Sealcoating is one of the simplest and most affordable ways to protect your asphalt driveway—but how often do you really need to do it? In places like Bucks County and Philadelphia, where the weather can be tough on pavement, timing matters. Let’s break down what sealcoating does, how often to do it, and why it’s worth the effort.
What Sealcoating Actually Does
Sealcoating isn’t just for looks—though it does restore that fresh black finish. More importantly, it acts as a protective barrier against:
- Water and moisture
- UV damage from the sun
- Gas, oil, and other automotive fluids
- Freeze-thaw cycles that cause cracks and potholes
By sealing the surface, you’re extending the life of your driveway and avoiding more costly repairs down the road.
General Rule: Every 2–3 Years
For most residential driveways in Pennsylvania, sealcoating every two to three years is ideal. This helps keep your surface protected without overdoing it. If you wait too long, your asphalt can become brittle and more prone to damage.
Factors That Affect How Often You Should Seal
- Age of the driveway: New asphalt needs to cure for 6–12 months before its first sealcoat.
- Weather exposure: Driveways with full sun exposure or frequent freeze-thaw conditions may need more frequent sealing.
- Traffic levels: The more vehicles your driveway sees, the faster the surface wears down.
- Previous maintenance: If your driveway hasn’t been sealed in years, it might need more than just a topcoat.
Signs It’s Time to Sealcoat Again
- The surface looks faded or gray
- You can see small cracks forming
- Water isn’t beading up on the surface anymore
- The asphalt feels rough or dry to the touch
Sealcoating doesn’t take long, and it can add years to the life of your driveway when done at the right time. If you’re unsure when your surface was last sealed—or if it even needs it—our team can take a look and give you an honest recommendation.
Contact Asphalt Services for sealcoating and other professional asphalt services in Bucks County and Philadelphia. We’ll help you protect your driveway before small issues become big ones.