Armada Sealcoating Experts: Residential Driveway Upkeep

Homeowners know that driveway maintenance is important, but may not fully understand best practices for protecting their investment.

Armada’s sealcoating experts have comprehensive knowledge of asphalt care and share key recommendations so homeowners can keep their driveways looking pristine for decades.

In this guide, you’ll discover the importance of routine driveway inspection and maintenance, learn the differences between repair options, see what to expect during the sealcoating process, and more.

The Importance of Driveway Maintenance

Regularly maintaining your asphalt driveway is crucial for homeowners in Armada. As the local sealcoating experts explain, it helps prevent cracks, deterioration, and other damage that can decrease curb appeal and hurt home values over time. By staying on top of inspections, repairs, and protective treatments like sealcoating, you can extend the life of your driveway while keeping it looking its best.

Assessing the Current State of Your Driveway

The first step is examining your driveway at least once a year, looking for any signs of wear like cracks, pitting, raveling (when aggregate comes loose), or discoloration. Check where the driveway meets the garage and the street, as those high-stress areas tend to show distress first. If you spot minor cracks, the Armada experts may recommend rout-and-seal repairs to prevent further damage. For more severe issues like large cracks, holes, or extensive raveling, repairs like patchwork or even repaving sections may be needed.

Understanding Asphalt Driveway Costs and Repair Options

Based on your driveway’s condition, the Armada sealcoating professionals can advise on the best repair techniques and provide reasonable cost estimates, avoiding expensive replacements down the road. For minor crack sealing, costs typically run $150-$400 on average. Larger patches usually range from $400-$1,200. And section repaving often starts around $2,500+ depending on size and materials. Understanding these options and costs allows you to budget wisely for repairs.

Choosing the Right Time for Asphalt Driveway Repairs

The Armada experts emphasize making repairs when daytime temps reach 50°F and are rising. This helps the asphalt properly cure and bond. Avoid repairs in late fall or winter, as precipitation and freezing temps can undo the work and cause issues like trapped moisture, leading to premature failures. They’ll work with you to schedule repairs during ideal weather windows so your driveway lasts.

The Benefits of Protective Asphalt Sealcoating

The Armada sealcoating professionals highly recommend applying a protective sealcoat every 2-3 years as preventative maintenance. Quality sealants fill hairline cracks, shield against UV rays, and create a water barrier that prevents moisture damage. This can extend your driveway’s lifespan by years while restoring rich black color. Expect to invest around $0.25-0.45 per sq. ft. for professional sealcoating – a small price to protect your large driveway investment.

What to Expect During the Sealcoating Process

When you hire Armada’s trusted sealcoating crew, they pressure wash and thoroughly clean your driveway first before applying the sealant using squeegees and specialty spray equipment for even coverage. The liquid sealcoat dries to a durable, protective finish within 24 hours. Expect the process to take a few hours with re-entry and vehicle access safely allowed once drying and curing is complete. Your driveway will look refreshed and be shielded from elements!

What do professionals use to seal driveway?

Professionals rely on commercial-grade asphalt sealer products to achieve quality sealcoating results. This heavy-duty sealer is formulated to withstand vehicle traffic and harsh weather conditions.

Here are some tips on choosing the right commercial sealer:

Opt for coal tar emulsion or asphalt emulsion sealers. These oil-based products provide the most durable waterproofing and protection for driveways. They have a thicker consistency for better adhesion and coverage.
Avoid acrylic sealers. Though acrylic sealers are cheaper, they wear off faster compared to emulsion sealers. Acrylics are best suited for low-traffic areas.
Buy sealers with sand additives. Sand-fortified sealers offer better traction and skid resistance once cured. The sand fills in pavement pores for a smoother finish.
Ensure the product meets ASTM industry standards. Reputable sealant brands comply with ASTM D5727 specifications for performance and quality assurance. This certification confirms their suitability for driveways.
Check if it’s compatible with your pavement type. Make sure to use a sealer designed specifically for asphalt or concrete driveways to prevent adhesion issues.

Using a premium-grade coal tar or asphalt sealer is vital for commercial-level durability on high-traffic driveways. Proper product selection also ensures better value over time compared to low-cost acrylic alternatives prone to early failure. Checking ASTM compliance further guarantees suitability towards professional sealcoating standards.

What is the difference between seal coat and asphalt?

Seal coating and asphalt paving are two common driveway maintenance services that serve different purposes. Here’s a quick overview of how they differ:

Asphalt Paving

Used to repair or replace old, damaged asphalt driveways
Involves laying down new asphalt material
Addresses major issues like cracks, pits, and deterioration

Seal Coating

Applied to protect and extend the life of asphalt driveways
Seals minor cracks and defects on the asphalt surface
Creates a protective layer to shield against weathering and wear

So in summary:

Asphalt paving is for significant repairs or full replacements
Seal coating is primarily used as a protective measure on otherwise functional asphalt

Seal coating can make driveways look fresh and new again. But it won’t fix major underlying problems in damaged asphalt. For issues like deep cracks, large holes, and completely degraded asphalt, full paving may be needed.

