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Why Choose an Asphalt Professional in Puyallup, WA?

Fri, 18 Jul 2025 15:46:08 GMT

In Puyallup, WA, the environment is both beautiful and demanding—especially on paved surfaces. Rainfall is abundant, winters bring occasional freezing temperatures, and tree-lined streets often cause unexpected pavement issues. Whether you're a homeowner, property manager, or business owner, you’ve likely dealt with these challenges firsthand. That’s where an asphalt professional in Puyallup, WA comes in. Pavement issues here aren't just about aesthetics—they affect safety, longevity, and property value. Hiring a trusted contractor who understands the specific climate, soil, and infrastructure conditions of Puyallup is essential. The right approach not only addresses current issues but also helps prevent future damage.

Why a Local Asphalt Contractor in Puyallup, WA Makes All the Difference

When you work with an asphalt contractor, you’re choosing someone familiar with the local terrain, weather patterns, and municipal expectations. Unlike generic services, a local contractor brings tailored solutions that are proven to perform in this unique environment. From site preparation to final sealcoating, Sealtech Asphalt ensures that every layer of your pavement is designed to endure Puyallup’s natural elements. Their deep understanding of materials, drainage techniques, and damage prevention translates to long-term savings for you.

The Biggest Asphalt Challenges in Puyallup, WA

Let’s take a closer look at the environmental factors that cause recurring issues for paved surfaces in Puyallup.

Heavy Rainfall & Inadequate Drainage

Puyallup experiences a significant amount of rain throughout the year. This makes moisture infiltration one of the biggest culprits in pavement deterioration. When water can’t properly drain, it seeps into the sub-base, weakening the structure and causing cracks, rutting, and eventual potholes.

An asphalt professional in Puyallup, WA prioritizes slope, grading, and drainage systems during installation or resurfacing to prevent this problem from recurring. Without proper water management, even new pavement won’t last.

Freeze-Thaw Cycles

Although Puyallup winters are generally moderate, the freeze-thaw effect still plays a significant role in degrading asphalt. Water that enters small surface cracks freezes, expands, and widens the openings. Over time, this process accelerates deterioration.

Professional contractors use flexible asphalt mixes designed to expand and contract without cracking. In addition, sealcoating helps keep moisture from penetrating the surface, adding a layer of protection against freeze-thaw damage.

Tree Root Intrusion

Tree roots are another major threat to paved surfaces in Puyallup’s older, greener neighborhoods. While trees enhance curb appeal, their roots can lift, crack, and displace asphalt from below. This creates not only unsightly bumps but also trip hazards.

An experienced asphalt contractor in Puyallup, WA will assess nearby vegetation and recommend root barriers or reinforced sub-base construction to counteract potential damage while preserving the landscape.

Solutions From an Asphalt Professional in Puyallup, WA

Instead of patching problems temporarily, Sealtech Asphalt delivers solutions that address the root causes of pavement damage.

Comprehensive Site Evaluation

Each project begins with a thorough inspection. Sealtech evaluates soil conditions, drainage flow, and existing damage to determine the best course of action. This allows them to design solutions that fit your property's specific needs.

Custom Asphalt Mixes

Not all asphalt is created equal. A skilled asphalt professional in Puyallup, WA uses weather-appropriate mixtures that perform better in wet, cold, or shifting conditions. These materials reduce cracking and extend the lifespan of the pavement.

Drainage-Focused Design

For properties experiencing pooling or water erosion, the contractor may recommend trench drains, catch basins, or regrading. Directing water away from the surface is essential to preventing long-term damage and maintaining the integrity of the sub-base.

Protective Sealcoating & Crack Filling

Sealcoating not only revitalizes the look of your asphalt but also protects it from the elements. Regular maintenance—including crack filling and sealcoating—can significantly extend the lifespan of your pavement and delay the need for costly replacement.

