Are you looking to upgrade your driveway or preserve and protect your commercial parking lot? Asphalt paving and sealcoating are two popular applications used in tandem with one another to keep your asphalt in top condition. While these two services are often compared to one another when it comes to choosing the best option for upkeep, they actually serve different purposes. Before making an investment in either of these options, it’s important to understand the difference between each, and the role that each plays in a smooth and unblemished asphalt surface.
What Is Asphalt Paving?
Asphalt paving is the process of laying or re-laying down hot or cold asphalt mixtures on top of an existing surface, such as concrete, gravel, or in th
e case of asphalt overlays – on top of existing asphalt. It can serve multiple functions, ranging from creating entirely new surfaces, such as driveways or
parking lots, or to patch up damaged areas like cracks and potholes in existing surfaces. It is a long-term investment with the potential to extend the lifespan of your surface for years
to come, as long as it’s done by a professional contractor who has the necessary equipment and experience to ensure a smooth and even finish.
What Is Sealcoating?
Similarly to asphalt paving, sealcoating is intended to maintain an already existing pavement surface, but the difference is in how this maintenance is done. Rather than laying down a new layer of asphalt to patch up damaged areas, a sealcoat applies a protective coating of either coal tar or asphalt emulsion over the entirety of the existing pavement.
What this does is protect the asphalt from coming into contact with elements like water, snow, oil, and other environmental contaminants that cause wear and tear over time. It can also prevent fading, discoloration, and the cracking of asphalt due to UV exposure. As with asphalt paving – sealcoating should be done by a professional to ensure the job is done properly.
What’s An Easy Way to Remember The Difference?
Think of asphalt paving as a service that either creates new surfaces or corrects serious damage on existing ones (restorative), while sealcoating is the protective coating that preserves the surface, so damage isn’t incurred in the first place (preventative). If you want an easy analogy to go by, asphalt paving is like the metal structure of your car, while the sealcoat is the paint. Without the paint, your car would rust, corrode, and break as the integrity of the structure would be shortened – with paint, it lasts much longer.
When Should I Purchase Asphalt Paving vs. Sealcoating Services?
If you have an asphalt driveway or parking lot that is near the end of its life (15-20 years), you should consider using asphalt paving to either repair it or resurface it. Asphalt paving can be beneficial in correcting serious issues like sun damage, pooling water, deep cracks, or frayed edges. Now, if you have a newer asphalt surface (5-10 years), then sealcoating should be considered to upkeep and maintain it.
What Is The Difference In Cost?
The cost for each service is dependent on the size of your parking lot or driveway. What can be said here is that asphalt paving is generally more expensive than sealcoating, but it can go a long way in extending the life of the old or damaged asphalt. Sealcoating, on the other hand, is a fraction of the cost of asphalt paving, and it can make your driveway or parking lot look like new again. But, you will need to budget for it, as regular sealcoating treatments are needed to maintain the asphalt.
Who Can Help Me With Asphalt Paving and Sealcoating?
If you’re in the Orlando, FL area and are looking for asphalt paving or sealcoating experts to help, don’t hesitate to contact DCPLM. For over 10 years, DCPLM has been a trusted leader in asphalt paving and sealcoating services (among others!), and are dedicated to providing all clients with the best results possible. Don’t wait until your driveway or parking lot is beyond repair – give us a call today at (407) 618-9646, to learn how we can help you!
