Driveways are a huge investment for any homeowner. Not only do they add curb appeal, but they also provide a necessary space for parking cars and other vehicles. Driveways typically take a lot of wear and tear as well, which is why it’s important to seal them as soon as they’re installed. Sealing the driveway protects it from weathering, staining, and fading. It also makes it easier to clean, and can even make it resistant to oil spills and other kinds of accidents.
But one of the questions that you’re probably asking yourself right now is “how long after sealing driveway can I drive on it?”
If you want to know the answer, we invite you to read further as we’re going to discuss this topic in today’s post.
How The Sealing Process Is Done
If you’re planning to seal your driveway, it’s important to do so in a way that will protect it from the elements and prolong its lifespan. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to seal a driveway as done by qualified contractors:
- Clean The Driveway – This is perhaps the most important step, as any dirt or debris on the surface can prevent the sealant from bonding properly. Use a broom or pressure washer to remove all the dirt and debris, then rinse with water.
- Apply Primer – A primer will help the sealant adhere better to the surface of the driveway and will also help protect it from oil and gas stains. Apply it using a brush or roller, and allow it to dry completely.
- Apply Sealant – Once the primer has dried, apply the sealant in a thin coat using a brush or roller. Be sure to cover every area of the driveway, and allow it to dry completely before driving on it.
- Repeat As Necessary – Depending on the type of sealant used and the condition of your driveway, you may need to repeat this process every one to three years.
When you seal a driveway, the surface will be smooth and black. The new sealant will protect the asphalt from weathering and wear. If you have a paved driveway, it is important to seal it every few years to maintain its appearance and functionality. Depending on the weather and the condition of your driveway, you may need to seal it more or less often.
How Long Can You Use Your Driveway After Sealing
The answer may surprise you – you can actually drive on your newly sealed driveway as soon as the sealant is dry! This usually takes anywhere from 2-24 hours, depending on the weather and temperature. So if you’re sealant is dry to the touch, you’re good to go. Just be sure to take it easy at first, and avoid any sharp turns or hard braking. After all, you want your new investment to last as long as possible!
Driving on a driveway that has just had a sealant applied is not recommended. That’s because the sealant needs time to cure, and driving on it before it is cured can damage the sealant. In most cases, it will take at least 24 hours (as mentioned above) for the sealant to cure sufficiently enough so that driving on it will not damage it. If possible, it is best to wait at least 48 hours before driving on a newly sealed driveway.
Will There Be Different Curing Times Depending On The Type Of Sealant Used
When it comes to driveway sealants, there are two main types: asphalt-based and acrylic. Asphalt-based sealants are generally considered more durable and tend to last longer than acrylic sealants. However, acrylic sealants are less likely to cause discoloration or staining on your driveway.
Both types of sealants will need time to cure before you can drive on them, but the curing time will differ depending on the type of sealant used. Asphalt-based sealants usually take about 24 hours to cure, while acrylic sealants may only take a few hours.
It is important to wait the appropriate amount of time before driving on your driveway after sealing it, in order to ensure that the sealant is fully cured and will not be damaged.
How Much Are You Going To Spend To Have Your Driveway Sealed By A Professional Contractor
It is important to have your driveway sealed by a professional contractor if you want it to last for a long time. The cost of having your driveway sealed will depend on the size of your driveway, but it will typically range from $0.50 to $2.00 per square foot.
To ensure quality results with your driveway sealing project, ask Buckhead Paving in Atlanta, GA today and get a free quote.