Root Barrier Installation

For areas with mature trees, installing root barriers during paving helps prevent future displacement. This strategic step maintains a flat, hazard-free surface without harming your greenery.

Long-Term Benefits of Hiring an Asphalt Professional in Puyallup, WA

Investing in a qualified asphalt contractor in Puyallup, WA isn’t just about fixing visible damage—it’s a smart decision that enhances your property’s value and functionality.

Enhanced Aesthetics and Curb Appeal

A well-paved driveway or parking lot dramatically improves the look of any property. For businesses, this creates a positive first impression. For homeowners, it adds pride and polish to your curbside appearance.

Increased Property Value

Well-maintained pavement is an asset. It’s one of the first things prospective buyers or tenants notice, and it signals that the property has been well cared for. This translates into higher property value and better marketability.

Cost Savings Over Time

Timely maintenance and proper installation reduce the frequency and cost of future repairs. Instead of recurring fixes every season, you get a long-lasting surface that holds up under pressure.

Why Choose Sealtech Asphalt as Your Asphalt Contractor in Puyallup, WA?

Sealtech Asphalt is known for delivering reliable, high-quality asphalt services throughout Puyallup and the surrounding areas. With years of experience and a focus on customer satisfaction, they handle everything from installations and resurfacing to sealcoating and repair. Sealtech takes pride in offering long-term solutions, not short-term patches. Their commitment to understanding local challenges makes them the top choice for any homeowner or business seeking a trusted asphalt professional in Puyallup, WA.

Schedule Your Free Estimate Today

Whether you’re dealing with potholes, cracked driveways, or stormwater runoff issues, Sealtech Asphalt is ready to help. With experience, materials tailored to the Puyallup climate, and a proven track record, they’re the asphalt professional in Puyallup, WA that property owners trust. Schedule your free estimate and take the first step toward safe, attractive, and long-lasting pavement.

Asphalt Contractor in Puyallup, WA | Sealtech Asphalt

Jason.Calope@thryv.com (Jason Calope) — Mon, 03 Mar 2025 14:49:28 GMT

When it comes to maintaining the quality and safety of your property's surfaces, finding a reliable asphalt contractor in Puyallup, WA , is crucial. Whether you need minor repairs or a complete resurfacing, working with experienced professionals ensures long-lasting results and value for your investment. With Puyallup's changing weather conditions, having well-maintained asphalt can prevent costly damages and enhance curb appeal.

Why Hire an Asphalt Professional in Puyallup, WA?

Partnering with an asphalt professional in Puyallup, WA, brings a wealth of expertise to your project. These specialists understand the local climate's impact on asphalt and use high-quality materials designed to withstand heavy rainfall and temperature fluctuations. From asphalt patching to complete driveway installations, they deliver tailored solutions that meet your specific needs. Moreover, professional contractors ensure efficient project management, reducing disruptions and completing tasks on schedule. Their attention to detail and commitment to safety guarantee a smooth and durable finish, enhancing the functionality and appearance of your property.

Comprehensive Services Offered by Asphalt Contractors in Puyallup, WA

An experienced asphalt contractor in Puyallup, WA , provides a wide range of services, including:

Asphalt Patching: Ideal for repairing minor cracks and potholes, preventing further deterioration.
Driveway Resurfacing: Refreshes the look of your driveway and extends its lifespan.
Parking Lot Maintenance: Ensures safety and a professional appearance for commercial properties.
Sealcoating: Protects asphalt surfaces from weather damage and enhances their longevity.

Choosing a contractor who offers comprehensive services means you can address all your asphalt needs in one place, saving time and money.

How to Choose the Right Asphalt Professional in Puyallup, WA

When selecting an asphalt professional in Puyallup, WA, consider the following factors:

Experience and Reputation: Look for contractors with a proven track record of successful projects in Puyallup.
Licensed and Insured: Ensure they are fully licensed and insured to protect yourself from liability.
Quality Materials and Equipment: The use of premium materials and modern equipment guarantees durability and a flawless finish.
Customer Reviews and Testimonials: Reading feedback from previous clients provides insight into their work quality and customer service.

