Asphalt is a tough material, but Chicago’s cold winters and warm summers can take their toll! Over time, exposure to the elements can lead to cracking, raveling and other unsightly issues. Fortunately, you can avoid those problems and prolong the life of your pavement with asphalt sealcoating in Chicago.
What is Asphalt Sealcoating in Chicago?
Asphalt sealcoating is an often-overlooked maintenance service that involves spreading a thin layer of asphalt emulsion over every square inch of your pavement. There are many different types of emulsions and asphalt sealing products available. However, each one serves a single core purpose: Protection.
Once the sealer cures, it forms a protective barrier over your pavement. It’s like a shield that safeguards asphalt from sun, rain and other destructive elements.
Why is Sealcoating Necessary?
Working with an asphalt sealcoating contractor regularly is key to having long-lasting pavement. Asphalt isn’t immune to damage. Over time, constant exposure to the sun and traffic wear can lead to oxidation. Binders start to break down, and pavement can become brittle.
Once that occurs, cracks will form. While minor cracks aren’t a major cause for concern from a safety or aesthetic standpoint, they can spell big trouble over the long term. Water can seep into those cracks, damaging your pavement’s foundation. Even worse, water can freeze in winter, turning those small cracks into large voids.
Sealcoating prevents those issues from happening. It blocks harmful UV rays, keeps water out and protects against chemicals, oils and more.
What’s the Ideal Maintenance Schedule for Sealcoating in Chicago?
Chicago asphalt sealcoating is a service you should get throughout the life of your pavement. If you’re vigilant about this and other maintenance services, that could be over three decades!
Asphalt sealcoating contractors typically recommend sealcoating your pavement every three to five years. However, that’s just a baseline. All properties are different, experiencing different levels of wear and exposure.
Some properties may benefit from more frequent asphalt sealing to optimize protection and aesthetics.
What are the Signs That My Pavement Needs Sealcoating?
There are several signs it’s time to call an asphalt sealcoating contractor. One of the first is discoloration. As asphalt sealing wears down and the binders in your pavement oxidize, the material transforms from a deep black to a dull gray. That’s your first indicator that your pavement is becoming brittle.
Eventually, you’ll start to see small cracks forming. If you fail to get asphalt sealcoating, those small forms of damage will worsen.
If you’re unsure whether you need Chicago asphalt sealcoating, contact contractors. An asphalt sealcoating company can send someone out to inspect your pavement and determine the best course of action for long-term care.
Why Should I Hire an Asphalt Sealcoating Company?
Asphalt sealcoating isn’t something you should attempt to DIY. While many asphalt sealing products are readily available, you need the expertise of a seasoned asphalt sealcoating company to get the job done right.
The process involves significant surface preparation and ample curing time. If not done correctly, you may end up with more issues than you bargained for!
Let Blackhawk Paving & Construction take care of all your sealcoating needs. We’re approaching our fifth decade of business and have a long-held reputation for delivering high-quality results with the honest and reliable service you deserve. We’re well-versed in the complexities of sealcoating and use premium products for lasting protection.
At Blackhawk, our goal is to help you maintain your pavement long-term while minimizing disruptions to your business. In addition to sealcoating, we offer new paving, repairs, milling, concrete flatwork, parking lot striping and many other services to keep your property in great shape.
Get your free quote today by calling Blackhawk Paving & Construction at (708) 578-07434. If you prefer, you can also submit your information using our online contact form or send us an email at info@blackhawkpaving.com.
