While many people are familiar with the general concept of sealing a driveway, fewer individuals know exactly when and why that service is needed. The more you learn about the sealing procedure, the more proactive you can be about maintenance — ensuring the driveway will last. Here’s a guide to when you should schedule sealing. 

What Are the Benefits of Sealing Your Driveway?

Since your driveway is constantly exposed to the elements, it will begin to degrade without the proper protection. When it rains, for instance, water permeates the concrete or asphalt, creating deterioration. During the winter, when water freezes into ice, it expands, which causes new cracks to form. A seal coat creates a buffer layer that repels incoming water — preventing those problems from happening. It also blocks sunlight’s ultraviolet rays from weakening the surface. You won’t have to worry as much if there’s an oil spill or another leak that runs down your driveway since the seal coat will rebuff that too. 

When Should You Schedule the Sealing?

The typical rule of thumb is that a driveway will require a seal coat every 1 to 5 years. As you assess when you should plan your service, the first factor to know is that you must never apply a seal coat to a new asphalt surface. It takes over six months for all the oils to leave the asphalt, which is necessary for the surface to harden. 

The major sign to schedule sealing services is if you start noticing small cracks throughout the driveway. When these spidery veins start appearing, it means that your surface has become vulnerable. Before the cracks deepen and turn into dangerous potholes, schedule seal coating. 

If you think it’s time to seal your driveway, don’t hesitate to reach out to Jeff Simek Construction Company in Ogema, WI. In business for over 25 years, the locally owned and operated excavating contractor counts driveway maintenance as one of their specialties. With just one quick visit, the professionals will add years to the life span of your surface. To set up an appointment with the grading crew, just call (715) 767-5295. Learn more about the company by visiting their website.