Ready to enhance the safety and aesthetics of your property? Trust the top-rated Asphalt Contractor in Puyallup, WA to deliver exceptional results. Whether you need asphalt patching, driveway resurfacing, or sealcoating, our team of experts is here to help. Call us at 1 (877) 536-8633 today for a free estimate and let us provide you with reliable and efficient asphalt solutions.

Winterizing Your Asphalt: Protecting Your Puyallup Driveway

Tue, 04 Feb 2025 12:03:31 GMT

Winter can be harsh on your driveway, especially in Puyallup, WA. Cold temperatures, ice, and snow can wreak havoc on asphalt, leading to costly repairs if not addressed early. At Sealtech Asphalt, our team of experienced asphalt professionals in Puyallup, WA, knows exactly what your driveway needs to withstand winter weather.

Below, we’ll explore how the freeze-thaw cycle affects your asphalt, what winterization steps you can take, and why hiring an asphalt contractor in Puyallup, WA, is a smart investment to keep your driveway in great shape.

Why Winter is Tough on Asphalt

In Puyallup, WA, winter brings the freeze-thaw cycle, which can cause cracks and potholes in asphalt. Water seeps into small cracks, freezes and expands, widening the damage. When it thaws, the process repeats. Hiring a professional like Sealtech Asphalt can help protect your driveway from winter wear by providing preventative maintenance.

Key Winterization Steps to Protect Your Driveway

1. Fill Cracks and Sealcoat

One of the most effective ways to prepare your driveway for winter is to fill any cracks and apply a sealcoat. Crack filling prevents water from seeping into the asphalt, reducing the chances of expansion-related damage. Sealcoating, on the other hand, adds a protective layer that helps keep water and chemicals like road salt from penetrating the surface.

A professional sealcoating job by an asphalt contractor in Puyallup, WA will not only help your driveway look better but also extend its lifespan. Sealtech Asphalt offers sealcoating services tailored to withstand harsh winter conditions, ensuring your driveway stays intact.

2. Ensure Proper Drainage

Poor drainage is another factor that can lead to asphalt deterioration. If water pools on your driveway, it increases the likelihood of freeze-thaw damage. Our team at Sealtech Asphalt can evaluate the drainage around your driveway and recommend solutions to keep water from accumulating, such as installing small channels or adjusting the asphalt slope.

3. Regular Cleaning

Debris like leaves, dirt, and branches can trap moisture, accelerating wear on your asphalt. Regularly sweeping your driveway and keeping it clear is an easy but effective way to prevent damage. Consider hiring an asphalt professional in Puyallup, WA, to perform a pre-winter cleaning and inspection to catch potential issues before they escalate.

4. Minimize Salt Use

Salt is commonly used to melt ice, but it can harm asphalt if applied too frequently. As a trusted asphalt contractor in Puyallup, WA, Sealtech Asphalt suggests using sand as an alternative, which can provide traction without causing as much harm. If you must use salt, try to limit it to areas prone to ice buildup and avoid over-application.

Why Trust Sealtech Asphalt for Your Winterization Needs?

Sealtech Asphalt is a local expert when it comes to asphalt maintenance and protection in Puyallup, WA. Our experienced team uses high-quality materials and proven methods to ensure your driveway is winter-ready. Whether you need crack filling, sealcoating, or drainage improvements, our services are designed to keep your asphalt durable, safe, and attractive.

Winter weather can quickly turn minor cracks into costly repairs. By investing in professional asphalt services with Sealtech Asphalt, you’re not only protecting your driveway but also preserving your property value.

For expert help from trusted asphalt contractors in Puyallup, WA, visit our website ; or give us a call today to schedule a consultation.

