Hardscaping and How To Protect It

As homeowners we invest considerable time and money into improving and maintaining the appearance of our property. Hardscaping adds beauty, and elegance to even the most difficult properties to landscape. Sometimes stone walls, patios and walkways are adjacent to or come in contact with your asphalt driveway. This often poses a threat to your hardscaping in the event that you get your driveway sealed. The concern is usually: "The last thing I want is to see black stuff smeared all over my new stone wall!"

The fact is that very few driveway maintenance professionals will take adequate time to properly prep your driveway before it is sealed. During the estimate, ask them a couple of questions:

1. What material do you use?

The majority of professionals will use a latex-based sealant which tends to be better suited for commercial applications. If they are using a coal-tar based sealant be aware that it contains PAH's and is considered carcinogenic. Oil-based or "Liquid Asphalt" sealants are also used and tend to be least expensive sealing method and will leave your driveway looking shiny for several months. Acrylic exhibits the best properties of any other residential driveway sealant on the market. It's allergy friendly, dries in minutes, does not smell when it dries, does not track and it can be applied 30 days after a driveway is paved. Acrylic should not be used for heavy traffic applications or driveways that have been sealed more than twice by latex-based sealants.

2. How do you apply it?

Application method is one of the most important factors to consider when sealing your driveway.

Squeegee - OK for parking lots. Bad for driveways. Product is applied too thick which leads to a condition call alligatoring. Also takes a long time to dry.
Brush - Similar to squeegee but also leaves irregular patterns and brush marks.
Spray - The absolute best application method for any material...As long as it is done correctly. Be sure to ask if they take the time to mask off all hardscaping to eliminate over-spray.

For answers to any other questions or concerns you may have about protecting your hardscaping and driveway maintenance feel free to drop me a line at: kraig@sealtechsealcoating.com