Driveway Sealing: How Often, Why, and Best Products
Sealing protects against water damage, UV degradation, oil stains, and extends driveway life by 30-50%. Learn schedules, sealer types, and application for every material.
Why Seal Your Driveway?
Sealing protects against UV damage, water infiltration, oxidation, and stains. Asphalt sealed every 1-3 years lasts 50% longer. Concrete sealed every 2-5 years lasts 30% longer. Pavers: every 3-5 years optional.
Regular sealing is one of the highest-ROI maintenance investments. Cost is far less than premature replacement.
How Often to Seal
Concrete: Mild 4-5 yrs, Moderate 3-4 yrs, Severe 2-3 yrs, High traffic 2 yrs. Asphalt: Wait 6-12 months on new. Mild 2-3 yrs, Moderate 1-2 yrs, Severe annually. Pavers: Initial after 3-6 months, then every 3-5 yrs.
Types of Sealers
Acrylic: Easy application, 1-3 yr lifespan, best for decorative/budget. Penetrating (silane/siloxane): 5-10 yrs, breathable, best for plain concrete. Coal tar: Asphalt, deep black, some areas banned. Asphalt emulsion: Eco-friendly, water-based. Epoxy/Polyurethane: Commercial, 5-10 yrs, high performance.
How to Seal
Clean thoroughly, repair cracks, allow 24-48 hrs dry. Apply with spray, squeegee, or roller. Touch dry 4-8 hrs, foot traffic 24 hrs, vehicles 24-48 hrs. Avoid when below 50°F or above 90°F, or rain within 24 hrs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Asphalt: Every 1-3 years depending on climate. Concrete: Every 2-5 years. Pavers: Every 3-5 years (optional).
Asphalt: Asphalt emulsion or refined coal tar. Concrete: Penetrating silane/siloxane for protection, acrylic for appearance. Pavers: Breathable acrylic.
Yes. DIY possible with proper preparation. Asphalt more DIY-friendly. Ensure surface is clean, dry, and repaired first.
Wait 24-48 hours before vehicles. Check product instructions. Full cure ~72 hours.
Below 50°F or above 90°F, rain expected within 24 hrs, damp/dirty surface, asphalt less than 6 months old, major repairs needed first.
Color fading, water no longer beads on surface, increased staining, small aggregate visible, exceeded recommended interval.
$0.50-1.50 per square foot. Quality results, proper prep, warranty often included.
Yes. Fill cracks with appropriate filler, patch potholes, allow repairs to cure before sealing. Sealing over unfilled cracks traps moisture.