Author: Eddie Taylor

How Sealcoating Can Enhance the Curb Appeal of Your Parking Lot

Eddie Taylor

Asphalt is comprised of rock and stone held together with a binder created by distillation from certain crude oils. Over time, UV rays, water and chemicals degrade this binder, causing the asphalt to discolor and become brittle.

Sealcoating

Rochester NY Sealcoating re-establishes this protective layer, saving the surface from damage and ultimately extending its lifespan. This saves property owners money in the long run.

Asphalt pavement is constantly exposed to the elements, from bright sunlight that bakes oil out of the surface to cold winter snowstorms and thaw-freeze cycles that can cause cracking. Without regular maintenance, these factors can take a toll on the structure and integrity of the pavement, eventually leading to premature deterioration that necessitates costly repairs. A properly installed seal coat protects the pavement from these forces, extending its lifespan and enhancing its appearance.

The sealcoating process begins with thoroughly cleaning the entire asphalt surface to remove dirt, mud and oil spots. Linear cracks are blown out with air compressors and filled with a hot rubberized asphalt crack filler. The edges of the asphalt are then trimmed and edged with a strip of black rubber to ensure an attractive finished look. Next, the surface is broomed with power brooms to further remove dirt and mud from the asphalt. Any oil and stains will be treated with a primer to help the sealcoat adhere. The tack coat is then applied to the surface, which acts like a glue to bind the new sealcoat to the asphalt.

After the tack coat has cured, workers can then apply two thin coats of asphalt sealer to the surface, each approximately one-eighth inch thick. This allows for the greatest amount of protection with the least amount of material used, maximizing your budget and ensuring that all areas are covered. The final step is hand squeegeeing all edges to provide clean, straight lines and to add extra sealer where needed. Traffic is allowed back on the surface as soon as the work is complete.

In addition to protecting your asphalt from the elements, a proper seal coat will also protect the surrounding landscaping and structures from damage. The chemicals in coal tar and asphalt emulsions are dangerous to any vegetation that comes into contact with them, and repeated exposure can even cause health problems for people working outside. Seal coating with a polymer-modified asphalt emulsion significantly reduces these hazards, making it a much safer option for your driveway or parking lot.

Increases Lifespan

Sealcoating is an affordable way to protect your property’s paved surfaces. When properly applied and resealed in regular intervals, it significantly extends the life of asphalt pavement, deferring costly repairs and replacing expenses into the future.

Without sealcoating, asphalt is exposed to the elements including UV rays, rain, and chemical penetration that wear away at the surface, causing it to become brittle and susceptible to cracking. The oil content in asphalt makes it flexible; however, over time, these oils break down and reduce its flexibility. Sealcoating is an effective solution that provides a protective shield that halts the degradation process and keeps the asphalt surface looking newer longer.

A few factors influence the longevity of a sealcoat, including the quality of the product used and the application method. A high-quality sealant, when properly applied by an experienced professional, can last up to 5 years or more. Traffic volume and frequency also impacts the lifespan of a sealcoat; heavily used surfaces may require resealing at more frequent intervals than low-traffic areas.

Proper maintenance practices such as cleaning the pavement regularly, addressing cracks promptly, avoiding heavy loads, and scheduling regular resealing will increase the lifespan of the product. In addition, ensuring that proper drainage is practiced will help the pavement maintain its moisture levels. Lastly, using additives in the sealant mix can also improve its performance and lifespan. These additives serve a variety of purposes including drying the sealcoat faster, altering the sand suspension, strengthening the cured film, increasing water repellency, and enhancing color.

The lifespan of a sealcoat is further increased by scheduling resealing before visual indicators of wear and tear appear on the surface. These indicators are easy to spot and often include fading, cracks, or loss of smoothness. Regular inspections and maintenance will allow you to catch these signs before they become serious problems that require costly repairs.

Taking the steps to safeguard your investment in commercial lots and driveways with regular sealcoating is an economical, long-term solution that will prevent costly repairs and replacement expenses over the years. Contact us today to learn more about our expert sealcoating services and maintenance programs that can optimize the longevity of your asphalt.

Enhances Appearance

Whether you operate a business or own a residential property, your parking lot plays a key role in how people perceive your entire building or estate. A well-maintained, attractive asphalt surface not only increases curb appeal, but it shows you care about your property and take pride in your work.

Seal coating fills in hairline cracks and minor pits to keep water, chemicals, heat, and oil from penetrating the surface of the pavement and damaging it over time. It also enhances the appearance of your paved surface by bringing out its natural, rich black color and minimizing oil drips and spots.

In addition to protecting the surface from weathering and damage, a sealcoat helps prevent the pavement from oxidation. This happens when the petroleum binder in asphalt starts to break down over time due to sun exposure and moisture. The process slows down once a sealcoat is applied, as it blocks the oil from reaching the base material and causing it to deteriorate.

Before sealcoating can begin, the paved area must be power washed and completely dry to ensure that no oils are left behind that would cause the finish to peel or flake. Additionally, the cracks should be filled with an asphalt crack filler before sealing the area.

