A little prep now saves you big headaches later
Driveways take more of a beating than most homeowners realize. Whether it’s summer sun or winter frost, your asphalt surface is constantly being tested by weather, weight, and wear. If you’ve noticed your driveway starting to fade, crack, or just look a little tired, sealcoating is one of the smartest, most affordable moves you can make—and timing really matters.
Think of sealcoating like sunscreen for your driveway. It shields the asphalt from UV rays, rain, oil spills, and the freeze-thaw cycle that can quickly turn small cracks into big problems. And just like with sunscreen, it works best when applied before the damage sets in.
According to the National Asphalt Pavement Association, a properly maintained and sealed driveway can last up to 30 years, compared to just 15 years with no maintenance. That’s a big difference when you consider the cost of full replacement versus occasional upkeep.
What sealcoating actually does (and doesn’t do)
Sealcoating doesn’t fix major potholes or structural issues, but it’s fantastic at protecting what you already have. It creates a slick, durable barrier that locks out water and harmful chemicals, while giving your driveway a fresh, dark finish that instantly boosts curb appeal.
Here’s what sealcoating can help with:
- Slowing oxidation: Sun exposure dries out asphalt, causing it to crack and gray. Sealant keeps it flexible and rich in color.
- Preventing water infiltration: Sealcoating keeps moisture out of the tiny pores in asphalt, where it can freeze, expand, and cause cracks.
- Guarding against oil and gas stains: Everyday drips from vehicles can break down pavement over time. Sealant creates a protective layer.
- Improving appearance: A newly sealed driveway looks sleek, uniform, and well cared for—great for property value or resale.
And if you’re wondering when to do it, the sweet spot is spring through early fall. That’s when temperatures are warm enough for the sealant to cure properly but before snow, ice, or salt start piling on damage.
The cost of waiting too long
Once asphalt starts to crack or unravel, sealcoating won’t cut it—you’ll need repairs or even full resurfacing. And that’s when costs jump dramatically. On average, sealcoating costs about $0.20–$0.30 per square foot, while repaving can run $3–$5 per square foot or more. So skipping regular sealcoating doesn’t save you money—it sets you up for a bigger bill later.
Plus, unsealed asphalt can weaken under pressure, which is especially risky for driveways that handle heavy vehicles, trailers, or multiple cars. If you want your pavement to go the distance, sealcoating should be part of your seasonal maintenance checklist—just like gutter cleaning or HVAC tune-ups.
Ready to protect your pavement before the next weather shift? Start by exploring our Sealcoating service to see how we handle the process from start to finish. If you’re building or upgrading, our Driveway Paving and Asphalt Installation services lay the perfect foundation. Already seeing cracks or early damage? Visit our Asphalt Maintenance & Repair page for solutions that restore your surface fast.