Taking steps to protect your driveway now can save you from costly repairs down the road. Let Sealtech Asphalt be your go-to asphalt professional in Puyallup, WA for winterizing your driveway.

Maintenance Tips That Make Asphalt Parking Lots Last

Fri, 30 Nov 2018 19:27:47 GMT

You don’t want to let your asphalt parking lot get out of hand. A poorly maintained asphalt parking lot will leave a bad impression for your visitors and will cost you more money in the long-run. However, there are actions you can take to reduce the damage your asphalt parking lot suffers so you won't have to repave as often.

Keep Your Parking Lot Clean

Business owners can implement a variety of ways to keep their parking lot clean.

Pick Up Trash

Clean your parking lot regularly. When you clean your asphalt parking lot regularly, it won't stain or become damaged as often. Dirt often builds up on asphalt parking lots and customers will often leave trash behind.

Placing garbage cans around your property can allow customers to throw away their garbage, but you may still find some trash scattered around your parking lot that you must clean up.

One reason why you must clean your asphalt parking lot is because debris will prevent moisture from draining away, which can cause more damage to your parking lot. Not only will pools of water increase the number of potholes and cracks, but a damp, mucky pool of water is not a good look for your parking lot.

Drain Your Parking Lot

Make sure that your parking lot drains properly to avoid pools of water. If you have a drain to remove water from your parking lot, make sure that the drain isn't backed up. Clear your basin. If you are constructing a new parking lot, make sure that it slopes enough to allow the water to drain away easily.

Invest in a Pressure Washer

If you have a very dirty parking lot, one option is to hire a professional pressure washing company that will wash away gum, paint, trash and all sorts of other debris. You could also purchase a pressure washer if you'd like your staff to handle this task instead.

Remove Oil Stains Quickly

Some cars may leave behind fuel or oil stains, so you'll want to clean these types of stains up quickly to avoid damage to your asphalt parking lot. Try using a degreasing cleaning agent meant for asphalt parking lots.

Preform Regular Maintenance Tasks

Business owners can keep their parking lot in good shape by following some basic maintenance tasks.

Remove Emerging Tree Roots and Weeds

If you notice any tree roots sprouting out of your parking lot, deal with them promptly. These look unsightly, can be a tripping hazard, and can interfere with the drainage of your parking lot. Any weeds growing out of cracks will slowly wear down your parking lot and force you to repair it more often.

Have Salt and Sand Available

Keep salt and sand on hand for when it starts snowing. The salt slows down ice formation and makes shoveling snow easier. Your property will be safer for customers to use and you won't have to worry as much about the ice damaging your parking lot.

Sodium chloride is the most commonly used salt for deicing because it is affordable and widely available. However, if you anticipate that temperatures will fall below 15 degrees Fahrenheit, you may need to use another type of salt, such as calcium chloride.

Also, make sure to shovel your parking lot promptly or hire a professional snow plow service.

Ask Employees to Rotate Where They Park

If your parking lot will only be used by employees, encourage them to rotate their parking lot spots. Ask your employees not to make hard turns while their cars are in motion because this will dig into the asphalt and create impressions.

Eventually, you'll need to repair or replace your asphalt parking lot. When the time comes, call Sealtech Asphalt. We can repair your parking lot in the Tacoma, Washington, area. We handle asphalt patching, crack-filling, sealcoating, and striping.

4 Types of Compaction Forces

Thu, 22 Nov 2018 02:15:47 GMT

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Compaction lies at the heart of every paving project, whether you're using asphalt or concrete. In the case of asphalt,compaction helps to ensure a tight, smooth surface. However,even before asphalt or concrete can be placed, the underlying ground must be evenly compacted. This process ensures a stable foundation and prevents problems that might otherwise occur as the result of shifting soil density.

Paving contractors carry out the process of compaction using heavy-duty machines appropriately known as compactors. But not all compactors are the same. These machines may differ in terms of the particular types of compaction forces they utilize.

