It’s officially spring in the Pacific Northwest. In the pavement marking industry, this is also known as the beginning of seal coat season. If you’re a business or property owner, now is the time to take a look at sprucing up your property for the season ahead. Seal coating can not only enhance the look of your asphalt, it can help preserve the quality and life expectancy of your pavement.
Our pavement marking experts at Stripe Rite are here to explain how to properly prepare for your next seal coating project this spring.
Why is Seal Coating Important?
A seal coat is a liquid coating mixture added over a paved surface. It helps to protect your parking lot from the elements, UV damage, and chemicals. If asphalt is left unsealed, water can easily penetrate into the base through cracks. Seal coating adds a protective barrier to prevent water damage. This is especially important for property owners in Pacific Northwest as we often experience year round rain.
Seal coating also has the ability to correct any existing pavement problems by delaying any further aging due to weather patterns. When properly applied, it can slow down the oxidation process and fill in small cracks before they develop into a severe and costly issue. It’s important to remember that seal coating is significantly cheaper than repaving your asphalt.
Preparing for Your Next Seal Coating Project
When preparing your pavement for seal coating, be mindful of Washington’s ever changing weather patterns. The weather needs to be dry and warm, where the air and ground temperatures are both 60 degrees or above. If there is high chance of rain in the forecast, we will likely have to reschedule for another day. If you use a sprinkler system, be sure to turn it off on the morning of the project.
Before the project begins, make sure that your customers and employees are aware. A quality seal coat job will need up to 24-48 hours to properly cure. Once the sealant has been applied, you won’t be able to enter your lot until the material has fully cured.
Contact Stripe Rite for a Seal Coat Estimate
Having a seal coating maintenance plan every two to three years is important to extend the life of your pavement. As Washington’s leading pavement experts, Stripe Rite is here to answer any questions or concerns regarding seal coating. We have offices throughout Washington State in Bremerton, Sumner, Spokane, Kennewick and Yakima to support your business. Contact us today to learn more about our pavement marking services and how we can support you.