To truly maximize the benefits of asphalt seal coating and crack filling, strategic implementation and adherence to best practices are essential. Crown Paving will always communicate the recommended waiting period and the factors that might extend it. While it might feel inconvenient to close off a portion of your parking lot, allowing the full preparation, application, drying and curing times is all part of the investment in the longevity of the repair.
Thorough Preparation is Key
Before any application, the asphalt surface must be thoroughly cleaned of debris, dirt, and oil. Critically, all existing cracks and potholes must be properly cleaned and filled before seal coating. This ensures the sealant adheres correctly and provides maximum protection. Pressure washing can be used for more stubborn, embedded dirt, grime, or moss. This also helps open the surface pores slightly, allowing for better seal coat penetration and adhesion. Biodegradable degreasers are applied to the stained areas, agitated with a brush, and then thoroughly rinsed away. Sometimes, a primer might be applied to these treated spots to ensure optimal seal coat adhesion.
Drying and Curing
Maintenance applications require 24 to 48 hours of drying time before the surface is ready for vehicle traffic. Proper curing ensures the material forms a strong, lasting bond with the underlying asphalt. Without it, the material can delaminate, peel, or flake off. The chemical reactions during curing are what give the seal coat its toughness and resistance to abrasion from tires, UV degradation, and chemical spills. If curing is rushed, the material remains softer and more susceptible to wear.
Consequences of Rushing the Process
- Premature Failure: The material won’t bond properly, will wear away quickly, or won’t provide the intended protection.
- Tracking and Mess: Sticky residue carried by vehicles and shoes, causing stains and complaints.
- Soft Spots/Gummy Areas: Your pavement may remain soft or tacky, especially in shaded or low-airflow areas, leading to impressions from tires or further pick-up.
- Blistering/Peeling: If traffic is allowed too soon, the material can blister or peel off due to the mechanical stress before it has fully adhered and hardened.