This article will help to further your understanding of paving installation by discussing the four types of compaction forces used to ensure stable, long-lasting paving results

1. Static Pressure

Static pressure is the most basic form of compaction. Virtually all objects exert some degree of static pressure compaction. The greater a particular weight, the more static pressure it will exert. Therefore,a human will only exert a fraction of the static pressure of a compacting machine, which can easily weigh upward of 19 metric tons.

Static pressure creates shear stresses. A shear stress acts to cause particles to slide across one another, forming tighter and more stable configurations. But static pressure doesn't work equally at all depths. It holds the most power at the surface and at shallow depths, but it will do relatively little when it comes to deeper soil.

2. Manipulation

Manipulation,also sometimes referred to as kneading,acts to compress materials at a greater depth. It does so by reducing the surface area at each particular point of compaction. This enables the compactor to exert a more localized - and hence greater - amount of force in each particular area.

The best example of manipulation as a compaction force comes in the form of so-called sheepsfoot compactors. Standard compactors consist of a smooth metal drum. A sheepsfoot compactor, on the other hand,consists of a drum studded with protrusions. These act to knead the soil more intensely, which produces deeper and more efficient compaction.

Sheepsfoot compactors are used exclusively for compacting soil. A second type of compactor that uses manipulation is a pneumatic roller. Rather than a single drum,a pneumatic roller consists of a row of closely spaced but independent roller wheels. Pneumatic rollers are suitable for compacting both soil and asphalt.

3. Impact

Both static pressure and manipulation harness the power of gravity to accomplish compaction. Impact compaction takes a more proactive approach. Here, the compactor literally hits the surface of the ground. This contact increases the amount of force it exerts. It also sends a localized pressure wave straight down into the ground.

Numerous types ofcompactors harness impact forces - fromsimple handheld rammers to vehicle-mounted hydraulic hammers. Allsuch compactors produceimpacts in fast,continuous sequences. For this reason, you can generally find impactcompactors rated in terms ofthe number of blows per minute.

4. Vibration

Vibration forces are closely related to impact forces. In fact, the two can be easily confused. Where impact compaction involves forces that move straight down, vibration compaction consists of pressure waves that spread out through the ground in all directions. Vibratory compactors induce this type of force through the use of eccentric weights.

Vibratory compactors differ from one another according to a number of different metrics. Amplitude expresses the vertical distance traveled by the vibrating drum. Meanwhile, frequency designates the number of times that the internal eccentric weight revolves in a set period of time. Manufacturers express this value in terms of vibrations per minute.

As you can see,compaction can be accomplished in a variety of different ways. An experienced contractor knows what type of compaction to use in any given situation. For more information about the types of compaction forces best suited for your next paving project, please call the expert team at Sealtech Asphalt

When to Seal Asphalt Driveways

Thu, 18 Oct 2018 21:50:26 GMT

Periodically sealing asphalt driveways helps driveways resist deterioration and last longer. Specifically, sealing prevents individual stones from eroding and cracks from forming by keeping water from penetrating the asphalt. If you have an asphalt driveway, then here's a guide on when to have it sealed.

Have Your Driveway Sealed After at Least Six Months
First, new driveways shouldn't be sealed within six months of installation because oils in them need to evaporate.

While it takes only a few days for driveways to cure enough so you can park on them, some oils remain in driveways for months. As long as these oils are in asphalt, the asphalt won't be as hard and strong as it could be.

Waiting at least six months between installing a new driveway and sealing it gives the oils in the asphalt ample time to evaporate. Sealing any sooner will trap the oils in the asphalt and the driveway won't be as durable as it should be.

However, sealing is rarely needed six months after a driveway is installed. If your driveway is really in need of sealing this soon after installation, then there might have been an issue with the initial paving. Contact the paving company that put your driveway in and ask them about any problems that are developing.

