Top 3 Sealcoating Products on the Market: Pros and Cons

Introduction

Sealcoating is an essential part of maintaining your asphalt surfaces. It protects the asphalt from harmful UV rays, water damage, and other environmental factors. With so many sealcoating products on the market, it can be challenging to determine which one is the best for your needs. In this blog post, we will discuss the top 3 sealcoating products on the market and their pros and cons.

1. Coal Tar Emulsion Sealers

Pros

• Long-lasting protection: Coal tar emulsion sealers are known for their durability and can last up to 5 years before needing to be reapplied.
• Resistance to chemicals: These sealers are highly resistant to gasoline, oil, and other chemicals, making them ideal for areas with heavy traffic and potential spills.
• Easy application: Coal tar emulsion sealers can be applied with a brush, squeegee, or spray system, making it versatile for various projects.

Cons

• Environmental concerns: Coal tar emulsion sealers contain polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), which are considered harmful to the environment and potentially carcinogenic. Some states have even banned the use of coal tar sealers due to these concerns.
• Odor: Coal tar emulsion sealers have a strong, unpleasant odor that can be bothersome during application and for a short period after.

2. Asphalt Emulsion Sealers

Pros

• Eco-friendly: Asphalt emulsion sealers are considered more environmentally friendly than coal tar emulsion sealers, as they do not contain PAHs.
• Lower odor: These sealers have a less pungent odor compared to coal tar emulsion sealers, making them more pleasant to work with.
• Easy application: Like coal tar emulsion sealers, asphalt emulsion sealers can be applied with a brush, squeegee, or spray system.

Cons

• Shorter lifespan: Asphalt emulsion sealers typically need to be reapplied every 2-3 years, making them less durable than coal tar emulsion sealers.
• Less resistant to chemicals: These sealers are not as resistant to gasoline, oil, and other chemicals, which could be a concern in high-traffic areas.

3. Acrylic Sealers

Pros

• Quick drying: Acrylic sealers dry quickly, usually within a few hours, allowing for faster project completion.
• UV resistance: These sealers offer excellent UV resistance, protecting your asphalt from sun damage and fading.
• Available in various colors: Acrylic sealers can be tinted to match the surrounding area or provide a decorative finish.

Cons

• Higher cost: Acrylic sealers are generally more expensive than other sealcoating options, which could be a drawback for budget-conscious consumers.
• Less durability: While acrylic sealers offer excellent UV resistance, they may not be as durable as coal tar emulsion or asphalt emulsion sealers in terms of overall protection.

Conclusion

When choosing a sealcoating product for your asphalt surfaces, it is essential to consider factors such as durability, resistance to chemicals, and environmental impact. Coal tar emulsion sealers offer long-lasting protection and chemical resistance but have environmental and odor concerns. Asphalt emulsion sealers are more eco-friendly and have a lower odor but may require more frequent reapplication. Acrylic sealers provide quick drying and UV resistance but can be more expensive and less durable. Ultimately, the best sealcoating product for your needs will depend on your specific project requirements and priorities.