When in doubt, consult a professional paving company. The Armada sealcoating experts can assess your driveway and recommend the right solution. Their years of experience will guide you on whether seal coating or more extensive asphalt paving is the best choice.

Can you seal brand new asphalt?

Sealing or applying a protective coating to brand new asphalt is not recommended. Here’s what the experts at Armada Sealcoating have to say on this topic:

New asphalt needs time to properly cure and settle before sealcoating. After initial installation, asphalt goes through a curing process that can take 90 days or 3 months. During this time, the oils in the asphalt rise to the surface, allowing the material to harden. The driveway also settles into place.

Applying a sealcoat too early can cause issues:

The sealant won’t properly bond to the surface if the asphalt hasn’t hardened sufficiently. This can lead to premature failure of the sealcoat.
Outgassing from the uncured asphalt can cause bubbles and defects in the sealcoat finish.
If the driveway surface settles significantly after sealcoating, this can lead to cracks in the coating.

Wait until the asphalt driveway has been through at least one winter season before having it sealed. The freezing and thawing cycles over the winter will help complete the curing process. This allows the driveway to fully settle into place without further movement or distortion issues.

Once your new asphalt driveway has gone through a winter, have a professional assess if it’s ready for sealcoating in the spring. An expert from Armada Sealcoating can check factors like hardness, texture, and porosity before determining if the asphalt is cured enough to start protecting with a high-quality sealant.

How do you seal an asphalt driveway?

Sealing an asphalt driveway is a multi-step process that helps protect the surface from damage. Here are the key steps to properly seal a driveway:

Step 1: Clean the Surface

Use a stiff broom or leaf blower to remove debris like leaves, dirt and small stones from the driveway. Ensure the entire surface is clear so the sealant can adhere properly.

Step 2: Repair Cracks and Holes

Examine the driveway and fill any cracks or holes with asphalt filler using a trowel or putty knife. This provides a smooth surface for the sealcoat.

Step 3: Apply Concrete Primer

Before sealing, use a concrete primer which helps the sealant bond effectively to the surface. Apply it with a paint roller per the manufacturer’s instructions.

Step 4: Mix and Apply Sealcoat

Pour the sealcoat into a bucket or wheelbarrow per the instructions. Use a paintbrush to cut-in along edges and a rubber squeegee to apply the sealant across the rest of the driveway. Apply 2-3 thin coats for best results.

Step 5: Let the Sealcoat Dry

It takes 12-24 hours for each coat to dry properly depending on weather. Avoid walking or driving on the surface until completely dry.

Sealing an asphalt driveway takes some work, but protects the surface from sun damage, prevents cracking and fading, and gives it a fresh, clean look. With proper prep and using quality sealcoat, the results can last several years.

The Ultimate Guide to Asphalt Maintenance

How Long an Asphalt Driveway Should Last: 25 to 30 Years

When properly installed and maintained, an asphalt driveway can last 25 to 30 years. However, several factors influence lifespan:

Climate: Driveways in extremely cold climates may only last 10-15 years without proper sealing/maintenance. Hot climates also lead to faster deterioration.
Usage: High-traffic driveways degrade faster from constant wear and tear. Commercial sites have shorter lifespans than residential.
Drainage: Poor drainage causes premature cracking, potholes, and other damage. Effective grading is key.
Maintenance: Lack of periodic sealing, crack repairs, etc. drastically shortens lifespan. Proactive care is essential.

With ideal conditions and timely maintenance, 30+ year lifespans are achievable for asphalt driveways. Our armada sealcoating experts recommend sealing every 2-3 years.

How Much Does Asphalt Driveway Repair Cost in 2024?

In 2024, asphalt driveway repairs range from:

Crack sealing – $0.75-1.50 per linear foot
Pothole repair – $45-75 per pothole
Section replacement – $8-12 per square foot

Factors impacting cost:

Severity of damage – Greater deterioration equals higher costs
Permit requirements – Commercial sites may need permits
Accessibility – Tight spaces make repairs more complex
Materials used – Custom mixes, coloring etc. increase price

Our Driveway Paving Contractors provide free estimates, protecting against cost surprises.