Have Your Driveway Sealed Every Two to Three Years
Once your asphalt driveway is installed, the general guideline is to seal it every two to three years. Oversealing can actually be detrimental and can create hairline cracks in the sealant and lead to peeling.

Whether two or three years is a better interval for your particular driveway depends on several variables, including the driveway's age, the vehicles you park on it, and the local climate. A professional driveway paving and sealing company can help you determine the exact interval of time to have your driveway sealed based on these factors.

Have Your Driveway Sealed When Individual Stones Are Visible
If you don't know when your asphalt driveway was last sealed, you can go by the driveway's appearance. When individual stones within the asphalt can be distinguished, the driveway should be sealed. If individual stones are visible, they're either already flaking off or will be soon. The sealant will help hold the stones together and stop water from penetrating between the stones.

Have Your Driveway Sealed When Cracks Appear
Similarly, anytime cracks are visible your driveway should be sealed. Cracks are especially bad for driveways, as they allow large amounts of water (which can freeze in cold climates) and debris in under the surface of the asphalt.

If you see any cracks, then you might be able to have just the cracks sealed or you may need the entire driveway sealed depending on how large, deep, and numerous the cracks are.

Have Your Driveway Sealed When the Weather is Warm and Dry
If you decide your driveway needs to be sealed, then schedule the work on a warm day when precipitation isn't in the weather forecast. The temperature should be at least 45 degrees Fahrenheit for a few days, and warmer temperatures are even better. Additionally, rain shouldn't be in the forecast at least two days so the sealant has time to dry.

Have Your Driveway Sealed Before Late Afternoon
If you live in a place that's prone to fog or dew, then make sure your driveway is sealed before late afternoon. The job should be completed while the sun is still fairly high in the sky and temperatures are close to their peak for the day. This will ensure the asphalt has time to initially dry before the next morning's dew or fog washes the sealant off.

Asphalt will still need additional time to dry before it can withstand a rainstorm, but applying earlier in the day lets it cure enough so that fog or dew won't cause any damage. To have your driveway sealed contact our experts at Sealtech Asphalt.

Benefits of Sealcoating Your Parking Lot | Sealtech Asphalt

Mon, 10 Sep 2018 17:53:42 GMT

4 Benefits of Sealcoating Your Business's Parking Lot

If you have recently had a new parking lot paved for your business, you may believe that the job is completed. While this may be true as far as the structure of your lot goes, you should consider the four benefits of finishing the job by having sealcoating applied to the surface.

1. Protects the Asphalt From Chemicals

You never know the condition of your customers' vehicles. A vehicle can leak oil, transmission fluid, and even gasoline.

Any of these chemicals are harmful to the asphalt, which readily absorbs them. These chemicals not only stain and mar the appearance of the
parking lot but also penetrate deep into the surface. Over time, these areas can start to crack and crumble as the chemicals break the asphalt
apart.

When your parking lot has sealcoating, it has a layer of protection against these chemicals. The chemicals not only take longer to penetrate the
surface but are also easier to rinse away.

2. Forms a Barrier Against Moisture

If you have a business in Washington State, you know that the area receives quite a bit of precipitation. With an average yearly rainfall of 43
inches, the amount of moisture your parking lot is subjected to is above the national average.

When asphalt is exposed to tremendous amounts of rain, it deteriorates faster. As the asphalt breaks down, puddles form on the surface. This
puddling creates more breakdown and causes cracking, crumbling, and potholes.

However, after sealcoating is applied, the asphalt is protected from the moisture. The barrier formed by the sealcoating helps the water glide off
the surface instead of penetrating down into the porous material.

3. Speeds Up the Melting of Snow and Ice
Although Washington State typically only receives, on average, around 4 inches of snow per year, snowfall still poses a threat to your parking lot.
When snow and ice embed themselves inside the nooks and crannies of the asphalt, they slowly melt and expand at the same time that the
material contracts from the cold.

