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Do-it-yourself projects can be fun and rewarding, especially when they're done right. But when it comes to driveway sealing, even the most experienced DIYer can make mistakes that could lead to costly repairs, even worse, have to have the entire driveway paved again. Whether you're a first-time sealcoater or an experienced pro, it pays to know what common pitfalls to avoid!
In this article, we'll look at some of the most common DIY mistakes in sealcoating driveways. We'll discuss how to identify and fix these errors before major damage is done. We'll also cover tips for ensuring a successful project so that your driveway looks great for years to come.
Sealing a driveway is the process of applying a layer of sealant over the top of the existing asphalt to protect it from damage and weathering. This can help keep your driveway looking great for years to come.
It’s essential to inspect the driveway before beginning any work. Look for signs of deterioration, like cracking or crumbling edges, that might indicate more serious damage below the surface. Ensure there are no existing problems, such as drainage issues or areas where water collects during heavy rains. If there are existing issues, they should be addressed before attempting to seal coat the driveway.
Preparing a driveway for sealcoating is an essential step in the process. Unfortunately, it is one of the most frequently overlooked and potentially disastrous steps. Far too often, eager homeowners rush into the project without proper assessment and preparation.
Poor Surface Preparation
It’s important to clean and remove any debris from the surface before sealing so that it adheres properly. You can use a garden hose to clean off your driveway, but you will want to wait at least 48 hours before applying the coating. If your driveway is clean, a good sweeping or leaf blower will do the trick. Chemicals spots need to be spot treated also.
Sealcoating will only fill hairline cracks and surface blemishes. A crack that is over 1/8” should be sealed with a crack sealer.
This is one of the most common mistakes made by DIYers. Low-quality sealers are not as durable and will not last as long as higher-quality ones.
Applying a sealer too thick can cause cracking and bubbling of the surface. It is essential to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper application thickness.
The sealer can peel off or become discolored over time if it does not dry completely. Allow plenty of time for drying before driving on your driveway again.
If there is rain in the forecast for the next 24 hours, you must wait. Also, the ideal temperature is between 60-90. Do not seal coat if the overnight temperature is below 55.
Applying coating on a windy means you will end up with a driveway with all kinds of things stuck in the coating.
Removing sealcoating from your garage or concrete sidewalk is a challenging task—mask areas with plastic that you don’t want to get coating on.
Not Cleaning Up Spills
Any spilled sealer should be cleaned immediately with soap and water to avoid staining or discoloration on your driveway or surrounding area.
Nothing is worse than running out of coating in the middle of your driveway. It's easy to underestimate how much sealant or filler you'll need, leading to an incomplete job and a frustrating do-over. To avoid this problem, take some extra time to measure your driveway carefully before you buy anything. Figure out the area in square feet and then use that measurement to determine the quantity of sealant or filler required.
Sealing your driveway is a great way to protect it from the elements and extend its life. Although hiring a driveway sealcoating company is generally better, some DIYers can accomplish the project. Unlike sealcoating a parking lot most driveways are manageable and can be coated in an afternoon.
