Blacktop repaving and sealing is a process that helps preserve blacktop pavement so it lasts longer through tough weather conditions and regular wear and tear. It is also essential for increased safety and can be easily accomplished for your home’s blacktop driveway. Read on to learn more about the benefits of repaving and sealing your own blacktop driveway or other paved surface.
What Exactly Is Blacktop?
Blacktop is a material used for road surfacing and is a subset of asphalt. People use blacktop to pave some types of roads, playgrounds, driveways, basketball courts, or surfaces that are not traveled on as often. With that being said, you would not see blacktop used for busy roads like highways.
Blacktop has a sparkly finish that makes it ideal for neighborhoods because it looks fresh. To bring about this appearance, it is created with a high stone-to-bitumen ratio. In addition to bitumen, it is also made up of gravel, sand, and natural crushed stone.
Just like any kind of pavement, blacktop endures stress from traffic, weather, and aging which can lead to cracks, potholes, and more. Because of this, it’s important to take care of your blacktop pavement so it’ll last longer and prevent costly repairs down the line.
The Importance of Blacktop Repaving and Sealing
Now that we have an understanding of what blacktop is, we can get into details about blacktop repaving and sealing. Any kind of road needs to be repaved if it’s evident that it’s breaking down to a point where it has become difficult to repair. Repaving blacktop, therefore, is the process of completely replacing the top layer of pavement with new blacktop pavement. It involves milling off the top layer and laying a new material down, which is usually performed by a contractor.
Repaving blacktop pavement offers the following benefits:
- Removes any potholes or cracks
- Creates a better appearance
- Increases safety
- Allows for customization with painted parking spaces, or whatever is needed
Blacktop sealing is a separate process that can be performed after repaving your blacktop. It protects the pavement from weathering, aging, and oxidation. This also helps your pavement to last longer so you’ll get your money’s worth for repaving your blacktop.
Overall, blacktop repaving and sealing are two separate but equally important processes when it comes to the maintenance of your blacktop pavement.
Five Simple Steps to Follow When You Need to Sealcoat Your Blacktop Driveway
If you’re looking to sealcoat your own blacktop driveway or surface, there are five simple steps to follow to achieve this.
Clean Your Driveway
Before using any kind of application on your blacktop pavement, you need to check that your driveway is cleared of any debris, weeds, or dirt. We recommended sweeping your driveway first and then hosing it off. You could also take a cleaning solution and scrub the parts of your driveway that are extra dirty. Be sure to check that your driveway is completely dry before moving on to the next steps.
Fill Any Cracks or Holes
Using a crack filler, thoroughly fill the unwanted cracks on your driveway, and let them dry. This will help prevent these cracks from spreading and doing further damage to your driveway or other paved surface, as well as the soon-to-be-applied blacktop.
Prep the Surface
If you’re inclined to do so, you can prime your surface to help with adhesion and to lock down oil stains.
Apply Sealant
Spread the sealer on your blacktop pavement using tools like a sealer brush. Squeegee the excess material with even pressure so you’re able to apply all of the sealant onto the entire surface.
Dry and Cure
Let the sealant dry and cure for at least 24-48 hours. Once finished, the sealant will have a fresh, black finish.
Why UNIQUE Is the Best Choice for You
When it comes to pavement projects like blacktop repaving and sealing, customers need materials from a trustworthy provider. At UNIQUE Paving Materials, we offer only reliable products that will give you the results you want. Check out our long list of products for asphalt repair, concrete repair, and pavement preservation.
Reach Out to Us Today
With our history of innovation and dedication to customer success, you can count on us for solutions for your next pavement project. Contact us today to learn more.
