Get matched with top driveway sealcoating pros in Mitchell, IN

A properly applied asphalt driveway sealer, or sealcoat, should last between one and five years. The industry standard is to reseal every two to three years for optimal protection. If you live in a climate with extreme weather, such as heavy rainfall or freezing temperatures, you may need to reseal your driveway more frequently, around every two years. Signs that your driveway needs a new coat of sealant include the appearance of small cracks or uneven drying after rain.

While blacktop is a type of asphalt, the terms should not be used interchangeably, as not all asphalt qualifies as blacktop. The primary differences are in their composition, production process, and ideal applications. Blacktop contains more stone than other types of asphalt and is heated to a higher temperature during production—300°F or more—while hot-mix asphalt is heated to between 275°F and 300°F. The ratio of bitumen (a tar-like crude oil) is a key differentiator, though sources vary: some state blacktop has less bitumen, making it less durable, while others claim it has a higher ratio. Due to these differences, asphalt is generally more durable and better for high-traffic areas like highways and streets, while blacktop is more suitable for playgrounds and residential driveways. For a driveway project, it is best to consult a professional to determine the most appropriate material.

Driveway sealcoating costs around $500 on average, or between $1.25 and $1.50 per square foot for materials and labor. Most homeowners pay between $250 and $800 for this service. Your project price will depend mostly on the size of your driveway, the type of sealant, how much pressure washing or treatment is required before sealing, and the number of coats of sealant applied to your driveway. Most sealants come in 5-gallon or 55-gallon units, with up to 500 square feet of coverage per 4 gallons.

Maintaining a driveway depends on its material. For concrete and asphalt, it's best to clean the surface thoroughly twice a year with a stiff broom and a pressure washer to remove accumulated dirt and debris. Sealing the driveway is crucial to protect it from water damage and freeze-thaw cycles. Before applying a sealant, pressure wash the surface to remove any loose sealant, dirt, or stains, as sealing over them will trap them. Any cracks or expansion joints should be filled with a flexible polyurethane caulk or asphalt sealer. In colder climates, use sand instead of salt for de-icing. Sand helps melt snow and ice without accelerating the freeze-thaw process, which can cause cracks.