Differences Between Sealed and Unsealed Parking Lots

Differences Between Sealed and Unsealed Parking Lots

What are some of the differences between sealed and unsealed parking lots?

An asphalt parking lot generally lasts about 20-30 years, but this is only the case if you take care of your pavement. Proper parking lot maintenance is key to getting the most use out of your lot, and part of this includes sealing your pavement regularly. Sealcoating involves applying a layer of sealcoating over your asphalt to protect it from external elements.

So, how exactly does a sealed parking lot differ from an unsealed lot, and how often should you sealcoat your pavement? Read on to learn more about this so that you can keep your parking lot always looking fresh and attractive.

Sealcoating for Parking Lots

As durable as your asphalt parking lot may be, it is not immune to wear and tear and the effects of weathering. Over time, your pavement may develop hairline cracks and fade in color. It is where sealcoating comes in.

The sealant mixture is usually water-soluble, so it needs to be completely dry before you reopen the parking lot for vehicles. Fortunately, the drying and curing time generally takes up to 36 hours, so the process is relatively quick, and downtime is not expected to be too long.

Sealed vs. Unsealed Parking Lot

In terms of appearance, a sealed parking lot will look brand new since the coating provides a dark black finish to refresh your pavement. It may seem trivial, but your parking lot can affect a person’s first impression when visiting or inspecting your property. Thus, it’s important for property managers to take the time and effort to ensure the parking lot looks appealing.

Similarly, sealcoating your parking lot can also help seal cracks of up to â…› inch. Most pavement cracks start small before getting bigger. Of course, if you have just recently sealed your lot, you should opt to have the cracks filled.

Overall, having a sealed parking lot comes with many benefits. In contrast, an unsealed lot will look worn since the sun’s UV rays will cause it to fade into a dull gray. It is also more vulnerable to water intrusion since water can easily enter through the cracks and potholes that are left unsealed.

How Often Should You Sealcoat Your Parking Lot?

Generally, it is recommended that you sealcoat your parking lot once every three to five years. However, the frequency will ultimately vary based on factors like traffic, weather, and the age of your parking lot. For example, your asphalt pavement is on the older side and starting to show signs of wear and tear, you may have to sealcoat your lot more often.

Make sure to consult with a professional to know the optimal frequency for sealcoating. While it is ideal to do this regularly, you also want to avoid overdoing it since this can cause the coating layers to peel off.

Importance of Parking Lot Maintenance

Overall, sealcoating is a crucial aspect of asphalt maintenance since it protects your pavement from external elements and prolongs its longevity. Aside from this, other important tasks you should include in your maintenance plan would be pothole repair, parking lot striping, and crack sealing.

Get Professional Asphalt Sealcoating Today

A sealed parking lot undoubtedly comes with many benefits like increased curb appeal and a prolonged lifespan, so regular sealcoating should be part of your maintenance plan. Contact ACPLM today at 888-959-9637 to get your parking lot sealed. We offer a range of asphalt repair services to help keep your parking lot in its best condition. Contact our team today to schedule a free consultation.

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With over 50 years of combined industry experience, the pros at ACPLM are experts at what they do. Our full service concrete repair and pavement services range from complete installation to minor maintenance projects and everything in between. Call 888-959-9637 today to speak with one of our trusted advisers.