Options for Sealcoating & Asphalt Paving

When seeking asphalt driveway costs estimates for installation or repairs, reputable local companies include:

GUARDIAN SEALCOAT & PAVING – Known for quality workmanship and products
A & M Asphalt Paving – Family-owned for over 35 years
Michigan All Pro Asphalt – Specializes in both residential and commercial

These experts offer services like:

Installation of new driveways
Maintenance sealing
Crack repairs
Pothole patching
Resurfacing and more

They use industry-leading techniques and materials to maximize durability.

How Much Does It Cost to Seal an Asphalt Driveway? [2024 Data]

In 2024, the average cost to seal an asphalt driveway is $0.20-0.30 per square foot. On a two-car driveway (~400 sq ft), expect to pay $80-120. Additional factors impacting cost:

Surface area – Larger driveways have higher total costs
Coating used – Premium or specialized sealants cost more
Preparation work – Fixing extensive damage adds expenses
Contractor reputation – Well-reviewed companies charge higher rates

Sealing every 2-3 years protects against deterioration, saving on repairs. Our armada sealcoating experts provide free quotes.

Recycled Asphalt Driveways: Everything You Need to Know

Using recycled asphalt for driveways offers benefits like:

Cost savings – Recycled material is cheaper than new asphalt
Sustainability – Reduces landfill waste and environmental impact
Performance – Comparable durability to standard asphalt

Considerations include:

Limited customization – Color/texture options are restricted
Periodic testing – Ensure material quality standards are met
Proper installation – Needs excellent drainage and compaction

When sourced and installed correctly, recycled asphalt is a smart, eco-friendly choice for driveways. Consult our Driveway Repair Companies to learn more.

Choosing a Reputable Driveway Paving Contractor

As trusted experts in driveway paving and sealcoating, Armada recommends homeowners thoroughly research potential contractors to find the right partner for your project. Here are some tips on what to look for when choosing a company:

Research Industry Experience & Proper Licensing

It’s important to work with an established company that has extensive expertise in asphalt installation and maintenance. Ask about:

Years in business
Staff training and certifications
Licensing for your state and locality

This helps ensure they have the proper qualifications to complete the job correctly.

Compare Multiple Bids to Inform Decision Making

Get quotes from 3-5 driveway paving contractors before deciding. Comparing bids allows you to:

Gauge fair market prices in your area
Assess the value of each company’s offering
Make an informed decision on which is best for your budget

Reputable companies will provide detailed bids clearly outlining their full scope of work.

Verify Positive Reviews and Local References

Online reviews can be misleading. Instead, ask contractors for 5-10 local customer references and contact them about their experiences.

You want to validate:

Quality of final product
Timeliness of project completion
Responsiveness to issues
Professionalism on site

Speaking to past customers gives the best sense of what to expect.

Understand the Sealcoating Company’s Process

Ask specific questions about how the company prepares and seals driveways, including:

Cleaning methods
Crack filling techniques
Sealcoat products used
Curing process and timelines
How they ensure longevity

Their process and materials will impact the end result.

Consider Warranties and Ongoing Maintenance Plans

See if the company offers:

Multi-year warranties on materials and labor
Maintenance plans for repairing cracks/fading over time

This provides assurance they stand behind their workmanship.

Doing diligent research helps find the right asphalt contractor for your driveway resurfacing or sealcoating project. Look for proven expertise, fair pricing, strong references, quality processes – and you’ll feel confident in achieving a successful long-lasting result.

How to Install a New Asphalt Driveway

Preparing the Ground for a New Driveway

When installing a new asphalt driveway, proper site preparation is crucial for ensuring durability and longevity. The ground must be graded to allow for proper drainage – a slope of 1 inch for every 4 feet is often recommended. Any organic material or unstable soil should be removed and replaced with a compactible base. A common base layer is 4-6 inches of compacted aggregate like crushed stone or gravel. Proper soil compaction creates a stable foundation that prevents shifting or cracking in the asphalt surface. Homeowners can handle basic grading and soil removal but should consult a professional paving contractor like Michigan All Pro Asphalt Paving LLC for more complex projects or recommendations on base materials.

Selecting Quality Materials for Your Asphalt Driveway

The quality of the asphalt mix directly impacts the lifespan of the finished driveway. Only work with paving companies using fresh, high-grade asphalt from reputable suppliers. The mix should consist of stone aggregate bound together with asphalt cement. Using recycled asphalt or low-quality mixes to cut costs often results in early deterioration and more frequent repairs. Professionals also consider the climate and traffic volume to determine the appropriate asphalt grade and thickness. In general, a 2-3 inch layer is suitable for most residential driveways. Homeowners can request details on the specific materials being used to ensure they meet industry standards.

