Asphalt sealcoating in Long Island is a necessary maintenance service that can significantly improve your pavement’s longevity. It provides much-needed protection from the elements, preventing major repair issues and keeping driveways, parking lots and more in good shape. But even with the best intentions, asphalt sealcoating can fail. Premature failure leaves your pavement with little protection, opening the floodgates for major headaches and costly repairs.
In this blog, we’ll cover some of the most common forms of sealcoating failure and how to prevent it.
What Does Asphalt Sealcoating in Long Island Look Like When It Fails?
Long Island asphalt sealcoating involves spreading a thin layer of asphalt emulsion over the surface of your pavement. It’s a relatively straightforward service that experienced asphalt sealcoating companies have no problem doing. After curing, sealcoating can transform your pavement and give it a like-new appearance.
Unfortunately, premature failure is possible. When that happens, the asphalt emulsion sealer can begin to discolor or peel up. You might notice small patches of sealer chipping off as vehicles drive over it, unveiling older gray asphalt underneath.
Uneven color and peeling are telltale signs of failure, and it’s important to contact contractors specializing in sealcoating in Long Island as soon as possible.
What’s the Most Common Cause of Long Island Sealcoating Failure?
There are many reasons why Long Island asphalt sealcoating can fail. But the most common culprit is poor surface preparation!
It’s important to remember that cured sealcoating is a thin barrier over your existing asphalt. Its purpose is to shield the material from the elements and protect it from wear. Think of it as a durable wrap over your asphalt.
A tight bond is crucial for successful asphalt sealcoating application. The sealer needs a clean, well-prepared surface to adhere to. Otherwise, flaking, peeling and discoloration will occur.
What Can Asphalt Sealcoating Contractors Do to Prevent Premature Sealcoat Failure?
The most important part of Long Island sealcoating is surface prep. Experienced asphalt sealcoating contractors understand this and will take extra time to ensure your pavement is ready for application.
Cleaning is a big part of preparation. Prior to your sealcoating appointment, you can powerwash your pavement, pick up trash, sweep away dust and remove vegetation.
Experts should also take care of any necessary repair work before sealcoating. Sealer won’t fix major problems like alligator cracking or potholes, and attempting to sealcoat over them will only cause premature failure.
Contractors should also address more subtle issues like tree sap, oil stains and chemical spills. Petroleum-based automotive fluids are a common cause of failure, so your contractor should take steps to clean and remove them.
In What Situations Would Asphalt Sealcoating Contractors Use a Primer?
Proper cleaning and preparation can make all the difference when sealcoating in Long Island. However, there are some instances when your contractor may use a primer. Primers help improve the bond between the sealer and your pavement.
Typically, teams will apply it over possible points of failure, such as major oil stains that are too stubborn to clean completely. Contractors will also use primer on parts of your pavement that use a smoother aggregate.
Some properties have polished aggregate near parking lot entrance and exit points to achieve a slicker finish. While beautiful, the lack of texture can cause issues when sealcoating in Long Island. Fortunately, you can mitigate them with primer.
Can Excessive Asphalt Sealcoating in Long Island Cause Issues?
It’s not just a lack of preparation that can cause sealcoat failure. Excessive sealer application may be to blame.
Ideally, you should invest in Long Island asphalt sealcoating every three to five years. Contrary to popular belief, sealcoating more often is not a good choice. Applying too much can make it impossible to achieve a tight bond, resulting in peeling, cracks and more.
Asphalt also needs time to lose its excess oil before you apply asphalt sealcoating in Long Island for the first time. Generally, waiting at least 90 days after initial paving is best. Waiting even longer is usually better.
Are you dealing with peeling sealcoat and lackluster pavement protection? Let Empire Industries help. We’re Long Island’s best asphalt paving and maintenance company. We serve property owners in and around Long Island, offering several services to keep your pavement in good shape. Our team can handle asphalt sealcoating projects of any size. We also do new paving, asphalt repairs, crackfilling, parking lot maintenance and striping.
We’re eager to show you why we’re Long Island’s best. We’ve built a reputation for quality workmanship and reliability. Call Empire Industries at (631)566-0058 to get a free quote. We’re also available via email at Empireindustries1@aol.com or through our online contact form.
