How to Seal a Driveway

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 like New Jersey 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 24-48 hours after application. Avoid sealing in direct hot sun (over 90°F) as the sealer may dry too quickly and not bond properly.

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, can identify underlying problems, and provide warranties on their work.

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. In humid NJ summers, add an extra 24 hours to be safe.

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.

DIY driveway sealing costs $150-225 for a typical 20x50 foot driveway (1,000 sq ft) including sealer and tools. Professional sealing costs $300-500 but includes commercial-grade materials, proper preparation, and typically a 2-year warranty. In New Jersey, most pros charge $0.15-0.25 per square foot.

No. Never seal a driveway if rain is expected within 24-48 hours. Water prevents proper adhesion and can wash away fresh sealer. Check the weather forecast carefully and reschedule if there's any chance of rain within the next two days.

Wait at least 48-72 hours before driving on a freshly sealed driveway. Walking is safe after 24 hours. In humid summer weather, add an extra 24 hours. Cool fall temperatures or overnight dew may also extend cure time.

Yes, absolutely. Sealing extends asphalt driveway life by 5-10 years. A $300-500 seal job every 2-3 years prevents $3,000-8,000 in repaving costs. In New Jersey's harsh freeze-thaw climate, sealing is especially valuable for preventing water infiltration that causes cracking and potholes.