This combination of expansion and contraction quickly leads to damage if the snow and ice are not removed. Then, when the precipitation melts, it stays inside the porous surface of the asphalt, creating even more breakdown of the material.

However, sealcoating helps speed up the melting of snow and ice. Because the layer traps in the warmth from the sun's rays, the asphalt remains warm longer. This warmth then radiates upward and melts the snow and ice. Then, when the frozen precipitation melts, the sealcoating protects the lot's surface from the sudden increase in water.

4. Improves Your Business's Overall Appearance
When your parking lot is still new, the dark tones of the asphalt look clean and professional. These traits then add to your business's overall
appearance and give new customers a good first impression as they drive into the lot.

However, over time, exposure to the sun's rays and excessive moisture make the color of the asphalt fade. Also, the drying effects of the sun and
the destructive properties of moisture create cracks and potholes. The imperfections of an older parking lot could then leave a bad first impression on new customers.

When your parking lot is sealcoated, however, the surface layer protects the asphalt from UV rays, allowing it to retain its color and pristine condition. Your parking lot looks like new for longer, improving the appearance of your business.

Consider these advantages of sealcoating your business's parking lot, and contact Sealtech Asphalt for more information or to discuss your
options. We provide our services to Tacoma, WA, and the surrounding areas, so contact us today to discuss your sealcoating options.

SealAsphalt Cracks the Right Way | SealtechAsphalt

Wed, 11 Jul 2018 21:50:19 GMT

Asphalt continues to be one of the most popular paving options for both residential and commercial purposes - and for good reason. Asphalt possesses an unbeatable durability,as well as sleek good looks. Of course,an asphalt surface may still develop problematic cracks as time goes on.

Fortunately, cracks can be easy to deal with, provided you have a professional attend to them quickly. This article will cover information about how an asphalt contractor can eliminate problems caused by cracks. Specifically, it will outline three of the most important factors when it comes to asphalt crack sealing.

1 . Use the Appropriate Crack Sealant

Asphalt crack repair involves filling up the crack with a flexible, stable, and long lasting sealant. Many people out side the asphalt industry assume that only one type of crack seal ant exists. Actually, a large variety of sealants can be found on the market today. Using a less appropriate sealant increases the risk of the crack opening back up as time goes on.

An experienced asphalt contractor understands the various factors that must be considered when selected the appropriate sealant for a job. These factors include the work ability of the sealant, its cure time, its level of adhesiveness,and its general resistance to softening when exposed to heat and light.

Likewise, the elasticity of the sealant plays a large factor. Cracks that may continue to grow or separate require that a more elastic sealant be used. A more rigid sealant, on the other hand, will easily pull away from the walls - or develop cracks of its own - as the asphalt continue to shift.

Finally, the sealant's ability to resist wear and abrasion must betaken into consideration. If the crack being sealed happens to lie in the middle o fa high- traffic roadway, a tougher, more resistant sealant must be selected. By contrast, wear resistance won't be as huge of a factor for cracks that lie in less traveled areas, such as the edge of a residential driveway.

2. Prepare the Site Carefully

No matter how wells elected a sealant, it won't last long unless the crack has been adequately prepared. Any loose material must be swept clear. Likewise,any plants growing in or around the crack must be thoroughly removed. Proper result scan only be achieved if the crack in question is clean and dry.

Professional asphalt contractors often prepare asphalt cracks using a tool alternately known as either a heat lance or a hot air lance. As the latter name suggests, this tool uses a stream of exceedingly hot air to scour out the inside of the crack.

The temperature of a hot air lance may be as great as 3,000 degrees Fahrenheit. The combination of high temperature and pressurized air allows a heat lance to achieve three key goals.

First, the heat lance removes any water from the inside of the crack - literally boiling it out of existence. Second, it burns out any organic matter. Third, it heats up the surrounding asphalt. By decreasing the temperature difference between the asphalt and the sealant, a stronger and more lasting repair can be ensured.

