Asphalt surfaces are constantly exposed to harsh conditions, from heavy traffic to extreme weather. However, one of the most overlooked causes of asphalt deterioration is chemical spills. Everyday substances such as oil, gasoline, antifreeze, and deicing chemicals can slowly break down asphalt, weakening the pavement and leading to costly damage. Luckily, asphalt sealcoating provides a powerful layer of protection that helps prevent chemical-related damage while extending the life of your pavement. Andersen Asphalt & Striping would like to take a closer look at how chemical spills affect asphalt and why sealcoating is essential.
How Chemical Spills Damage Asphalt
Asphalt is held together by a binder made from petroleum-based materials. When chemicals come into contact with the surface, they can dissolve or weaken this binder, causing the pavement to lose strength and flexibility.
• Softening of the Asphalt Surface: Oil, gas, and other automotive fluids penetrate the pavement and soften the asphalt binder. This makes the surface more vulnerable to ruts, indentations, and surface deformation.
• Accelerated Oxidation: Certain chemicals speed up oxidation, causing asphalt to dry out and become brittle. Brittle pavement cracks more easily under traffic and temperature changes.
• Cracking and Surface Breakdown: As the binder weakens, cracks form and widen. Over time, small surface issues turn into potholes and large-scale deterioration.
• Staining and Poor Appearance: Chemical spills leave dark stains and discoloration that make pavement look neglected, reducing curb appeal and giving a poor impression of your property.
• Base Layer Damage: Once chemicals and water reach the base layer, the structural foundation of the pavement weakens, leading to sagging, uneven surfaces, and premature failure.
Benefits of Asphalt Sealcoating Against Chemical Damage
Sealcoating creates a protective barrier that shields asphalt from chemical exposure and other harmful elements.
• Chemical Resistance: Sealcoating blocks oil, gasoline, antifreeze, and other automotive fluids from penetrating the surface, preventing binder breakdown.
• Moisture Protection: By sealing surface pores, sealcoating also prevents water intrusion, which often works alongside chemicals to accelerate damage.
• UV Protection: Sealcoating reduces oxidation caused by sunlight, helping asphalt remain flexible and crack-resistant.
• Improved Appearance: A fresh sealcoat restores the rich black color of asphalt, hiding stains and giving your pavement a clean, professional look.
• Extended Pavement Life: Regular sealcoating can double the lifespan of asphalt pavement by slowing deterioration and reducing the need for major repairs.
How Often Should Asphalt Be Sealcoated
First application usually occurs 6 to 12 months after new asphalt installation. Ongoing maintenance should occur about every 2 to 3 years. High-traffic or spill-prone areas may need more frequent service.
Prevention Saves Money
Repairing chemically damaged asphalt is expensive. Sealcoating is a low-cost, proactive solution that protects your pavement and saves money by preventing serious deterioration.
Asphalt Parking Lot & Road Pavement Resurfacing, Replacement & More in Reno, Elko, Henderson, North LV, Paradise, Spring Valley, Sunrise Manor, Las Vegas, NV | State of Nevada
If your driveway or parking lot is exposed to frequent oil and gas spills, sealcoating is essential. Contact Andersen Asphalt & Striping today to schedule professional asphalt sealcoating services and keep your pavement strong, safe, and attractive for years to come.
