Sealcoating in Carson, CA

Sealcoating is a thin protective coat of liquid sealer over asphalt. Carson's climate is mild, with cooler summers than most of the Los Angeles Basin, but asphalt still oxidizes in the sun year after year. As the binder dries out, the surface fades from black to gray, loose stones appear and fine cracks open. A sealcoat slows all of that, at a fraction of what resurfacing costs.

Timing

New asphalt should cure for three to six months before its first coat, according to HomeGuide. After that, seal when the surface has faded and started to lose fine aggregate, typically every few years. Sealing too often builds up a thick film that cracks and peels.

Weather

HomeGuide calls for applying sealer between 50 and 95 degrees in dry weather and keeping traffic off for 12 to 72 hours. Carson averages about 3.3 inches of rain in January and none in August, so most of the year works. On gray marine-layer mornings, we wait for the surface to dry before applying.

Preparation

• Sweep and blow the surface clean
• Prime oil spots so sealer bonds
• Trim grass and weeds at the edges
• Fill cracks with crack sealant
• Patch failed areas

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Sealer type

We use asphalt-emulsion sealers. HomeGuide notes many areas have banned coal tar sealers over health and environmental concerns. On lots and slopes, sand is added for traction.

Lots and yards

Lots are sealed in sections so cars can be moved, and restriped after the sealer cures. Truck yards can be sealed too, though heavy turning areas wear the coat faster.

Signs it is time

• The surface has faded from black to gray
• Small stones are loose on the surface
• Hairline cracks are opening
• Water soaks in rather than beading

If you see potholes, alligator cracking or soft spots, sealcoat alone will not help; those areas need repair first.

Lot maintenance cycle

For commercial lots, a simple cycle works: crack sealing every year or two, sealcoat every few years, restriping after each sealcoat, and quick repair of any failure. We can lay out a multi-year plan.