A driveway is more than just a place to park, as it’s an important part of your home’s curb appeal and a big investment worth protecting. Over time, sun, rain, snow, and daily use can wear down asphalt surfaces, leading to cracks, fading, and damage. Sealcoating is one of the best ways to protect and preserve your driveway. As such, it’s vital to know how often you should do so to keep your driveway in great shape and extend its life.
The Ideal Sealcoating Schedule
For most homeowners in Western New York, we recommend sealcoating your driveway every 2–3 years. This timing helps prevent water, oil, and UV rays from breaking down the asphalt while maintaining that deep, rich black finish that boosts curb appeal and leaves favorable first impressions. Harsh winters, freeze-thaw cycles, and road salt can accelerate surface wear, so some driveways may benefit from sealing closer to the 2-year mark, especially if you notice small cracks starting to appear.
If your driveway is brand new, it’s important to wait at least 6–12 months before the first sealcoat. This gives the asphalt time to cure properly so the sealant can bond effectively..
Signs It’s Time to Sealcoat Again
If you’re unsure when your driveway’s last sealcoating took place, here are some warning signs that it needs one:
- Fading color from deep black to gray
- Small cracks or surface wear
- Water soaking in instead of beading on the surface
- Oil or chemical stains that are starting to penetrate
If you see any of these signs, it’s better to act sooner rather than later, as it could prevent costly repairs from occurring.
Our Proven Process for Lasting Results
When we seal a driveway, we go beyond a quick spray. We start by cleaning the surface thoroughly, filling any cracks with hot rubberized filler, and treating oil stains. Then, we hand-apply a high-quality Masterseal asphalt emulsion with horse-hair brooms. This brush-on method creates a thicker, more uniform coat that lasts longer and looks cleaner than spray applications.
To learn more about our sealcoating services in Amherst and in Western New York, contact Marty’s Seal Coating today at (716) 444-2390 or email martyssealcoating@gmail.com for your free estimate.
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