How Long Can You Stay Off the Pavement After a Reno Sealcoating Application?Asphalt sealcoating is a maintenance task that can keep your parking lot or driveway in good shape for decades, but it can be a time-intensive process. The curing process, in particular, requires you to stay off your pavement for several hours. But how long is pavement unusable after Reno sealcoating application? Here’s what you need to know.
Sealcoating is a multi-step process that requires contractors to block off your pavement as they work. It begins with thorough site preparation. Teams must clean every inch of pavement to ensure the seal coat product sticks. The process might include power-washing, wire-brush cleaning and pre-treating.
After the surface is clean and dry, contractors specializing in Reno sealcoating will apply two or three coats of asphalt emulsion sealer. Then, they allow the seal coat product to cure.
Asphalt sealcoat formulas need warm and dry conditions to cure properly. Formula specifications vary, but manufacturers typically recommend applying seal coat products when temperatures are above 50 and below 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Most also recommend Reno sealcoating application when relative humidity is below 60 percent.
In those conditions, sealcoating is still a day-long affair. The actual seal coat application process usually lasts several hours. Most contractors performing asphalt sealcoating in Reno offer some flexibility, allowing property owners to schedule applications during the most beneficial times of the day. However, weather conditions do come into play.
In the best conditions, asphalt sealcoating will be dry to the touch after two to four hours. However, most experts recommend waiting at least eight hours until you walk on the pavement. Walking on it before then may lead to tracking.
While you may walk on asphalt sealcoat after eight hours, vehicle traffic must wait longer. Most sealers need 24 to 48 hours to cure enough for vehicles. Contractors usually advise property owners to wait the full 48 hours, but they can inspect the asphalt sealcoat after 24 hours if necessary.
Most don’t realize it, but asphalt sealcoating in Reno isn’t fully cured after that 48-hour period. It continues to cure over 30 days. Therefore, you must exercise caution for a full month, avoiding turning tires while parked and harsh chemicals that could damage the sealcoating.
How long your sealcoating in Reno takes to cure depends on weather conditions and exposure. Contractors know to be mindful of the weather before sealcoating in Reno. Skilled contractors will only apply sealer when the weather is good on application days and several days after. However, inclement weather can be unpredictable.
After application, cooler temperatures and high humidity levels can extend the curing process by another full day. The same goes for surfaces that don’t receive direct sun exposure. In those cases, experts advise that property owners stay off their pavement for 72 hours after Reno sealcoating.
You can trust Affordable Striping & Sealing for all your Reno sealcoating needs. We’re a trusted contractor that’s proudly served commercial and residential property owners throughout Washoe country for over 30 years! Our services include asphalt sealcoating, crack repairs, parking lot layout design, striping and parking lot maintenance.
We know how important your time is. Our team can work with you to minimize disruptions to your property and business while delivering top-notch results. Call Affordable Striping & Sealing at (775)825-1101, email us at RenoOffice@affordablestriping.com or use our online contact form to get in touch and receive your free project quote.
Our company has been serving the community for over 30 years. During this time, we’ve established a reputation for upholding honesty and integrity within the industry.
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