Autumn brings cracked skin and asphalt. You heard it right. The dry weather can cause asphalt to crack and seem weary, invoking the need for asphalt repair. But how do you know if the problem needs resolving with a sealer or a crack sealer? And more importantly, what is the difference between the two?

Proline Parking Lot Maintenance, Inc., the Greater Charlotte Area's #1 Pavement Maintenance Company, brings you this informative blog post about the difference between sealers and crack sealers and the best-suited conditions for each.

What is a Sealer?

A sealer is a liquid coating applied to the surface of the asphalt. It seeps into minor cracks and fills them, binding the asphalt together and protecting it from moisture and further damage. Materials for seal coating can be refined coal tar, asphalt emulsion, or acrylic.

When to Apply a Sealer?

• Sealer is usually applied after new asphalt has been laid down to give it an extra layer of protection.
• You can apply the sealer to give your old pavement a fresh, black appearance.
• It is best to wait until the pavement has cured for at least 90 days before applying sealer since new asphalt needs time to harden and settle. Using sealer too early can result in the material being forced out of the cracks by traffic and weather.

Verdict:

You don't have to wait for your asphalt to show the signs of wear and tear. The preventive properties of a seal coat can help your asphalt acquire a fresh look and save it before autumn sets in.

What is a Crack sealer?

Unlike a seal coat having preventive qualities, a crack sealer is used for restoration purposes. Rubber, cement, and asphalt are some of the materials used for asphalt crack sealer. This is applied to the surface of the asphalt when it begins to crack or wear off and later sealed with a sealer or seal coat.

You can use an asphalt crack sealer to level out the asphalt surface. This is often done before applying a seal coat.

There are two types of crack sealers: hot and cold. Hot asphalt crack sealers are applied using a kettle filled with hot tar. Cold crack sealers, on the other hand, do not require heat.

When is Crack Sealer Applied?

• Crack sealers are applied when the asphalt begins to crack and wear and tear begins to show.
• Excessive traffic can cause a gap to appear on the asphalt. These gaps need to be filled to prevent the spread of damage and maintain a smooth surface.
• Once the crack sealer is applied, it will need to cure for at least 24 hours before being driven on. The seal coat can be used after 24-48 hours, depending on the temperature and humidity.

Verdict:

Crack sealers restore the damage in the form of cracks and gaps and help repair asphalt. Depending on your asphalt's age and current state, you can get it repaired with a crack sealer in no time.

To avail of the professional services of repairing or preparing your asphalt in Charlotte, NC, contact Proline Parking Lot Maintenance, Inc. We offer top-of-the-line asphalt crack sealing services while ensuring our clients receive the best value for their money.