Sealcoating your asphalt parking lot is an important part of proper maintenance and can help to prevent serious damage in the future. Unfortunately, all asphalt surfaces will break down at different rates. Consequently, you cannot simply rely on a calendar to tell you when it is time to have your parking lot resealed. Thankfully, there are some other easy ways to tell if you are in need of asphalt sealcoating. Continue reading to learn more about three of the signs that will let you know it is time to seal your parking lot.

Sign #1: Widespread Cracking

Localized cracks in your asphalt will often be the result of an impact and can be repaired without the need to sealcoat your parking lot. However, if these cracks are widespread, that is often a result of a failed seal on your asphalt and will require you to have your parking lot sealed as soon as possible. Simply filling in these cracks will not be enough to prevent the damage from recurring. 

Sign #2: Faded Color

Many people simply assume that the fading color of their asphalt is nothing more than a natural part of the aging process. However, an asphalt surface that is properly sealed will be able to retain its dark black color regardless of age. If your parking lot has started looking more gray than black, it is time to call a paving contractor to have your parking lot seal coated. 

Sign #3: Staining

If the seal on your parking lot has worn away, you will often notice dark spots or stains. These stains can be the result of dripping automotive fluids or something as simple as heavy rain which leaves puddles behind on the surface of your parking lot. In this situation, asphalt sealcoating will be required in order to prevent further damage to your asphalt. This is because, without a proper seal, your asphalt will continue to absorb moisture which can result in potholes and cracks. Consequently, it is very important that you understand the stains on your asphalt are truly much more than just a cosmetic issue. 

A Final Thought

A failure to reseal your parking lot when necessary can ultimately lead to the need to pour new asphalt. This will be far more time-consuming and expensive than asphalt sealcoating. Consequently, if you spot any of the signs described above, you will want to act as quickly as possible to contact a paving contractor in your area such as Super Seal, Inc. about having your parking lot sealed.