Best driveway sealcoating pros near Gettysburg, SD

Asphalt driveways last anywhere from 15 to 30 years, but if you don’t stay on top of repairs, you may find yourself spending extra to replace your driveway before its typical lifespan. Stay on top of repairing cracks and potholes by routinely inspecting your driveway once or twice a year. It’s a good idea to pressure wash your asphalt driveway at least once a year to keep it clean. Apply a sealer every one to five years, based on your climate.

If you don’t want to seal the entire driveway using a squeegee, you can use a roller instead. Rolling the driveway sealer also provides an even, sufficient coating, although it might require more skills to control the speed and pressure. We don’t recommend spraying the driveway sealer because it would cause more splash, hence wasting more material. If anything, you may spray the sealant and go over the surface again with a squeegee to ensure proper coating.

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.

If your asphalt driveway shows cracks, potholes, or standing water, it’s likely time for a repair. Cracks, big or small, let water seep in, weakening the base and causing further damage. Potholes are a sign of this weakening process in action while standing water suggests your driveway has poor drainage, which can cause even more issues. You may also see warping or buckling—a sign of a compromised base layer—or sinking pavement. Spotting these signs early on can help you save yourself a bigger repair bill in the future.