become excessively thick and may not cure properly. This can lead to cracking and ultimately shorten the lifespan of your driveway.
Additionally, using too much sealcoat can result in a slippery surface, especially when wet. This can pose a safety hazard, particularly for vehicles and pedestrians. It’s important to find the right balance in application to ensure a safe and durable surface.
Another potential downside to sealcoating is the expense. While it can provide some benefits, such as improved appearance and protection against sun damage and oxidation, it does come at a cost. Applying sealcoat can be a labor-intensive process and may require professional assistance, which can drive up the overall expense.
Furthermore, sealcoating isn’t a one-time solution. It typically needs to be reapplied every few years to maintain it’s effectiveness. This adds to the overall cost and maintenance requirements of your driveway.
Applying too much sealant can lead to premature cracking, create a slippery surface, and increase expenses. Finding the right balance in application and determining the appropriate frequency of reapplication is crucial to ensure a long-lasting and functional driveway.
Now that we’ve addressed the potential issue of freezing, let’s delve into other factors that can affect the shelf life of driveway sealer.
Does Driveway Sealer Go Bad?
Driveway sealer is a product commonly used to protect and enhance the appearance of asphalt surfaces. However, like many other products, it’s a shelf life and can go bad if not properly stored. So, does driveway sealer go bad? The answer is, yes, it can.
To ensure the longevity of your driveway sealer, it should be stored in a heated room at temperatures above 50 degrees Fahrenheit. This will protect the product from freezing during colder months. A cool, dry place away from sunlight is ideal for storing driveway sealer. By doing so, you can help maintain the quality of the product and maximize it’s shelf life.
It’s important to note that although driveway sealer does go bad, it doesn’t have an expiration date like perishable items. However, it’s recommended to use the product within a year of purchase. This is because the sealers effectiveness can diminish over time, and using an expired product might not provide the desired results.
Using a deteriorated driveway sealer can lead to poor adhesion, cracking, and premature wear of the asphalt surface. Therefore, it’s crucial to check the condition of the sealer before application. If the product appears lumpy, separated, or has an unusual odor, it’s best to discard it and purchase a fresh batch.
In addition to potential discoloration indoors and the unsightly appearance of a worn-out driveway, sealing your blacktop may prove to be a futile endeavor due to the inevitable deterioration caused by UV rays. Rather than offering long-lasting protection, this thin coating inevitably succumbs to hardening and failure, rendering the entire sealing process ultimately pointless.
Why Sealing Your Blacktop Driveway Is Pointless?
Sealing your blacktop driveway may seem like a logical step to enhance it’s appearance and longevity, but in reality, it may be a futile and unnecessary measure. The thin coat of sealer that’s applied to the surface of your driveway is vulnerable to the relentless assault of UV rays. Over time, these rays penetrate the sealer, causing it to harden and eventually fail.
One of the unintended consequences of sealing your blacktop driveway is the potential for tracking. If you neglect to remove your shoes before entering your home, you run the risk of transferring bits of asphalt onto your flooring, be it vinyl or carpets. Not only can this discolor the flooring, but it can also create an unsightly mess that requires extensive cleaning.
Furthermore, and ironically, the initial purpose of sealing your driveway to improve it’s appearance can backfire. What was once an attempt to enhance the aesthetic appeal of your driveway can quickly become a source of disappointment as it’s appearance deteriorates.
The fragile nature of the sealer allows UV rays to penetrate, undermining it’s integrity and further exacerbating it’s deterioration.
The ultraviolet rays will weaken and degrade the protective coating, leading to it’s eventual failure. Additionally, tracking asphalt indoors can create costly and inconvenient cleaning issues. Ultimately, despite initial appearances, a sealed driveway may begin to look worn and poorly maintained as the sealer wears off.
When you sealcoat a parking lot or driveway, it’s important to note that discoloration, typically a brown hue, in areas such as cracks, alligatored spots, or low spots may occur. This is caused by the re-emulsification of the sealer, which essentially means that the sealer absorbs water again. The constant presence of water prevents the sealer from forming a protective film.
Why Is My Driveway Sealer Brown?
The brown discoloration in your driveway sealer is likely due to re-emulsification. When sealcoating, or applying a protective coating to asphalt-based pavements, the sealer creates a barrier against elements such as water, oils, and UV damage. However, if there are cracks, alligatored areas, or low spots in the pavement, the sealer can reabsorb water, causing it to lose it’s protective properties.
Sealer can’t form a proper film if there’s constant water present. As a result, the sealer may appear brown in these areas where water has been absorbed.
To prevent this discoloration and ensure an effective sealcoat, it’s crucial to address any areas of concern before applying the sealer. Repairing cracks, patching alligatored areas, and leveling low spots will help create a solid surface for the sealer to adhere to. Proper surface preparation is a critical step in the sealcoating process and can significantly impact the longevity and appearance of the sealer.
They’ll be able to assess the condition of your pavement, identify any underlying issues, and provide appropriate solutions. By addressing these issues and applying a high-quality sealer, you can restore the protective properties of your driveway or parking lot, ensuring it’s durability and aesthetics for years to come.
Conclusion
By effectively concealing existing cracks and imperfections, a fresh coat of pavement not only enhances the overall appearance of driveways but also reinforces their durability and longevity. Additionally, the process of paving over driveway sealer allows for a more cost-effective and efficient solution compared to extensive repairs or complete driveway replacements. As homeowners strive to maintain their property's value, aesthetics, and functionality, incorporating this approach can prove to be a practical and sustainable choice.