DIY Sealcoat
When it comes to maintaining your asphalt driveway, using the right materials is crucial. While it might be tempting to purchase sealcoat and crack fillers from big box retail stores, these consumer-grade products are significantly inferior to the commercial-grade materials used by Morcom Paving. Here’s why you should consider investing in professional-grade sealcoat and rubber crack fill materials for your driveway:
​
Retail Sealcoat vs. Commercial Grade Sealcoat:
​
Quality and Composition: Retail sealcoat products are designed for ease of use and low cost, often at the expense of quality. These products typically contain a higher percentage of water and less solid content, which means they provide a thinner, less durable protective layer on your asphalt surface. In contrast, commercial-grade sealcoat used by professionals is formulated with a higher concentration of solids, including advanced polymers and additives that enhance durability, adhesion, and flexibility.
​
Durability and Longevity: The thin layer provided by retail sealcoat products is more prone to wear and tear, often showing signs of deterioration within a year. This means you’ll need to reapply the sealcoat more frequently, which can end up costing more in the long run. Commercial-grade sealcoat, however, creates a thicker, more resilient barrier that can withstand harsh weather conditions, UV rays, and chemical spills for up to three years before needing reapplication. This not only saves you time and money but also ensures your driveway remains in top condition.
Further, Morcom Paving most uses a sealcoat product manufactured in the Pacific NW for the Pacific NW. Retail products are just not designed to withstand the amount of precipitation we get here in Oregon.
​
Application and Finish: Professional sealcoating involves more than just applying the product. The process includes thorough surface preparation, such as cleaning and repairing cracks. This ensures optimal adhesion and a smooth even finish. Special equipment like high-powered blowers and industrial sweepers are used to clean the surface meticulously, removing all debris and ensuring the asphalt is ready for sealcoating. Additionally, we use specialized sealcoating machines that apply an even layer, resulting in a smooth and uniform finish. DIY sealcoat from retail stores often results in an uneven application with streaks and patches, reducing both the aesthetic appeal and protective qualities of the sealcoat.
Retail Crack Fillers vs. Commercial Grade Rubber Crack Fill Material:
​
Effectiveness and Performance: Retail crack fillers, like their sealcoat counterparts, are formulated for convenience and low cost. These products are often made with lower-quality materials that provide a temporary fix but lack the flexibility and durability needed for long-term performance. Commercial-grade rubber crack fill material, on the other hand, is specifically designed to expand and contract with temperature changes, maintaining a watertight seal that prevents further damage to your asphalt.
​
Durability and Longevity: Consumer-grade crack fillers may harden and become brittle over time, leading to new cracks and water infiltration. This can exacerbate the damage and result in costly repairs down the line. Professional-grade rubber crack fill material remains flexible and resilient, even in extreme weather conditions, ensuring a long-lasting repair that protects your driveway’s structural integrity.
​
Application and Finish: Applying retail crack fillers can be a messy and inconsistent process, often requiring multiple applications to achieve a decent result. Professionals use specialized equipment to heat and apply commercial-grade rubber crack fill material, ensuring a smooth, even seal that penetrates deep into the cracks. This creates a stronger bond and a more effective repair.
​
​
The Professional Advantage:
​
Specialized Equipment: One significant advantage of hiring professionals is access to specialized equipment that ensures a higher quality job. From high-powered cleaning tools to advanced sealcoating and crack-filling machines, professionals have the right tools to get the job done efficiently and effectively.
​
Expertise and Experience: Morcom Paving brings years of experience and expertise to the table. We understand the nuances of different asphalt surfaces and the best practices for maintenance and repair. This means you can trust that the job will be done right the first time, using the highest-quality materials and techniques.
​
Cost-Effectiveness: While it might seem cheaper to use retail products initially, the long-term costs can add up due to more frequent applications and potential damage from inferior materials. Investing in professional-grade products and services ensures your driveway is protected and maintained to the highest standard, ultimately saving you money and hassle in the long run.
We have been sealcoating driveways for 30 years, and we have seen it all. If you have any questions or need expert advice, don’t hesitate to contact us! If you want to learn more about our sealcoating services, check out our sealcoating services page.