Your asphalt driveway really takes a beating, especially here in Goshen with our wild winters and those hot, sticky summers. All that sun, rain, snow, and the constant freeze-thaw cycle really does a number on it, doesn't it? Sealcoating is your best bet for keeping your driveway looking sharp and making it last longer. But should you roll up your sleeves and do it yourself, or is this one of those jobs best left to the pros?
Before You Start: Prep is Everything
Whether you're tackling it yourself or bringing in someone else, the prep work is probably the most important step. You can't just glob sealcoat over a dirty, cracked driveway and expect it to hold up. That's just throwing good money and time down the drain.
First off, you've got to clean it. And I mean *really* clean it. Get rid of all the dirt, leaves, and any other junk. A good power wash helps a ton, but make absolutely sure the driveway is bone dry before you put anything on it. If you've got oil spots or grease, you'll need to scrub those out with a stiff brush and some degreaser. Why? Sealcoat won't stick to oil; it'll just peel right off, and nobody wants that.
Next, you'll need to fix any cracks or potholes. Small cracks, say up to about a half-inch wide, you can usually fill yourself with a decent crack filler from the hardware store. Just make sure the crack is clean and dry before you apply it. For bigger cracks, or any potholes, you're looking at more involved repairs. That's usually where the DIY approach starts to get a little tricky, wouldn't you say?
The Sealcoating Process: DIY vs. Pro
Alright, so you've prepped the driveway. Now for the actual sealcoating. If you're going the DIY route, you'll need to buy the sealcoat product, brushes, squeegees, and maybe some edging tape to protect your garage door and concrete walkways. Read the instructions on the product carefully. Seriously, every brand is a little different, and things like temperature and humidity really affect how it goes on and cures.
You'll typically pour a section of sealcoat and then spread it evenly with a squeegee or brush. The goal is a thin, even coat. Don't go too thick, or it'll take forever to dry and might even crack. Most products suggest two thin coats, with plenty of drying time in between. This is where patience comes in handy. You just can't rush it.
Now, when should you call a pro like us at Absolute Asphalt Inc? Well, if your driveway is big, has a lot of tricky curves, or if it's in really rough shape with tons of cracks or potholes, you're probably better off with a professional. We've got the commercial-grade equipment, the right materials, and the experience to get it done efficiently and effectively. Plus, we use higher-quality, commercial-grade sealants that you just can't pick up at your local hardware store. These products often last longer and give you better protection.
Another thing to think about is time. Sealcoating takes a full day or two of work, including all that prep and drying time. If you don't have that kind of time to dedicate, or if you'd rather spend your weekend doing something else (who wouldn't?), then a pro is definitely the way to go.
After the Job: Curing and Care
Once the sealcoat is down, whether you did it or we did, the most important thing is to let it cure right. This means staying off it! Most products need at least 24-48 hours before you can walk on it, and 48-72 hours, sometimes even longer, before you can drive on it. If you drive on it too soon, you'll leave tire marks and could damage the fresh coating. It's especially important to respect those cure times here in Goshen, especially if we get a sudden cool snap or a lot of humidity, which can really slow things down.
After it's fully cured, your driveway will look fantastic – a deep, rich black. To keep it that way, try to keep it clean. Sweep off leaves and dirt regularly. Clean up oil spills as soon as they happen. And remember, sealcoating isn't a one-and-done deal. You'll want to reseal your driveway every 2-3 years to keep it protected and looking its best.
So, can you sealcoat your own driveway? Absolutely, if it's in decent shape and you're willing to put in the time and effort for proper prep and application. But for a truly professional, long-lasting finish, especially on older or larger driveways, bringing in the experts is usually the smart move. We see a lot of driveways in Goshen, from the older homes near Main Street to the newer developments out by College Avenue, and we know exactly what it takes to make them last.