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You have invested thousands in a new driveway or parking lot. Naturally, you want it to last as long as possible. In New Jersey, asphalt faces a triple threat: UV radiation from the summer sun, oxidation from air exposure, and chemical erosion from de-icing salts and oil leaks.

Without protection, asphalt becomes brittle and turns gray within a few years. This is where sealcoating comes in. Sealcoating is the preventative maintenance standard for pavement. However, there is a vast difference between a professional sealcoat job and the "bucket guys" knocking on your door. Here is how Black Diamond Paving, a trusted construction company in NJ, approaches pavement preservation.

Why Asphalt Deteriorates Asphalt is essentially stone held together by a sticky black glue (bitumen).

Oxidation: Oxygen and UV rays attack the bitumen, causing it to harden and lose flexibility. As it shrinks, the stones loosen (raveling), and hairline cracks appear.
Water Damage: Once cracks appear, water enters the base. When that water freezes, it expands, turning small cracks into potholes.
What Sealcoating Does Sealcoating applies a protective layer over the asphalt.

Replenishes Binder: It acts as a barrier against oxidation, keeping the underlying bitumen flexible.
Waterproofs: It seals the porous surface, preventing water penetration.
Resists Chemicals: Quality sealers resist gas and oil spills, which dissolve raw asphalt.
Curb Appeal: It restores the deep, slate-black color that makes the driveway look brand new.
The "Bucket Guy" Scam vs. Professional Application Every spring, trucks roam NJ neighborhoods offering cheap sealing. They often use "oil-based" sprays that are essentially black paint or diesel fuel mixtures. These wash off in months and can actually damage your asphalt.

Our Material: We use commercial-grade asphalt emulsion sealers. We mix them with silica sand (for traction and durability) and latex additives (for flexibility and darker color).
Application: We apply sealer using squeegees or high-pressure spray systems, depending on the surface texture. Squeegee application is superior for rough driveways as it forces the sealer deep into the voids.
The Right Timing

New Driveways: Do NOT seal a new driveway immediately. Fresh asphalt needs to "cure" (harden) for at least 6-12 months. Sealing too soon traps the oils, leaving the driveway permanently soft.
Frequency: In NJ, sealcoating should be done every 2-3 years. Sealing every year is actually bad—it creates a thick, flaky layer ("surface checking") that looks like peeling paint.
Conclusion Sealcoating is the most cost-effective way to double the life of your pavement. But it must be the right material applied at the right time. Trust Black Diamond Paving to maintain your investment with honest advice and professional-grade materials.