The type of sealant used for the job is a crucial factor in determining how long the application lasts. Choosing a high-quality, refined coal tar emulsion will produce the best results in terms of longevity. While some have expressed concern that refined coal tar products pose health risks, generations of family-owned sealcoat companies have experienced no significant issues related to working with this substance.

The bottom line is that a sealcoat protects the asphalt from environmental damage and extends its lifespan. It’s a cost-effective and practical way to minimize the need for major repairs and maintain a beautiful, clean appearance for your paved surface. If you’re interested in having your Harrisburg or York property’s paved surfaces professionally sealed, contact us for a free estimate and quote. We look forward to serving you! -Paterson Paving & Sealcoating.

Reduces Maintenance

A fresh coat of sealant on a parking lot or asphalt surface can improve the curb appeal of any commercial, industrial or residential property. It creates a positive first impression for customers, tenants and residents. The unified look also sends a message that the owner cares about the property and takes pride in maintaining it.

Considering the cost of repair and replacement of damaged asphalt surfaces, sealcoating is a very economical maintenance option. Unlike the costly alternative of complete removal and resurfacing, sealcoating repairs cracks and fills minor damage before they become larger problems that require more extensive repair.

Pavement damage increases the risk of accidents and injuries to pedestrians and vehicles. Uneven and cracked surfaces are difficult to decipher for drivers and increase the likelihood of vehicle damage. Sealcoating helps to prevent these occurrences and reduce the potential of expensive lawsuits from accidents on your property.

Most sealer is made up of a liquid asphalt binder, such as refined coal tar, along with aggregate (usually silica sand or Black Beauty boiler slag) and additives. The binder binds the aggregate to prevent oxidation and promote longevity. The additives – such as anti-oxidation agents, UV inhibitors and water repellents – enhance the performance of the pavement by providing additional protection from the elements.

By filling in hairline cracks, which are an early sign of asphalt aging, sealcoating prevents moisture from penetrating the pavement and causing further damage. The sealer also dries quickly, often within 24 hours. The drying process is accelerated by warm temperatures and sunlight. Once it dries, traffic can move freely over the treated surface.

When applied by a professional, a high-quality sealant should last for two to three years. To ensure that the coating will last, it is important to select a reputable contractor and to schedule the work at an appropriate time. In order for the sealant to bond effectively with the asphalt, the climate conditions must be just right – it can’t be too hot or cold, and it can’t rain before or after application. Before applying the sealer, workers should power wash the area to remove any dirt and chemicals. Then they should sweep the surface to remove loose gravel and debris. During the application process, workers should close off the area to vehicular traffic using cones and barricades and provide safe areas for pedestrians with warning tape.

The Benefits of Landscaping

Eddie Taylor

Landscaping involves planting trees, shrubs, flowers and grass to create a visually appealing outdoor environment. It can also provide practical benefits such as shading, privacy, and soil improvement.

Landscaping

Several studies have shown that spending time in nature reduces stress and anxiety. It can also improve your physical health and mental well-being.

Trees provide shade, beauty, and privacy to outdoor spaces. They also help conserve water, control erosion, and improve air quality.

The planting location is as important as the type of tree you select. When choosing a site, consider the mature size of the tree as well as other factors such as soil type and sun/shade requirements. Ensure that the tree will have enough room to grow to its intended height and not be too close to buildings, sidewalks, or other trees. Check local zoning laws for guidelines.

When digging the hole, make sure it is not too deep and not deeper than the root ball (Image 2). Also, try to avoid stepping on or compacting the soil in and around the roots. This can damage the delicate roots.

After the tree is planted, water it thoroughly. Slowly pour water over the entire soil area and around the root ball until it is soaked. Be sure to check that the tree is centered and standing straight, and that the main branches are facing in the direction you prefer.

Plant a Shrub

Shrubs are low-to-medium-sized perennial woody plants that differ from herbaceous or deciduous perennial plants. They have multiple thick stems above ground, and are often cultivated in gardens for their enriching foliage and flowers.

In nature, shrubs are found in diverse types of landscapes such as forest, grassland and scrub. They are also used in landscaping as hedging plants or as foundation plantings for homes. They provide natural habitats for small creatures and enhance the green coverage of the planet.

When planting shrubs, it is important to consider their conditions and care requirements. Some plants require full sun, while others can thrive in partial shade. It is also necessary to choose the right time of year to plant them.

To help your shrubs get established, dig a hole that is twice as wide and just as deep as the container. Once you’ve planted your shrub, make sure that the best side of it faces the direction from which it will most commonly be viewed. Then gently “rough up” the roots by moving and twisting them a little.

Plant a Vegetable Garden

There’s nothing quite like the taste of garden-fresh vegetables, and it doesn’t have to be complicated to grow your own. The key is to find a spot that gets full sun and can easily be accessed by water. Watering is essential for vegetable gardens because many veggies, especially tomatoes, cucumbers, squash and beans, are very thirsty. Make sure there aren’t too many trees, shrubs or other plants nearby that can block the garden for any part of the day as these can compete for sunlight and nutrients with your veggie crops.

