Benefits of Seal Coating:
Seal coating is designed to protect asphalt pavements from the damaging effects of the environment, including moisture and ultraviolet oxidation.  Protecting pavement with seal coating has basically the same effect as using sun block on your skin or varnish on wood—it slows the destructive effects of our extreme climate changes from season to season.  Seal coating also minimizes raveling (the loss of aggregate) and fills minor voids in the surface.  Other benefits include creating a uniform color and appearance for all paved asphalt surfaces and increasing the visibility of curbing.  Seal coating and re-striping of parking spaces and crosswalks improve traffic flow and enhance public safety.

 
Frequency of Seal Coating:
To reduce long-term maintenance expenses, industry experts recommend that pavement be seal coated every two to five years, depending on traffic and overall condition.  Pavements that exhibit extensive cracking, base failure, or severe surface raveling will not significantly benefit from seal coating.  Also, seal coat tends not to adhere well to areas saturated with oil, so such areas must be treated with an oil spot primer to aid adhesion.  Sealer can be applied by either squeegee or spray methods.  The spray method is recommended for smooth pavement, whereas rough, porous surfaces are better serviced by the squeegee method with its thicker application. Normal curing time is 24 hours for moderate temperature and humidity conditions.