Sealcoating vs Slurry Seal
Understanding the differences between these popular asphalt surface treatments
Treatment Overview
Sealcoating
A protective coating applied to asphalt surfaces to prevent damage from water, oils, and UV rays
Slurry Seal
A mixture of asphalt emulsion, aggregate, water, and additives that provides both protective coating and minor surface correction
Sealcoating
Composition
- • Refined coal tar or asphalt emulsion
- • Water
- • Sand/aggregate for traction
- • Additives for durability
Advantages
- Cost-effective ($0.15-0.25/sq ft)
- Quick application and curing
- Excellent UV protection
- Fills minor surface voids
- Rich black appearance
- Can be applied by spray or squeegee
- Ideal for residential driveways
- Minimal traffic disruption
Limitations
- Cosmetic - no structural benefit
- Cannot fix cracks >1/4 inch
- Needs reapplication every 2-3 years
- Weather dependent application
Best For
- ✓ Residential driveways
- ✓ Small parking lots
- ✓ Preventative maintenance
- ✓ Surface protection
- ✓ Aesthetic improvement
Slurry Seal
Composition
- • Asphalt emulsion
- • Graded aggregate (sand/crushed stone)
- • Water
- • Cement or lime
- • Polymer additives
Advantages
- Structural improvement
- Fills ruts and minor depressions
- Longer lasting (5-7 years)
- Better skid resistance
- Seals larger cracks
- Adds new wearing surface
- Good for high-traffic areas
- More durable than sealcoat
Limitations
- Higher cost ($0.30-0.60/sq ft)
- Longer curing time
- Requires specialized equipment
- More traffic disruption
- Not suitable for steep slopes
- Professional application only
Best For
- ✓ Commercial parking lots
- ✓ Municipal roads
- ✓ High-traffic areas
- ✓ Surfaces with minor rutting
- ✓ Long-term preservation
Application Process
Sealcoating Process
Clean surface, fill cracks
Spray or squeegee
1-2 thin coats
24-48 hours
Light traffic in 24 hours
Slurry Seal Process
Extensive cleaning, crack sealing
Specialized paving box
1 thick application
4-6 hours minimum
No traffic for 4-6 hours
Types of Slurry Seal
Type I - Fine
Maximum aggregate size: 1/8 inch
Best for: Low-traffic residential areas, bike paths, and parking lots
Type II - General
Maximum aggregate size: 1/4 inch
Best for: Residential streets, commercial areas, and moderate traffic
Type III - Coarse
Maximum aggregate size: 3/8 inch
Best for: High-traffic areas, highways, and heavy commercial use
Which Treatment Is Right for You?
Choose Sealcoating If:
- ✓You have a residential driveway
- ✓Your asphalt is in good condition
- ✓You want the most cost-effective option
- ✓Quick application is important
- ✓You need UV and weather protection
Choose Slurry Seal If:
- ✓You have a commercial parking lot
- ✓Surface has minor rutting or texture loss
- ✓You need longer-lasting protection
- ✓High traffic area requiring durability
- ✓Budget allows for higher initial cost
Cost Analysis (10,000 sq ft)
Sealcoating
Initial Cost: $1,500 - $2,500
Frequency: Every 2-3 years
10-Year Cost: $5,000 - $8,500
Cost per year: $500 - $850
Slurry Seal
Initial Cost: $3,000 - $6,000
Frequency: Every 5-7 years
10-Year Cost: $6,000 - $12,000
Cost per year: $600 - $1,200
Need Help Choosing the Right Treatment?
Our experts will assess your surface and recommend the most cost-effective solution for your specific needs.