How Long Does Asphalt Sealcoating Last in North Carolina?
If you’re a property manager, business owner, or home owner in North Carolina, you understand the importance of keeping your asphalt in good shape. A well-maintained parking lot or driveway not only looks great but also lasts longer and saves you money on costly repairs. One of the best ways to protect your asphalt is through sealcoating.
But how long does asphalt sealcoating actually last? The answer depends on a variety of factors, especially here in North Carolina, where the weather can be tough on asphalt surfaces. In this article, we’ll explore the typical lifespan of sealcoating in North Carolina and what factors can impact how long it lasts.
What is Sealcoating and Why is it Important?
Before diving into the lifespan of sealcoating, let’s take a quick look at what it is and why it matters.
Sealcoating is a protective layer applied to the surface of asphalt. It acts as a barrier, protecting your asphalt from harmful elements like UV rays, oil spills, water, and chemicals. By keeping out these damaging agents, sealcoating helps extend the life of your asphalt and keeps it looking fresh.
In North Carolina, where the summers are hot and the winters can bring plenty of rain, sealcoating is especially important. It prevents the asphalt from softening and cracking in the heat and keeps water from seeping into cracks, which could freeze and expand during colder months, leading to more damage.
How Long Does Sealcoating Typically Last?
The lifespan of sealcoating depends on several factors, including the weather, the condition of the asphalt, and the amount of traffic the surface receives. In North Carolina, where we experience both scorching summers and rainy winters, sealcoating typically lasts between 2 to 4 years.
Why the range?
- Heavy traffic areas, such as busy commercial parking lots, will see more wear and tear, causing the sealcoat to wear down faster. In high-traffic areas, you may need to reapply sealcoating every 2 years to maintain optimal protection.
- Lower traffic areas, like residential driveways or less-trafficked sections of a commercial property, might only need resealing every 3 to 4 years.
Pro tip: Keeping up with routine maintenance, like filling cracks and potholes, will help your sealcoating last longer. Damage to the asphalt underneath can weaken the sealcoat, so addressing small problems early is key.
Factors That Affect How Long Sealcoating Lasts in North Carolina
While 2 to 4 years is the general lifespan, several factors can influence how long your sealcoating lasts in North Carolina. Here’s a closer look at the most important ones:
1. North Carolina’s Weather
North Carolina’s climate plays a big role in how long your sealcoating lasts. The combination of hot summers, occasional freezing temperatures in the winter, and rainfall throughout the year can be tough on asphalt.
Hot summers: The intense summer sun in North Carolina can cause asphalt to soften and expand, leading to cracks. UV rays also break down the surface of the asphalt, making it more susceptible to damage. Sealcoating provides a protective layer that shields the asphalt from these harsh UV rays, but over time, the sun can wear down the sealcoat itself.
Cold winters: While North Carolina winters are generally mild, we still experience freezing temperatures and plenty of rain. Water that seeps into small cracks can freeze, expand, and worsen the damage. If your sealcoat is worn out, water can easily penetrate the asphalt, leading to cracks and potholes. Properly applied sealcoating helps prevent this, but over time, it will need to be reapplied to remain effective.
Rainfall: North Carolina gets plenty of rain, particularly in the spring and summer. Water is one of the most damaging elements for asphalt, especially if the sealcoating has started to wear away. Regular resealing ensures that your asphalt is protected from water damage, extending its lifespan.
2. Quality of the Sealcoating Application
Not all sealcoating jobs are created equal. The quality of the sealcoat material, as well as how it’s applied, plays a huge role in how long it will last.
Professional application: It’s always best to hire professionals for sealcoating. They know how to properly clean and prepare the surface, apply the right amount of sealant, and ensure it cures correctly. If the sealcoating is applied too thin or too thick, it won’t last as long as it should.
Number of coats: A single coat of sealant may not be enough for high-traffic areas. Most professionals recommend applying two coats for better protection and longevity, especially for commercial properties.
Quality of materials: Higher-quality sealcoating materials will provide better protection and last longer. At Green Street Blacktop, we use only premium, eco-friendly sealcoating materials to ensure long-lasting protection for your asphalt.
3. Amount of Traffic
The amount of traffic your asphalt experiences plays a significant role in how long the sealcoating lasts.
Heavy traffic: Parking lots, drive-thru lanes, and other commercial areas that see constant vehicle traffic will wear down the sealcoating faster. High-traffic areas typically require resealing every 2 years to keep the asphalt protected.
Light traffic: Residential driveways or low-traffic sections of a commercial property can go longer between sealcoating applications. In these areas, you may only need to reseal every 3 to 4 years.
Tire marks and scuffing: Areas where vehicles turn frequently or park for long periods (such as near entrances or loading docks) tend to wear down faster. These spots may need extra attention when it comes time to reseal.
4. Routine Maintenance
Sealcoating isn’t a one-and-done solution. Regular maintenance is essential for extending the life of your sealcoating and protecting your asphalt.
Crack filling and pothole repair: Sealcoating is great for protecting the surface of your asphalt, but it doesn’t fix existing damage. Any cracks or potholes should be repaired before applying sealcoat. If water gets into cracks, it can erode the asphalt and shorten the lifespan of your sealcoating.
Cleaning: Regularly cleaning your asphalt surface is important for maintaining your sealcoating. Oil spills, chemicals, and debris can break down the sealcoat over time. Sweep away leaves and dirt, and clean up any spills as soon as possible to keep your sealcoating intact.
5. Timing of the Application
Believe it or not, the time of year you apply sealcoating matters.
Best time for sealcoating in North Carolina: The best time to sealcoat your driveway or parking lot is during the warmer months, typically from late spring to early fall. You want to apply sealcoat when the temperature is consistently above 50°F and when rain is not in the forecast for at least 24 hours. This ensures the sealcoat has enough time to dry and cure properly.
Avoid extreme heat: While sealcoating needs warm weather to cure, extreme heat can also cause problems. Sealcoating during the peak of summer can cause the sealant to dry too quickly, leading to a weaker bond. Spring and early fall are usually the best times for sealcoating in North Carolina.
How Can You Extend the Life of Your Sealcoating?
There are several steps you can take to ensure your sealcoating lasts as long as possible:
- Keep your asphalt clean: Regularly sweep your driveway or parking lot to remove dirt, debris, and oil stains that can weaken the sealcoat.
- Address damage quickly: Fill cracks and repair potholes as soon as they appear to prevent water from getting under the surface.
- Reseal every few years: Depending on the level of traffic, plan to reseal your asphalt every 2 to 4 years to maintain its protective barrier.
Why Choose Green Street Blacktop for Your Sealcoating Needs?
At Green Street Blacktop, we understand the unique challenges that North Carolina’s climate presents for asphalt maintenance. As a women-owned business, we are dedicated to providing environmentally friendly solutions at every turn while delivering excellent customer service.
We offer a full range of asphalt services, including sealcoating, infrared asphalt patching, crack filling, and line striping. Our team of professionals is here to help you protect your asphalt and keep it looking great for years to come.
Ready to Extend the Life of Your Asphalt?
Don’t wait until your asphalt shows signs of wear and tear. Reach out to us today for a free quote or even just a friendly opinion. We’re happy to assess your property and help you choose the best sealcoating and asphalt maintenance plan for your needs.
Give us a call or visit our website to schedule your consultation now. Let’s keep your parking lot or driveway looking great and performing well for years to come.
