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All Sealcoat is NOT Created Equal! |
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A proper sealcoat job starts with the Right Equipment.
A 55 gallon drum in the back of a junk pickup is
NOT on
the equipment list.
Quality sealcoating begins with a fully agitated tank having
a 5 - 16 horsepower motor. Hand operated tanks simply will not mix
sand in properly to create a desired mixture that produces a tough,
skid-resistant surface.
Other required equipment includes a Blower, String Trimmer,
and several small hand tools.
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Step two is to properly mix the sealcoat.
Most Sealcoaters buy their sealcoat in bulk and prepare the
mixture themselves. A quality mixture consists of bulk sealcoat mixed with 30%
water (NOT 50% or even 100% used by most companies). Added to this mixture is 2
pounds of Silica Sand per gallon of Raw Sealcoat, plus 2-3% Latex Modifier.
Commercial Sealcoat consists of 3 pounds of Silica Sand per gallon of Raw Sealcoat, and a 2-coat application is recommended. |
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| The Science: The Silica Sand makes the Sealcoat
a better filler and results in a more skid resistant surface. The Latex
Modifier makes the sealcoat stick to the surface better and dry to a
tougher, harder finish that permits minimal tracking. |
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Now we are ready to prepare your
driveway or parking lot!
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First we string-trim the grass edges of the pavement for a
straight, neat edge.
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Then all dirt and rocks are brushed and blown off the surface
(this step is essential - NOTHING sticks to dirt).
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And now, the main event - applying sealcoat!
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Cracks should then be filled with a rubberized liquid
crackfiller for flexibility with expansion and contraction.
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Our Sealcoating Specialists then hand-brush apply the
sealcoat. Hand-brush application is your best option because this produces a
thicker layer that fills low spots and lasts longer. Also, spraying is messy and
results in a thinner, less protective layer. Some companies apply with a
squeegee, but this method takes more sealcoat off than it leaves behind. For
Commercial projects two coats are recommended for a surface that lasts.
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Note of Caution:
Be aware that most other companies add more
water than they admit, and usually add little to no sand.
Remember - you get what you pay for!
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