Before digging in, sketch out the garden area on graph paper to help avoid any surprises. This will also prevent you from stepping on your freshly planted seeds or roots which can compact and damage them. Then prepare the soil by amending as per the recommendations on the seed packet or plant tag. Make sure the soil is rich and healthy by feeling it (it should be easy to dig and drain well). Water new seeds or transplants daily until established and water mature veggies frequently to keep the soil moist, but not muddy.

Plant a Flower Bed

A well-planned flower bed adds color to the landscape while supporting biodiversity. It also helps to soak up excess rainfall around the property, preventing puddles and erosion. In addition, many bees and butterflies rely on healthy flowers to reproduce.

Begin by identifying the location and layout of the bed you want to create. You can have one flower bed, or multiple, and they can be any shape. Common types include rectangular beds that border the home, long gardens lining front walkways, and loose, oval shapes along the property’s perimeter.

Once the flower bed has been outlined, use marking paint or baking flour to clearly mark its boundaries. Then, eliminate any grass or weeds that are growing inside the outlined area. A broad-spectrum herbicide such as glyphosate is suitable for this purpose.

Next, trench the area to a depth of 6 inches. Then, spread and till a 4-inch layer of light potting soil on top of the underlying native dirt. You can even mix in other amendments to create a lighter, more fertile mix such as vermiculite, cottonseed meal, and fish emulsion.

Plant a Perennial Garden

Perennial plants provide blooms year after year, adding color and texture to the garden. They’re easy to grow, but they require some maintenance, such as periodic watering and deadheading.

Follow the old garden adage “right plant, right place.” Match each perennial’s light and soil preferences to where you want it to live in your landscape. Some flowers like coneflower and yarrow thrive in bright sun from morning until night, while others such as black cohosh and bleeding heart do best in shade. And some perennials love dry, fast-draining soil, while others thrive in soil that stays moist.

Group your perennials according to their environmental needs, and make sure to irrigate accordingly. For example, plant drought-tolerant perennials such as yarrow and black-eyed Susan together in a perennial shade garden, while moisture-loving perennials like astilbe should be located near a pond or stream. Also consider including flowering shrubs in your perennial garden, as these often flower throughout the season and add a focal point to the landscape. Plant azaleas and rhododendrons in spring, rose of Sharon in summer and chrysanthemums through fall.

Plant a Shrub Garden

Shrubs add structure to the landscape while providing color, bloom, and texture that perennials and annuals can’t. They are perfect for filling in gaps and adding color to “shoulder seasons” like spring and fall, as well as creating privacy and hedging. Shrubs also attract wildlife with their colorful berries, foliage and bark.

When planting shrubs, it is important to pay close attention to size and spacing. Always dig a hole that is two to three times the width of the root ball and make sure you leave enough room for the plant to grow. Also, be sure to check the tag on the shrub you are planting for specific cultural requirements such as sun and soil moisture.

For example, if you are planting a flowering shrub you should look for the early-blooming varieties such as Camellia japonica, lilacs and forsythia. You can add even more color with the late-blooming yarrow, weigela and panicle hydrangeas, or accentuate the fall colors of your yard with heucherella, smoke bush and ninebark. Yarrow is also a good choice for pollinator gardens.

Plant a Vegetable Garden

From the first tender shoots of asparagus to the tangy bite of homegrown tomatoes, there is nothing more rewarding than growing your own vegetables. To have the best chance of success, however, it’s important to plan your vegetable garden layout well in advance and prepare the soil correctly.

Most vegetables need full sun (at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight a day) and need a location that is not shaded by large shrubs or trees during part of the day. Choose a spot with good drainage to prevent waterlogged soils. Ideally, the soil should be rich in organic matter, with a mixture of clay, sand and silt (also known as loam) that holds and drains moisture well.

Water is a major factor in growing vegetables, so locate your vegetable garden near an easy-to-reach water source (you don’t want to spend all day dragging a hose or hauling buckets around the yard). If planting new seeds or transplants, water them daily until established; more mature plants need frequent, shallow irrigation (depending on rainfall and temperature). To control weeds and keep grasses from encroaching into the vegetable garden, maintain a narrow strip of tilled ground around the garden.

Plant a Flower Bed

Flower beds are not only decorative, but they can also help soak up excess rainwater, preventing water pooling around your home and minimizing erosion in the landscape. Adding flower beds can be a fun way to express your creativity and add color to your landscape.

Before planting, make sure the soil is even and workable, adding some light potting mix or compost to enhance the texture of the bed soil. It is recommended to add a slow-release flower fertilizer at this time as well for season long feeding.

If you are working in a bed that is covered in grass, use a broad-spectrum herbicide like Roundup to kill the existing turf and allow the grass to decompose. It’s important to kill all of the grass in an area when creating a new flower bed, as perennial weeds may emerge from underneath the soil as it decomposes.

Consider a few different design options for your flower beds, such as planting them in a circle or lining them up along the front walkway of your house or installing drip irrigation systems that direct water directly to the roots of the flowers and plants instead of watering the entire bed. This will save you both time and money!