Learn how the process of blacktop sealcoating is done by asphalt paving professionals.
One of the best options for keeping your asphalt parking lot well-maintained is to sealcoat the pavement every few years. Hiring professionals for blacktop sealcoating services is a cost-effective investment that offers a wide range of benefits. For example, sealcoating an asphalt parking lot helps to protect it against water penetration, oil spots, and UV rays. You are also much less likely to need repairs if your parking lot is sealed.
Here is a step-by-step overview of how professionals perform blacktop sealcoating services:
Block Off the Area Within Your Parking Lot
The parking lot will need to be blocked off before the sealcoating process can begin. Turning off any water sprinkler systems is also important to avoid any problems while using the sealcoating application. Water sprinklers will need to be turned off for at least 24 hours to give the asphalt emulsion plenty of time to dry.
Typically, you can open your parking lot after 24 to 48 hours, but this is dependent on the weather conditions and the size of the area. Waiting up to 48 hours is often the safest choice to ensure the asphalt pavement is dry.
Clean the Asphalt Pavement
The asphalt surface will need to be cleaned and free of any debris to ensure the sealant can bond without any issues.
The cleaning process can vary in time based on a variety of factors, such as the square footage of the parking lot and the amount of debris on the pavement. Dirt, leaves, and stones are some of the most common debris that needs to be removed before the sealer can be applied.
Perform Repairs
Once the asphalt surface is cleaned, it’s time to perform any needed repairs. An asphalt contractor will need to remove any chemical or oil spills on the pavement before beginning the sealcoating process. Repairing small cracks and potholes is also important for making it easier to apply the coal tar emulsion to the pavement. Depending on the condition of the pavement, it may only need a few repairs, while others will need much more extensive repair work.
Seal the Pavement
The asphalt sealcoating process can begin once the repairs are finished. Typically, at least two coats of asphalt sealant are needed for blacktop sealcoating. Sometimes three coats of sealant are required if the parking lot experiences a lot of frequent traffic.
Once complete, the sealant will need to be left to dry for at least 24 to 48 hours. An asphalt contractor can also help you determine the best time to reopen your parking lot based on the weather conditions.
Restripe the Parking Lot
The entire parking lot will need to be restriped once the blacktop sealcoating is finished drying. Restriping your parking lot is a great way to give it a vibrant appearance and improve curb appeal. An asphalt contractor can even create a new layout to restripe your parking lot to help limit wear and tear. All of the pavement markings will also need to stay in compliance with the latest ADA regulations.
Conduct a Walk-Through
Once everything is complete, it’s time to perform a walk-through. An asphalt paving contractor will conduct a detailed assessment to ensure the pavement is properly sealed and all of the markings are visible.
Double-checking to make sure all of the parking lines are in compliance is also important. After the walk-through is over, you can open your parking lot to the public. Ultimately, sealcoating your pavement gives it a vibrant black finish, and it’s a great way to extend its lifespan.
Contact PLS for Blacktop Sealcoating Services in Tampa Bay
PLS offers parking lot sealcoating services for businesses and commercial property owners in the Tampa Bay area. Our team uses commercial-grade equipment to ensure you are more than satisfied with the results. We also specialize in asphalt paving, repairs, and concrete installation services. You can even reach out to us at any time to learn more about the benefits of sealcoating an asphalt surface.
Contact PLS today to schedule a free consultation for our blacktop sealcoating services!