Driveway Sealing FAQ’s
Frequently Asked Questions about Driveway Sealing
"My driveway has just been paved, how long should I wait to have it sealed?"
New driveway asphalt looks great but fades over time. Seal of Approval highly recommends that driveways be sealed after the first 6 months the new pavement has been laid. This will assure that your driveway has that new look for many years to come. More importantly, your asphalt will be protected from damage due to UV rays and salt. Without the sealing process your driveway will be vulnerable to weather damage.
"I want my driveway sealed. What preparation is needed?"
Seal of Approval will take care of all the necessary preparations before and after we seal your driveway. It would be greatly appreciated if you make sure that the driveway is cleared of any vehicles, bikes, trailers, etc. If you want to hose off the driveway the night before feel free to do so. Please keep in mind that it is essential for the driveway to be relatively dry before sealing.
"The driveway looks great! When can I walk/drive on it?"
It is recommended that you wait a minimum of 24 hours (48 hours would be better) before you drive on a freshly sealed driveway. If necessary, it is ok to walk on the driveway 4-6 hours after.
"This weather is unpredictable. What if it rains?"
Sealing your driveway with a forecast for rain is not an issue, as long as the driveway is dry at the time of application. The sealant we use is tar based and derived from liquid asphalt. As we all know, oil and water do not mix. If it happens to rain after we have sealed there will be no issues with the curing or longevity of the product. It is actually beneficial to hose (cold water) your driveway the next morning to speed up the curing process if it is a sunny day.
"How often should I seal my driveway?"
It is recommended that your driveway be sealed annually. This will help to extend the life of your driveway, as well as give it that “new” look every spring. While not adhering to an annual schedule will not negatively affect your sealant’s lifespan, it is best to not wait longer than 2 years.
"What should I do if I have oil spots on my driveway?"
Oil spots on a driveway not only look bad but also soften up and eat away at your asphalt. Fragile asphalt can cause cracks and potholes which lead to vehicle damage and costly repairs. Seal of Approval uses a commercial grade oil spot primer that will neutralize all stains prior to sealing your driveway.