Asphalt seal coating is a low-cost way to repair your asphalt driveway and extend its life. With multiple grades and brands available, choosing a suitable sealer isn't always easy. Your paving contractor can help you select the right sealer based on your driveway's condition and the degree of protection needed. 

Check out three different types of sealers you can consider for your asphalt surface.

Asphalt Sealer

Asphalt driveway sealers consist of the same material used on your driveway. This sealer effectively protects your driveway against snow, sleet, and rain. However, asphalt sealers offer reduced protection against the sun's harmful UV rays and vehicle fluids. 

Additionally, this asphalt coating fades quicker than other types of sealers. So, you have to seal your driveway more frequently to keep it in prime condition. 

On the upside, asphalt sealer produces less volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and a less unpleasant smell during installation. This feature makes it a safer option for your health and the environment. Furthermore, asphalt sealant beautifies your driveway with a smoother and darker finish.

Coal Tar Sealer

Coal tar sealers comprise coal tar, polymers, clay, sand, and other additives. This composition makes this sealer pliable and easy to apply. Moreover, coal tar sealers easily resist oil, gasoline, and water. 

Also, your driveway won't fade or discolor due to the harmful UV rays that cause premature driveway deterioration. Compared to asphalt sealer, coal tar sealer offers more long-lasting protection, thanks to the coal and additives that make it up. This sealer is also quite affordable.

Unfortunately, coal tar sealer is not environmentally friendly due to the high emission of volatile organic compounds during the application, with a foul odor to boot.

Acrylic Polymer Sealer

Acrylic polymer sealer is synthetic because it primarily consists of artificial chemical ingredients, with acrylic and polymers as the key ingredients. Like the coal tar sealer, this synthetic sealer offers superior driveway protection against UV rays and automobile fluids.

Although acrylic sealers are on the higher end of the price spectrum, they provide better and longer-lasting protection than asphalt and coal tar sealers. Hence, an acrylic sealer is a go-to sealant for high-traffic places, like shopping mall parking lots. 

Better still, an acrylic polymer sealer is environmentally friendly as it emits fewer VOCs than a coal tar sealer. This sealant also comes in different colors, so you can choose one that complements your home's exterior. 

Are you planning to seal coat your driveway? Consider any of the above sealers. Also, only hire licensed and reputable paving contractors for professional seal coating services.

If you're interested in sealing your asphalt surfaces, contact a residential paving service like Wyoming Asphalt Paving Co near you today.