Frequently Asked Questions
Can sealcoating new asphalt too early cause premature cracking?
Yes, applying sealcoat to new asphalt too early can potentially cause premature cracking. It’s generally recommended to allow new asphalt to cure and weather for at least 6 months to a year before applying a sealcoat. This allows the asphalt to settle and release any excess oils, which can interfere with the adhesion of the sealant. Applying seal coat too soon can trap these oils, leading to potential issues like cracking or peeling.
Are all cracks the same?
No, all cracks are not the same.
Structural Cracks: Larger than ¼” wide. All structural cracks should always be filled along with sealcoating. Large cracks can be filled until they reach approx. 1/2” wide. Then, we recommend saw cutting and replacing the severe crack.
Hairline Cracks: Less than ¼” wide. Cannot be filled due to lack of space within the crack. The sealer will help protect the crack but will not hide it. Hairline cracks will still be visible after sealcoating.
Surface Cracks: Surface cracks are superficial, cosmetic cracks on the driveway surface. They are almost always caused by over sealing the asphalt.
Edge Cracks: Edge cracks are longitudinal cracks located near the edges of the pavement and can be caused by factors such as settling of underlying material, soil drying, and lack of lateral support. Clearing nearby trees and shrubs and improving drainage can help prevent these cracks from occurring or worsening. These cannot be effectively crack filled.
Fatigue/Alligator cracking: Alligator cracks are clusters of cracks in a concentrated area (that may resemble the skin of an alligator). These sections of asphalt have failed and cannot be crack filled effectively. These cracks are load-related and can be caused by a weak base, subgrade, or surface, as well as poor drainage. Sealcoating can only help maintain these areas temporarily. At some point, the area must be cut out and replaced with new asphalt. Alligator cracks will always still be visible after sealcoating.
How long do I need to stay off my driveway after sealcoating?
You will need to keep your cars off your driveway for a full 72 hours after sealcoating. You can walk on it after 24 hours.
How long should I wait after my driveway installation to sealcoat?
You will need to wait a min of 6 months but possibly up to one year. We will ask to see photos of your new driveway before determining if its time to sealcoat. Ideally you want the asphalt to be gray before you seal it to prevent trapping moisture inside.
Can I give the crew a check when they are at my house?
Unfortunately, our crews are not permitted to take payment after sealcoating. You will be given the option to pay online the day after your appointment or you can mail us a check to 34523 N Wilson Rd, Ingleside, IL 60041
Should I be concerned if it rains the day after my sealcoat?
No. Your sealcoat typically only needs a few hours of dry time to form a crust that will prevent rain from washing it away. If there is ever a concern you can always contact us by sending photos so we can look and give you our professional opinion.
Can you send someone out to inspect my driveway?
Due to the large number of customers we have we are unable to send someone out to inspect each driveway either before or after sealcoating. You will be asked to send us photos so we can assess them on a case-by-case basis. If there is an issue that needs to be addressed, we will then at that time forward it to our field supervisor who will address the issue.
Why do I have Brown Spots on my freshly sealed Asphalt?
Occasionally spots or larger areas of brown occur in an otherwise uniformly black application that is newly dried or even several days old. While it is possible that small areas or spots that are brown can be caused by contamination on the pavement surface, the usual culprit is moisture due to water from underneath the asphalt.
Does Express Sealcoating come back to pick up signs and stakes?
We do not come back to pick these items up. You are free to dispose of them.
What happens if there is rain in the forecast?
We avoid making our rain calls until the morning of your appointment as the weather in our area changes frequently. You will get a message from us by 7:00am the morning of your appointment letting you know if we will be out to sealcoat or if we will be cancelling due to weather. If your appointment is cancelled due to weather, we will provide you with a new date within 2 business days.
If my appointment is cancelled due to weather, will I be moved to the next day?
No. Since we service such a large area, we have to break our days into zones. We seal 50-70 driveways a day and people schedule at all different times. We will move you the next open day for your area. Generally, you will not need to wait more than two weeks.
