Protect your Los Angeles asphalt from sun and traffic with our expert sealcoating, preserving its integrity and appearance.
Get Your Free EstimateAsphalt sealcoating is the application of a protective liquid layer to an existing asphalt pavement. This service includes thorough cleaning of the surface, filling minor cracks, and then applying one or two coats of a high-quality, commercial-grade asphalt emulsion or refined coal tar sealer. The goal is to create a barrier against environmental damage, which means your pavement will resist oxidation, water penetration, and the degrading effects of oil and gas spills.
Our approach starts with a detailed assessment of your pavement's condition. We identify areas needing repair, such as small cracks or oil stains, which must be addressed before sealing. We use specialized power blowers and wire brooms to remove all loose debris, dirt, and vegetation. Any oil spots are treated with a primer, and cracks up to 1/2 inch wide are filled with a hot-applied rubberized crack filler, ensuring a uniform and sound surface for the sealer to adhere to.
In Los Angeles, the intense sun and fluctuating temperatures are particularly harsh on asphalt. UV radiation causes the binder in asphalt to oxidize, making the surface brittle and gray, which leads to aggregate loss and cracking. Our sealcoating acts as a sacrificial layer, absorbing this damage instead of your pavement. This protection is crucial for maintaining the structural integrity of your driveway or parking lot against the specific climate challenges of Southern California.
Many property owners ask about the best time to sealcoat. Generally, we recommend sealcoating every 2-3 years, depending on traffic volume and sun exposure. The pavement must be at least six months old before its first sealcoat application to allow for proper curing. We advise scheduling sealcoating during periods of stable, warm weather, typically above 50°F (10°C), to ensure proper drying and adhesion of the sealer, which is essential for its long-term performance.
Asphalt sealcoating is essential in Los Angeles because it directly combats the specific environmental stressors prevalent in our region. The intense, year-round sun exposure here causes rapid oxidation of asphalt binders, leading to premature aging, fading, and aggregate loss. A quality sealcoat creates a robust barrier against these damaging UV rays, preserving the asphalt's flexibility and dark color.
Beyond sun protection, sealcoating prevents water penetration, which is critical during Los Angeles's occasional heavy rains. Water seeping into cracks can freeze and expand in colder periods (though less common here, it still happens in higher elevations or during cold snaps), or simply erode the sub-base, leading to potholes and structural failure. The sealant fills surface voids, making the pavement less permeable and more resistant to moisture damage.
Finally, sealcoating protects against chemical spills like oil, gasoline, and antifreeze, which are common in driveways and parking lots. These substances can dissolve the asphalt binder, creating soft spots and deterioration. The sealcoat provides a protective layer that resists these chemicals, which means spills can be cleaned up without damaging the underlying pavement, extending its service life significantly in the busy Los Angeles environment.
We begin by thoroughly cleaning the asphalt surface using commercial-grade power blowers, wire brooms, and specialized degreasers. This removes all dirt, debris, oil stains, and loose aggregate, ensuring optimal adhesion for the sealer.
All cracks up to 1/2 inch wide are filled with a hot-applied, rubberized crack sealant, which expands and contracts with the pavement. Larger cracks or potholes are patched with hot mix asphalt before sealing, creating a uniform surface.
Using spray applicators or squeegees, we apply two coats of commercial-grade asphalt emulsion or refined coal tar sealer. This method ensures even coverage and proper bonding, creating a durable, protective layer.
The sealcoated area is barricaded and allowed to cure for 24-48 hours, depending on weather conditions. This critical drying time ensures the sealer fully hardens and achieves maximum durability before allowing vehicle traffic.
Pioneer Asphalt Co proudly offers expert asphalt sealcoating services throughout Los Angeles, CA, and its surrounding communities. We understand the specific needs of properties from the coastal areas of Santa Monica to the inland valleys of Pasadena and the bustling neighborhoods of Hollywood.
Our local knowledge means we account for specific microclimates and traffic patterns when planning your project. Whether you're in Glendale, Burbank, or anywhere in the greater Los Angeles metropolitan area, we deliver lasting pavement protection.
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