Is Sealing Your Driveway Worth It? A Comprehensive Guide to Driveway Sealing

 

Maintaining your driveway is essential to preserving its functionality, appearance, and longevity.  While there are many factors to consider, driveway sealing can offer several benefits that make it worthwhile.  This blog post will explore the advantages and disadvantages of driveway sealing, and provide valuable insights to help you make an informed decision. 

 

What is driveway sealing?

Driveway sealing is a preventative technique used to protect and enhance the lifespan of your driveway's concrete.  The sealant is sprayed on the surface to create a protective barrier against moisture, chemical elements, and seasonal changes. 

 

Is sealing your driveway really worth it?

Ultimately, yes.  Sealing your driveway helps to provide a protective layer that prevents damage and extends the life of your concrete.  Additionally, a sealed driveway is resistant to stains from oil, grease, and other substances, making it easier to clean and maintain.  It can also improve the overall appearance of your driveway, giving it a fresh and well-maintained look.

Perhaps most importantly, it prevents cracks and potholes from forming by reducing water penetration into the surface.  

 

Advantages of driveway sealing 

1) Protects from the weather: Sealing your driveway provides a protective barrier from harsh weather conditions and extends its lifespan.

2) Prevents cracking and pitting: Sealant helps minimize the formation of cracks and pitting by reducing water penetration, freeze-thaw cycles, and chemical damage.

3) Enhance curb appeal: A sealed driveway looks clean, well-maintained, and visually appealing

4) Easier maintenance: Driveways that are sealed are significantly easier to clean.  The smooth surface means easier removal of dirt, stains, and debris.

5) Cost-effective: Investing in sealant may be an upfront cost, but it is cost-effective in the long run by preventing extensive repairs and premature replacement.

 

Disadvantages of driveway sealing

1) Time and effort: Properly sealing a driveway requires thorough cleaning, preparation, and application of the sealant, which can be time-consuming and labor-intensive.

2) Limited effectiveness on damaged driveways: If your driveway has cracks or structural issues, you might have to do more than sealing.  Concrete repair may be required. 

3) Professional expertise: Achieving the best results with driveway sealing often requires professional expertise and equipment.  

 

Should you seal your driveway yourself? 

Most big box stores do sell concrete sealant products.  However, the most common ingredients in these DIY products usually require multiple coats and take a long time to dry.  They also require reapplication over time, with a typical lifespan of five to seven years.  

 

Professional concrete repair contractors use sealants with higher quality, stronger, and long-lasting ingredients.  For example, the sealant we use, SealantPro, has active ingredients that chemically combine with elements in the concrete itself to create a strong, permanent barrier.  

 

At the end of the day, driveway sealing is a worthwhile investment that not only protects your driveway but also enhances its longevity, aesthetics, and functionality.  Driveway sealing not only provides peace of mind, but saves you money in the long term, and helps maintain the value of your property. 

 

If you are interested in driveway sealing or SealantPro, our team at Woodford Bros. would love to help.  Contact us online or give us a call at 1-934-201-5848 to schedule a free inspection and estimate today!