Your Asphalt & Epoxy Professionals

Much like paint, sealer applied in two coats dries and cures much better than one thick coat application. Remember sealers are water-based coatings, which cure through the process of water release. A thin coat will release water much faster than a thick coat. If applied in one thick coat, sealer will have a tendency to hold water and stay soft for a longer period of time, possibly causing tracking.

As soon as the surface rids of light oils, through oxidation. To ensure it's time, spread some water on the surface. If the water spreads evenly without bleeding, and shows no "rainbows" from surface oils you are ready. This is also called a "water break test." It usually takes 90 days to about 1 year depending on geographical locations.

Peeling problems may be caused by sealer not bonding to oil spots or any other surfaces contaminants like dirt, grease, etc. or oxidized pavements. All of these areas should be thoroughly cleaned before sealed. 

Follow the manufacturers' recommendations. Normally 25-30 gallons per 100 gallons of concentrated sealer are recommended. Higher percentages are usually recommended for mix designs the use additives and extra amounts of sand.

Sand is used for traction, skid resistance and also to provide a uniform texture to the surface. Sealcoating with sand, wears longer and is safer to walk and drive on.

The use of latex additives is very common. There are many latex additives to impart all types of performance advantages. For example:

• Rubberizing additives improve flexibility, durability, toughness, etc.

• Faster drying additives help sealers dry fast.

• Thickening additives build the viscosity oof sealcoating diluted with large amounts of water.