Seal Coating & Crackfill
DiPalantino Contractors, Inc. • 4095 Ferry Road, Doylestown, PA 18902 • Phone Number: 215-348-4414 • Fax: 215-348-4748 • Email Address: info@dipalantino.com
The three major elements that deteriorate asphalt are:
Crack Filling
Cracks can result from a number of factors including tree roots, poor drainage, freeze-thaw cycles, oxidation from the sun or excessive weight. Cracks allow moisture to penetrate the pavement. In the winter this moisture can freeze causing a multitude of more serious problems. In the warmer months weeds or grass can take root in the cracks causing extensive damage.
“Alligatoring“ or "spider web" cracking are terms used because the cracks resemble alligator skin or a spider web. This is characterized by numerous cracks close together. If your paving is at this point then sealing won't help. It is recommended to replace with new paving or resurfacing.
Cold Pour Crack Sealer: A pourable asphalt emulsion based premium liquid. Available in one gallon jugs, this material enables a quick, easy application and penetration in cracks up to 1/2" in width. This is a commercial grade product and is the material we use to seal cracks in our standard sealing service.
Hot Pour Crack Sealer: A fast curing, premium quality, hot applied single component crack and joint sealant that will seal larger cracks up to 1 1/2" in width.
- First we remove dirt and vegetation from the cracks using hand tools, & power blowers.
- The crack sealer is heated to approximately 350 degrees in a melting unit, transferred to an applicator, and applied directly to the cracks. The excess material is banded over the crack to form a tight seal.
Sealcoating
Given time, even the best laid asphalt driveways begin to deteriorate. Rain, snow, and ice wear at driveways, causing cracks to form and asphalt to chip away. Cars and trucks also wear at asphalt, causing cracks, depressions, and chemical stains. Sealcoating can help repair these problems and stop or slow them from happening in the first place. Sealcoating locks moisture out, forming a protective barrier around your driveway.
Sealcoating is preventative maintenance that can help double the life of your asphalt driveway or parking lot, while giving your pavement that Jet Black appearance.
- Sun and Oxidation: Sealcoating prevents oxidation and resists ultraviolet rays. Asphalt pavement begins to deteriorate almost as soon as it is placed. As the pavement is exposed to oxygen, the asphalt binder (tar) hardens. This hardening results in a brittle surface that eventually cracks. Cracks in the pavement enable oxygen and rainwater to penetrate the pavement, often into the sub base, weakening it and reducing the pavement's strength. Sealcoating protects the surface and fills surface voids, reducing pavement's exposure to oxygen and water and extending pavement life.
- Water and Ice: Sealcoating resists water & ice. The sealer provides a protective shell that prevents water from penetrating through the asphalt. Water will soften the base causing larger more expensive repairs such as sink holes, depressions and cracks. In colder climates, the water will freeze and expand which will create pot holes and cracks throughout the asphalt. Sealcoating your driveway can save you a significant amount of money by preventing water and ice from penetrating the asphalt surface.
- Oil & Gas Spills: Sealcoating resists oil and gas spills. This is especially important on driveways and parking lots where cars are parked or worked on. Oil and gasoline soften asphalt. A professional-grade coal tar sealer contains additives that enable it to resist any such leaks. By filling surface voids, sealcoating also reduces the depth to which oil or gas can penetrate the pavement.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can animals or barefooted children be harmed by walking through wet asphalt sealer?
Yes, The products we use are waterbased asphalt products that in general will not cause skin irritation. However, anyone with sensitive skin should avoid contact. If you come in contact with the sealer while it is still wet, rinse the skin area immediately with water. For dried particles, try a waterbased citrus cleaner designed for washing skin, as this should remove any excess.
A second non-health issue is tracking wet sealer into the house. Asphalt sealers can stain, even if cleaned up while wet. Anyone who comes in contact with wet sealer should remove their shoes and other clothing that has sealer on it before they come in contact with fabric, wood, paint, tile, or other valuable household surfaces. If the driveway sealer has dried on children’s feet or pet paws it will not track, and it will eventually wear off.
Do I need to patch cracks or holes before sealing?
Yes, large holes and cracks will get worse over time. Sealers are not intended to repair them. David DiPalantino Contractors offers the best asphalt driveway repair products in the industry using an industrial brand of crack fillers and patches. And they are 100% tested and provide the longest lasting protection.
How can I tell when it is safe to walk and drive on?
First, wait the appropriate time, then use a gloved hand or cotton shop towel to rub/touch the surface. If black appears on the glove, avoid driving on it. Press into the surface and ensure that the sealer is completely dried all the way through, not just on the surface. For cracks, insert a toothpick into the crack. If it comes out black and wet, it has not fully cured. Driving or walking on wet sealer can ruin the finish and cause tracking onto garage floors and other surfaces you contact.
What temperature should it be outside in order to sealcoat?
For best results the sealer should be applied at a of temperature (62° F or hotter)