The Paving Process: What Homeowners Should Know

Installing an asphalt driveway requires specialized equipment and experience. Here’s what homeowners can expect:

The base layer is inspected and prepared. Any final grading takes place before the surface is tack coated.
Trucks deliver fresh asphalt mix onsite, where it is transferred to the paving machine.
The paving machine spreads and partially compacts the hot asphalt in smooth, overlapping passes.
Workers manually compact edges and tricky areas the paver can’t reach.
For surface texture, the asphalt may be imprinted before a final compaction when it has cooled sufficiently.
After it cools completely, a sealcoat can be applied to protect the asphalt surface.

It’s vital homeowners hire competent contractors like Michigan All Pro Asphalt Paving LLC to ensure proper materials, techniques, and consistent quality.

How Much Does an Asphalt Driveway Cost in 2024?

In 2024, homeowners can expect to pay $3-6 per square foot on average to install a new asphalt driveway. Factors like the site’s accessibility, drainage considerations, permits required, and asphalt thickness needed impact overall costs. Complex projects with extensive drainage work or customized features are more expensive. Using recycled asphalt can provide some savings but reduces longevity. Homeowners should get quotes from multiple paving contractors to compare pricing. Reputable companies like Michigan All Pro Asphalt Paving LLC provide detailed estimates accounting for all specifications and materials of each unique project.

Aftercare: Ensuring Longevity of Your New Driveway

Allowing the new asphalt driveway to cure fully before use is critical – wait at least 24-48 hours before walking on it and 7 days before driving. Avoid quick temperature changes in the first year which can cause cracks. Reseal the driveway every 2-3 years, clean up oil spills quickly, and fill cracks as soon as they appear to prevent further damage. Following professional aftercare tips will ensure homeowners maximize their asphalt driveway’s lifespan.

Protecting Your Investment with Ongoing Driveway Care

Regular maintenance and care is crucial for protecting your asphalt driveway investment. The specialists at Armada Sealcoating recommend following these best practices:

Routinely Clear Snow Buildup and Debris

Allowing snow and debris to accumulate can lead to premature breakdown of your driveway’s asphalt. The added weight and moisture seepage causes damage over time. Armada advises clearing snow buildup after each snowfall using a plastic shovel to avoid scratching the surface. Also regularly sweep up leaves, sticks, and other debris.

Quickly Address Any New Cracks or Damage

New cracks in your driveway should be promptly filled to prevent further deterioration. Use an asphalt filler product to patch cracks and dents as soon as they appear. Left unaddressed, damage can spread and lead to more extensive repairs. Armada’s experts can assess cracks and provide professional repairs if the issues become serious.

Manage Drainage to Prevent Water Damage

Proper drainage is key to prevent water pooling and damage. The Armada team recommends grading driveways to slope away from buildings and installing drainage pipes to redirect rainwater runoff. Low areas that collect water should be filled. Also avoid excessive landscape watering near the driveway.

Protect Against Gas & Oil Drips Degrading Asphalt

Oil leaks from vehicles can stain and degrade asphalt over time. Use drip pans, absorbent pads, or sealants in parking areas to prevent oil seepage. Clean any oil stains quickly with degreaser and avoid further dripping onto affected areas. Properly fix any identified leaks in your vehicles.

Follow Best Practices for Snow Removal & Salt Use

When shoveling snow, use a plastic shovel and lift along the driveway’s edge to prevent gouging the asphalt. Limit salt usage which can damage and corrode the pavement over time – only apply enough to provide short-term traction. Use sand or kitty litter for added traction instead. After winter, thoroughly rinse the driveway to remove residual salt and prevent further deterioration.

Conclusion: Partnering with Armada for Ongoing Driveway Care

Regular sealcoating and crack filling are crucial for protecting the integrity of your asphalt driveway. Like any valuable asset, consistent maintenance is key to preserving function, appearance, and return on investment.

Over time, exposure to harsh weather, UV rays, chemicals, and vehicle traffic takes a cumulative toll on driveway surfaces. Small cracks left untreated can expand into major faults. Fading color and texture can detract from curb appeal. Without proactive care, expensive repairs or full replacement may eventually become necessary.

This is where working with a professional company like Armada Sealcoating pays dividends in the long run. Their experts bring years of experience assessing driveway conditions, choosing the right maintenance solutions, and skillfully applying treatments. Customers can rely on their quality workmanship and use of advanced industry products to keep their driveways looking pristine year after year.

Armada’s flexible service plans, reasonable rates, and lifetime warranty provide assurance and value. Partnering with them for periodic maintenance makes driveway upkeep a smooth, stress-free process for homeowners. Their expertise preserves the integrity and longevity of your asphalt investment.

In summary, by establishing an ongoing relationship and allowing Armada’s specialists to develop a tailored care plan, homeowners can effectively protect the functionality and aesthetics of their driveway for maximum returns over decades to come. Their proactive solutions and quality workmanship are the keys to ensuring lasting curb appeal and asset value.