3. Preheat the Sealant

Many asphalt sealants must be applied at certain temperatures. In other words, like asphalt itself, the sealant must be brought to an appropriate temperature before application. This heating takes place inside of the sealant melter. Most sealants must be heated to between 350 and 410 degrees Fahrenheit.

An experienced asphalt contractor understands the importance of preheating asphalt sealant. They will ensure that application temperatures are kept within the manufacturer's specified range. This increases the chances of a strong bond forming between the sealant and the walls of the crack.

Dealing with asphalt cracks quickly and correctly extends the life of an asphalt surface. Fora better understanding about what it takes to get this job done the right way,contact the paving pros at Sealtech Asphalt.

Why Your Asphalt Parking Lot Needs Patching | Sealtech Asphalt Inc.

Tue, 12 Dec 2017 00:00:00 GMT

4 Reasons Your Asphalt Parking Lot Needs Patching

Asphalt parking lots may look relatively invulnerable, but like anything else left out in the weather, they can degrade over time. Whether you've fallen behind on maintenance or whether the asphalt is cracking and crumbling because of faulty construction or installation, seeing potholes and alligator cracks appear can be quite a disconcerting experience.

If this does happen to you, you may want to find out what the underlying problem is in order to make informed decisions about repairs. Here are four reasons these types of damages can occur.

1. Weathering

The weather doesn't have any immediately apparent effect on your parking lot, but over time, the damage builds up. Different types of weather, such as UV rays, fluctuating temperatures, and freeze-thaw cycles, can affect the asphalt in various ways:

UV rays degrade the quality of the tarry substance holding the pavement together, making the pavement less supple and more crumbly.
Fluctuating temperatures cause the asphalt to expand and contract, causing cracks, especially after the pavement has sustained some UV damage and is more brittle.
Freeze-thaw cycles attack your asphalt by causing water that's settled in little crannies in your pavement to expand, forcing the cranny's edges apart to cause cracks.

As you can see, the outside world is no friend to your parking lot. Even if this is the only factor causing cracks, you still need to keep up with maintenance if you want a long-lived asphalt surface and hope to avoid potholes.

2. High Traffic

Heavy traffic levels (especially extremely heavy vehicles) can not only cause cracks but also other types of damage such as buckling — and they can eventually lead to potholes as well.

The more customers you get, the more stress your pavement takes, which is why experts recommend that you occasionally have your parking lot re-painted. By repainting your parking lot and designating new parking areas, you allow different areas of the parking lot to take the heaviest traffic, extending the life of your parking lot.

3. Incorrect Installation

You may have inherited your parking lot from the previous facility owner, and if so, you may not have been around when the parking lot was installed. But you can probably imagine how many problems can occur if the contractor did a poor installation job. Here are just a few of them:

Alligator cracking
Sunken areas/depressions
Buckling
Slippage cracks
Ruts

Some of these, such as alligator cracking, can be caused by other problems. However, if your pavement is only one or two years old and already has alligator cracks, that's not normal.

4. Oil Leaks

Depending on the type of business you have, your customers may leave their cars in your parking lot for hours at a time — and some of the cars may have slow oil leaks. Oil leaks are a problem for you because the oil breaks down the tarry glue holding your parking lot together, leaving the spot unprotected. If they are not cleaned up, these oil spots can actually lead to potholes.

The initial damage is less extreme. First, the oil eats away at the surface of the asphalt and allows water through. Next, the water works its way all the way down through the layers and causes water damage to the parking lot's foundational levels. Then the entire area of asphalt deteriorates, becomes shot through with cracks, and eventually breaks up until a crater forms.

If you don't patch the area before the pothole finishes forming, the damage could already be spreading to the surrounding asphalt and weakening it as well.

Knowing that your asphalt needs patching is the first step towards getting it patched. The next step is contacting a reputable and experienced company in your area for a quote, so give Sealtech Asphalt Inc. a call today to discuss how we can help you.