A freshly-paved driveway that hasn't been sealed is prone to cracks, stains, and discoloration. If you will be filling holes in your driveway and applying asphalt soon afterward, purchase some sealcoating supplies and apply the product immediately after the asphalt cures.

Coal-Based

Coal-based sealants are regarded as one of the most durable sealcoating products and will repel water and oil. A coal-based sealant will form a barrier that will protect the sun's rays from penetrating and causing fissures to form in the asphalt. One of the drawbacks of this type of sealant is the offensive odor that it emits during the application process.

Organic compounds that the product is made of are responsible for this scent. Once a coal-based sealant dries, however, the scent will fade and your driveway will be protected throughout the year.

Acrylic Polymer

An acrylic polymer sealant is similar in strength to a coal-based one, but it won't produce an unpleasant scent during the application process. An acrylic polymer product can be expensive, due to its proposed life span, but this extra cost may actually work out to be comparable to a cheaper product since you will not need to apply the sealant as often as you would with a more basic sealant type.

Asphalt Products

Asphalt products are a standard sealant type that will get the job done, but that may require a subsequent application on occasion. Asphalt products contain crude oil and additives, which create a blend that will adhere to asphalt and provide it with a slick surface. If you choose this type of product and want the sealant to hold up for as long as possible, apply two coats of sealant, allowing plenty of time for drying in between each application.

Application Tools

Choose a premium or commercial grade sealant and purchase the equipment needed to accurately apply the product. A paint tray, a roller, and a handle are some essentials that will aid with an even application of the sealcoat product. Use drop cloths to protect grassy surfaces that are next to the driveway. If plants and shrubbery are growing in the vicinity, use drapes to cover them. These steps will protect the landscaping.

Before you apply the sealant, use a leaf blower or a broom to remove dirt from the surface. Even though the pavement may have just been applied, debris may have blown onto the pavement or settled along the edges of the driveway. Contact asphalt sealcoating services to learn more.