What Are the Downsides of Sealcoating a Driveway
Sealcoat is recurring maintenance, not a one-time job: SealMaster typically recommends it every 3 years. It only protects sound asphalt, since SealMaster says cracks should be filled and repairs made first. It needs a 24-hour window above 50°F with no rain, and the driveway stays closed for 24 hours afterward. Angi notes asphalt needs more ongoing maintenance than concrete.
It recurs
SealMaster typically recommends sealcoating every 3 years; the Colorado Asphalt Pavement Association says every two to five years. Angi's comparison notes that asphalt driveways require more ongoing maintenance than concrete, including resealing.
It only protects sound asphalt
SealMaster says pavement surfaces should be repaired with hot or cold asphalt mix and cracks filled before sealer goes down, and that gas, oil and grease spots need a primer. Sealcoat is a protective layer on top of that work.
Weather and downtime
SealMaster's instructions call for temperatures above 50°F during application and for at least 24 hours after, no rain in the forecast, and 24 hours before cars go back on the driveway.
Keep reading
Sources
- SealMaster, How often should you sealcoat a parking lot or driveway?
- SealMaster, Sealcoating FAQ
- SealMaster, E-Z Stir Pavement Sealer, application instructions
- Colorado Asphalt Pavement Association (via the Asphalt Institute), “Best Practices” for the Use of Asphalt Driveways, Technical Brief
- Angi, Asphalt vs. Concrete Driveway: Pros and Cons
Frequently Asked Questions
SealMaster says it recurs about every 3 years, needs repairs and crack filling first, requires a 24-hour window above 50°F with no rain, and keeps cars off the driveway for 24 hours.
No. SealMaster says cracks should be filled before sealcoat is applied.