All categories
Featured selections
Trade Assurance
Buyer Central
Help Center
Get the app
Become a supplier
(2775 products available)
Asphalt sealers are usually differentiated based on the composition of materials they contain. The main difference is that some sealants are made from petroleum products, some from polymer or more recent innovations using bio-based materials. There are four main types of sealers, which include the following:
Coal tar emulsion sealers
A coal tar sealcoat is still the most popular asphalt sealer in North America. Coal tar is a thick, viscous liquid that is obtained by the destructive distillation of coal and has weathering resistant properties. It is usually diluted with water and clay to make an emulsion used for sealing asphalt pavements. Since it is petroleum-based, this sealer has a negative environmental impact.
Asphalt emulsion sealers
Asphalt sealant is made from refined asphalt, which is the same material used to construct pavements. It is less durable than coal tar sealer, but it is a biodegradable option that has a lower VOC content. Just like coal tar sealant, asphalt sealer is usually diluted with water to form an emulsion.
Coal tar pitch sealers
Coal tar pitch sealers are similar to coal tar emulsion sealers, except that coal tar pitch is used instead of coal tar. Coal tar pitch is a thick, sticky residue that is left over after the distillation of coal tar.
This sealant is used in areas subjected to extreme weathering for better protection against moisture, chemicals, and UV rays. It is, however, only used infrequently.
Bio-based sealers
Bio-based sealers are the most recent innovations in the pavement sealing industry. They contain natural materials such as soybean oils, linseed oils, and plant-based polymers, which act as binders, unlike petroleum products used in other sealers.
This makes them a more sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative without compromising performance. There is limited long-term research on the efficacy of bio-based sealers.
It is essential to understand the features of asphalt driveway sealer so as to ascertain what makes it a suitable investment for different applications.
Road safety
Sealcoating provides the asphalt with a slip-resistant surface that is critical for enhancing vehicle and pedestrian safety. With better traction, the risk of accidents is reduced significantly, especially on high-slop pavements and in adverse weather conditions. Sealers also help prevent oil slicks from creating a dangerous, slippery surface.
Improves appearance
Blacktop sealer restores the original black color of asphalt pavements after weathering, which makes them aesthetically appealing. Sealers can also be obtained in different shades to create unique, beautiful designs and textures that improve a property's overall curb appeal.
Cost-effective
Sealcoating depends on the kind of damage to be repaired, but it is generally less expensive than full-fledged resurfacing or replacing an asphalt surface. Sealers can cost as little as $0.15 all the way to $0.5 per square foot depending on the kind and size of container purchased, while resurfacing costs as much as $1.5 to $3 per square foot and replacement $2 to $4 per square foot before labor or disposal costs are considered.
Longevity
Seal coat provides a protective layer that increases the durability and lifespan of asphalt pavement. Sealants protect the surface from penetrating moisture and further prevent cracking, which means new sealers have to be applied over time. Sealers are known to last an average of 3 to 5 years.
Supports environmental protection
Since sealers protect the asphalt surface from detrimental natural agents, like water, UV rays, and oxygen, they also help protect the ecosystem. Using sealants ensures fewer pollutants wash off pavement into storm drains and eventually into bodies of water.
The application process to use asphalt sealers varies depending on the kind used, but there are general steps that are followed for ideal results. They include the following:
Preparation of the surface
The first step is preparing the asphalt for sealant application. This involves cleaning the asphalt surface using a pressure washer or brush to remove all weeds, dirt, debris, and other contaminants.
Any remaining water is allowed to dry completely, and cracks larger than 0.5 inches are filled with asphalt crack filler or sealant to prevent further damaging the pavement. The crack filler is allowed to cure fully according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
Mixing the sealer
The asphalt sealer is mixed per the manufacturer’s directions. Coal tar and other complex sealers usually have to be mixed for a prolonged period before they are poured into a sealant sprayer or paint roller tray for application.
If the sealer is in a bucket, it's advised to stir the sealer first before applying it. A power mixer can be used for large containers of sealant. Sealers on the market today come with specific mixing and application instructions, and it's crucial to read and implement them.
