Frequently Asked Questions

  • Is a brush on or spray-on sealer asphalt application better?
    • ASCO brush applies sealer on all residential driveways as it is the best method for sealcoating application.  The thickness of the material is more consistent over the entire surface of the asphalt.  Our premium brush-on application prevents overspray on garage doors or landscaping.  Additionally, the manual application pushes the sealer into areas where protection is most needed.  For commercial work, the sealcoating application will be discussed with the property owner in determining the best method to be used.
  • How often should I have my asphalt seal coated?
    • Reapplication of sealer is based upon a variety of factors including weather and volume of traffic on the asphalt.  A good rule of thumb is reapplication every 2-3 years.
  • Will sealcoating stop grass from growing through the pavement?
    • No, but it will help hinder the growth process.  We recommend a regular application of weed killer.
  • I’m watching you seal my driveway, and the sealer is brown…is this normal?
    • In the liquid state, sealer is a brown emulsion.  When dry, it turns into a deep black coating.
  • How often should I have the cracks in my asphalt sealed?
    • Cracks in asphalt are a yearly maintenance.  NOTE—due to many variables, such as depth and thickness of the crack, settlement of the crack sealer may occur.  This is a natural occurrence, is not a defect in workmanship, and does not indicate that the sealer will fail in inhibiting water penetration.  
  • Is it normal for me to see areas of crack sealer when the job is completed?
    • Crack sealing material is a different texture than sealer, so it is normal to see this difference after application.
  • Is it normal to see tire tracks in sealer and in crack sealer?
    • It is normal to see tire tracks after the asphalt sealer is applied, although this is a temporary situation.  Due to the malleable nature of crack sealer, it is common for tire tracks to show up in the crack sealer.  Over time, the crack sealer will smooth out and the tracks will be less visible.
  • How long does it take asphalt to fully cure after sealcoating?
    • Like latex paint, it takes about thirty days for sealed asphalt to fully cure.  Being careful during this time will enhance the cosmetic appearance of your property (example: not turning your tires while sitting still).
  • What if I have an oil spot or other chemical spill on my asphalt?
    • We will pretreat your pavement the day of service and/or offer guidance to you in pretreating any chemical spills noticed on your asphalt.  We cannot, however, predict the reaction of these spills to the sealer, and are not responsible for any impact from any and all previous or subsequent chemical spills on asphalt including oil, gasoline, Armor All, tire cleaners, fertilizer, etc.
  • What if there is forecasted rain the day of my service?
    • We reserve the right, in our sole discretion, to move the date of your service due to weather-related reasons.  We regularly monitor inclement weather forecasts and radar, consider industry specifications related to drying times for our products, the condition of your asphalt, and any shade coverage over your pavement, in making a qualified decision as to whether we can perform the work.  We will inform you immediately if a change is necessary. 

Your Southern Maryland Neighborhood Residential and Commercial Pavement Maintenance Company