DIY Driveway Sealing

On this page you will find answers for Do-it-Yourself sealcoating and other contractors who perform services that we do not provide. Our FAQ page has information on the services we provide.

 We know a lot of people who have small driveways and would like to try to do it themselves. The question we get most is, "What's the difference between the sealer you use and what I can get at the hardware store?" The ones we have checked out seem to be very thick and hard to work with. Some of our customers have commented that after it has rained a few times it has simply washed off. When it dries it does not seem to be quite as black either. If you get some and it is almost as thick as a paste I would add a pitcher of water to it. It will make it a lot easier to work with and won't look as streaked when it dries. If your driveway is around 20' wide and 50' long two buckets should complete the job for you. That is if your driveway is in fairly good shape and has been sealcoated before. If your driveway has not been sealed it will act like a big sponge and it is hard to tell how much sealer you will need. 

 What you will need; The most important thing you will want is a spray bottle full of water. If you get any sealer on you garage door, concrete, or siding spray it off before it dries. We use squeegees to apply the sealer. The brand name we use is "Procoater" and start at about $50. Using a cheep squeegee, broom, or mop will result in lines and streaks. Your shoes, socks, and pants will probably get sealer on them too. Dump the bucket out on the drive and either use a windshield wiper type movement or go up and down the drive spreading the sealer. When your done rinse the squeegee before it dries. Over time you will save yourself money by doing it yourself and the satisfaction of doing it yourself. Sealcoating is another one of those things that look a lot easier to do than what they it really is. We're not trying to discourage you  from doing it yourself. We're just letting you know to do the job right and have it look good unless you are prepared to seal it yourself for many years to come it is cheaper and will look better by hiring a professional to do the work for you.

Equipment needed

1. Sealant, you will get what you pay for here. A cheap sealant will start showing signs of wear in just a few months.
2. Squeegee, Once again this is an item you will not want to scrimp on. A cheap squeegee will leave lines and streaks on your driveway.
3. Spray bottle, as stated above and splashing they may occur can quickly be remove if you spray it with water.
4. Safety equipment, eye protection, old clothes, and gloves. Some people are very sensitive to the sealer and get a sealer burn when the sealer gets on their skin. Do not attempt this project in nothing more than shorts and sandals. Where a long sleeve shirt and long pants. 

Procedures

1.  Preparation of your asphalt driveway is very important. If you have any oil or fluid dripping from your vehicles you will need to clean those off first. Most degreaser should work just fine.
2.  You will want to edge your driveway so the sealer can cover the sides. 
3.  Next you will want to remove all the debris from your driveway either by using a blower, broom,  or a hose. If you have access to a power washer this would be best but not necessary. 
4.  Next you will want to dump out your bucket of sealant. Do this down one side of your drive and about 15 feet in length. Do not just dump it out in one big puddle. Start in an up and down motion to squeegee the sealant over your driveway. Be sure to cover the edges. Using anything other than a professional grade squeegee will leave your driveway with streaks, lines and an uneven finish. We use 36 and 48 inch Procoater. 

COVERAGE

Coverage rate per bucket is given in a range. This is because the surface texture of a asphalt driveway varies widely. Rough, and heavily textured surfaces will need much more material than will a smooth surfaces. A porous driveway may actually require more material than the rate stated on the bucket.

To determine the amount of material you will need to seal your driveway, you will need to calculate the area in square feet. Multiply the width times the length to do this. Refer to the products instructions and divide the area of your driveway by the coverage rate for selected products to determine the number of buckets of sealer needed.

PRIMARY ROUTES OF ENTRY AND EMERGENCY FIRST AID PROCEDURES

Eye Contact: Coal Tar - Vapors and mist may cause irritation to the eyes. Eye contact with product will result in irritation, which in the absence of recommended first aid, can result in minor burns to eyes. If eye contact occurs,
flush with water or mineral oil for at least 15 minutes and SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION. Inorganic particulates; quartz,
etc., may cause mechanical irritation.

Skin: Coal Tar - Exposure causes skin irritation characterized by skin itching, burning, swelling, and redness.
Photosensitization of the skin may occur. This irritation has a burning sensation somewhat like sunburn and is
accentuated by sunlight. Repeated or prolonged contact may contribute to conditions such as dermatitis, tar warts, and
rough skin. If contact occurs, wash affected area with waterless hand cleaner. Remove contaminated clothing/shoes and
do not reuse until thoroughly laundered. If irritation persists, SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION.

Inhalation: Coal Tar - Acute effects caused from overexposure may include coughing, sneezing, and swollen or irritated
nasal mucosa and sinuses. Repeated and/or prolonged contact to high concentrations may result in toxic effects, such as
respiratory difficulties, convulsions, and possible cardiovascular collapse may occur. If inhaled, remove to fresh air.
If not breathing, give artificial respiration or oxygen as needed. SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION.

Ingestion: Coal Tar - May cause gastrointestinal tract irritation followed by nausea and vomiting, abdominal
discomfort, rapid pulse, etc. In extreme cases, cardiovascular collapse may occur. If ingested, DO NOT INDUCE VOMITING. Give water or clear liquids. Consult local Poison Control Center, IMMEDIATELY!

If your looking for an overlay, new driveway, or an addition we do not do that type of work. We highly recommend calling "Midwest Asphalt" 314-960-4802

DYI