Application of the sealer
The surface is first coated with a thin sealant layer using a sealant sprayer. A paint roller can also be used to apply the sealer, but a sprayer provides even coverage without leaving noticeable roller streaks. Sealers come with specifications for the thickness of application that should be followed for best outcomes.
Allow sealer to cure
The sealer must fully dry before the surface can be used again. The average cure time is 2 to 6 hours, but it's best to allow the sealer to dry per the manufacturer's guidelines. Additionally, sealants usually have temperature and humidity recommendations that must be adhered to for the best results.
When buying asphalt sealing paint, there are several factors that a wholesaler should consider to ensure that they supply the right products to their customers.
Sealant type
The kind of asphalt sealer required depends on the specific needs of the surface to be treated. For instance, typically used in residential or commercial parking lots, asphalt seal coat is a penetrating seal that works best for rejuvenating aged asphalt and providing resistance against harmful chemicals and oil. A surface sealing seal is used on driveways to protect them after the first year of paving.
Coal tar sealants are usually preferred for their resilience to weathering because they are thicker and have stronger binding properties, while asphalt emulsion sealers are more porous and suited for absorption by older, worn-out asphalt. Bio-based sealers are a growing trend among environmentally conscious customers.
Climate
The asphalt sealant spray is best suited to a cooler northern climate, where they protect the asphalt from UV rays, ozone, and oxidation. In contrast, asphalt sealant is ideal for hotter southern climates because of its better flexibility to resist cracking.
Usage
Parking areas, commercial driveways, and other high-traffic zones require a high-performance seal that can withstand the pressure of vehicle loads and spillages. A high-density sealant that is resistant to moisture and chemicals will work best in these situations. On the other hand, a light-duty sealer that is easy to apply and doesn't require frequent maintenance is needed for residential applications.
Sealer color
Sealers are usually available in either reflective or absorptive shades. Lighter shades are generally more suitable for warm climates to keep the surface cool by reflecting sunlight, while darker shades are better for cooler areas, as they absorb heat to keep the surface pliable.
Sealant container
Sealants are usually available in different containers, like buckets or drums. Sealants that are meant for residential applications usually come in smaller packages, like buckets or drums for bigger projects, then apply sealant all at once using a sprayer or squeegee/roller.
Maintenance
Sealants themselves usually require little maintenance. The manufacturers of sealants have specifications for how frequently resealing should be done, usually between 1 to 3 years, depending on the type of sealant used and environmental conditions.
However, some products have options for less frequent maintenance, which are also worth considering. Certain products come integrated with special sealant crack filler that extends the lifespan of the product and pavement.
The main purpose of sealers is to extend asphalt pavements' lifespan and durability. Sealers provide a protective layer that prevents water and other contaminants from penetrating the asphalt surface and damaging the underlying material. This keeps the pavement from cracking and spalling.
No, an asphalt sealer should not be used on concrete. Note that while both materials are black and sealing them together resembles a cohesive surface, they are two distinct materials that require different treatment approaches.
Fortunately, there is a concrete sealer available on the market that is specifically formulated to adhere to concrete surfaces. This provides the concrete with a protective layer that extends its lifespan against the detrimental effect of oil and moisture penetration and weathering.
The average cure time for sealcoating is between 2 and 6 hours, but it can take longer under cool, humid, or rainy conditions. Additionally, cure time usually depends on the type of sealer used, temperature, humidity, and airflow. It's crucial to consult the manufacturer's recommendations on cure times.
No, sealant cannot be applied to wet asphalt. Sealers cannot adhere well to damp surfaces. It's important that the asphalt be entirely dry before any sealer is applied, in which case a moisture meter can be used to test the asphalt surface before application.
Yes, sealcoating is worth it because it prolongs asphalt pavements' life and durability by adding a protective barrier. Sealers keep asphalt driveways or parking lots looking new for longer by preventing weathering effects, like cracking and spalling, thus eliminating the need for expensive repairs or complete resurfacing sooner than expected.
