How to Seal a Driveway
Professional step-by-step guide to sealing your asphalt driveway. Learn the techniques we've perfected over 25+ years of protecting New Jersey driveways.
Materials & Tools Needed
Everything you need for a professional-quality seal coating
Sealers
- •Coal tar emulsion sealer (recommended)
- •Asphalt emulsion sealer (eco-friendly)
- •Acrylic sealer (decorative)
- •Calculate: 1 gallon covers 80-100 sq ft
Tools
- •Squeegee or brush applicator
- •Mixing paddle
- •5-gallon buckets
- •Protective gear (gloves, shoes)
- •Driveway cleaner/degreaser
Repair Materials
- •Crack filler (cold or hot pour)
- •Patching compound
- •Wire brush
- •Putty knife
💡 Pro Tip: Calculate Your Sealer Needs
Measure your driveway (length × width). Most sealers cover 80-100 sq ft per gallon. Buy 10% extra for second coat and touch-ups.
Step-by-Step Sealing Process
Follow these steps for professional results
Plan and Prepare
Check weather forecast for 2 dry days with temps above 50°F. Gather materials: sealer, squeegee, brush, crack filler, cleaner.
Clean the Driveway
Remove all debris, power wash thoroughly, treat oil stains with degreaser, trim grass edges. Allow 24 hours to dry completely.
Fill Cracks
Clean out cracks with wire brush, apply crack filler per manufacturer instructions, smooth with putty knife, let cure.
Apply First Coat
Stir sealer thoroughly, pour in manageable sections, spread evenly with squeegee, use brush for edges.
Apply Second Coat
After first coat dries (4-8 hours), apply second coat perpendicular to first for complete coverage.
Cure and Protect
Block driveway access, allow 24-48 hours before walking, 48-72 hours before driving. Check for missed spots.
Common DIY Mistakes to Avoid
Learn from others' errors to ensure success
Sealing Too Soon
Sealer won't bond properly
Wait 6-12 months for new asphalt, ensure surface is completely dry
Applying Too Thick
Sealer won't cure, stays tacky
Apply thin, even coats - you should see asphalt texture through first coat
Ignoring Weather
Rain ruins fresh sealer
Check forecast for 48 hours of dry weather above 50°F
Skipping Crack Repair
Water penetrates, cracks worsen
Always fill cracks before sealing, no matter how small
Using Old Sealer
Poor coverage and adhesion
Use fresh sealer, stir thoroughly, check expiration dates
DIY vs. Professional Sealing
Make an informed decision for your situation
DIY Sealing
Pros:
- • Lower upfront cost ($150-300)
- • Work at your own pace
- • Sense of accomplishment
Cons:
- • Time-consuming (2-3 days)
- • Consumer-grade materials
- • No warranty
- • Risk of mistakes
Best for: Small driveways in good condition, DIY enthusiasts with time
Professional Sealing
Pros:
- • Commercial-grade materials
- • Expert application
- • 2-year warranty
- • Completed in hours
- • Problem identification
Cons:
- • Higher cost ($300-600)
- • Scheduling required
Best for: Large driveways, busy homeowners, those wanting guaranteed results
When to Seal Your Driveway
Timing is crucial for successful sealing
Best Conditions for Sealing
Weather Requirements:
- ✓ Temperature: 50°F - 85°F
- ✓ No rain for 24-48 hours
- ✓ Low humidity preferred
- ✓ Calm winds
Best Months in NJ:
- 🌟 May - June (Ideal)
- 🌟 September - October (Ideal)
- ✓ July - August (Hot but workable)
- ⚠️ April, November (Check weather)
New Driveways
Wait 6-12 months before first seal
Regular Maintenance
Reseal every 2-3 years
Signs It's Time
Fading, small cracks, rough texture
Driveway Sealing FAQs
Expert answers to common sealing questions
Seal your driveway every 2-3 years for optimal protection. New driveways need their first seal after 6-12 months. High-traffic areas or harsh climates may need sealing every 2 years. Look for fading color, small cracks, or rough texture as signs it's time to reseal.
The ideal temperature for sealing a driveway is between 50°F and 85°F with low humidity. Temperatures should stay above 50°F for at least 24 hours after application. Avoid sealing in direct hot sun (over 90°F) as the sealer may dry too quickly.
Yes, you can seal your driveway yourself with proper preparation and tools. However, professional sealing often provides better results because pros use commercial-grade sealers, have proper equipment for even application, and can identify and fix underlying problems.
Driveway sealer typically takes 4-8 hours to dry to touch, 24-48 hours before you can walk on it, and 48-72 hours before driving on it. Humidity, temperature, and sealer type affect drying time. Always err on the side of caution.
Coal tar sealers (oil-based) provide the best protection against water, chemicals, and UV rays, lasting 3-5 years. Water-based asphalt emulsion sealers are more eco-friendly but may need reapplication every 2-3 years. Choose based on your priorities and local regulations.
Don't seal brand new asphalt immediately. Wait 6-12 months for the oils to evaporate and the surface to cure properly. Sealing too soon can trap oils and prevent proper curing, leading to a soft surface that tracks and damages easily.
Ready to Seal Your Driveway?
Whether you DIY or hire a pro, proper sealing protects your investment. We offer professional sealing with commercial-grade materials and expert application.
Professional results • 2-year warranty • Licensed & insured