This excerpt is from an article first published in Restaurant Facility Business Magazine in February/March 2012.
As any restaurateur knows, seal coating is an important part of a parking lot maintenance plan. Seal coating fills surface voids, which delays oxidation and protects against UV rays and reduces the depth to which oil or gas can penetrate the pavement. A sealer acts as a waterproofing agent, minimizing the rate at which water enters pavement. Without it, water can permeate more freely resulting in freeze/thaw expansion and contraction of the pavement.
Perhaps most important, a properly sealed asphalt structure can last as much as double a similar area that is left untreated. Considering the uncertain future cost of replacing asphalt compared to the minimal cost of seal coating, the choice to perform this preventative maintenance procedure is clearly a better return on investment.
Thankfully, due to the ever-growing green building movement, there are alternative products on the market. Some of which may even qualify for various LEED® credits, depending on the project. One such option involves the use of a bio-based sealer.
Bio-based sealers are soy based and contain no petroleum, making them a uniquely sustainable alternative designed specifically to maintain and preserve asphalt pavements. When applied regularly, every three to five years, bio-based solutions yield significant advantages. Some of these benefits include: cure time of 60-90 minutes, no tracking, cost effective, reduces moisture penetration, and it is carbon negative. Once applied, the sealer works deep into the asphalt matrix, penetrating on average 0.75 to 1.25 inches deep. There is also no need to restripe after application, which saves the hassle of extended parking lot down time and expensive labor. It also helps maintain the skid resistance that deteriorates as asphalt wears down over time. Read more…
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