Driveway Seal Coating: Is It Necessary Every Year?

Asphalt Contractors Inc., based in Union Grove, WI, has been paving the way (pun intended) in asphalt services since 1979. We do everything from asphalt paving to maintenance, concrete services, and more. We even manufacture our own asphalt, which means we control the quality and keep costs down for our customers in southeast Wisconsin and northeast Illinois. Today, we’re tackling a question we hear a lot from homeowners in Kenosha, WI: Do you really need driveway seal coating every year?

Seal Coating: The Basics

Driveway seal coating is like sunscreen for your driveway. It’s a protective layer that shields the asphalt from harsh weather, UV rays, water, and chemicals. Just like you wouldn’t head to the beach without sunscreen, your driveway needs a layer of protection, too. But with all the responsibilities of owning a home, you might wonder if driveway seal coating is something you need to do every single year.

Why Do We Seal Coat Anyway?

Seal coating has a lot of benefits. Not only does it give your driveway that rich, black look, but it also works under the surface to keep things intact. It prevents oxidation, keeps cracks at bay, and fights off damage from gas or oil spills. Essentially, seal coating is all about extending the life of your driveway—but the million-dollar question is: How often should you really be doing it?

The Pros and Cons of Annual Seal Coating

When it comes to maintaining your driveway, it’s all about finding the right balance. Applying seal coating every year has its benefits—like keeping your driveway consistently looking sharp and protecting it from the elements—but is it always necessary?

Pros of Annual Seal Coating

• Always Looks Great: Keeps your driveway looking fresh and well-kept.
• Constant Protection: Provides year-round defense against sun, rain, and chemicals.
• Peace of Mind: You don’t have to worry about damage sneaking up on you.

Cons of Annual Seal Coating

• Cost: Seal coating costs can add up if you’re doing it every year without real need.
• Overdoing It: Too many layers of sealant can lead to cracking or peeling.
• Time and Hassle: It takes time and effort to schedule and apply seal coating, especially if your driveway is already in good shape.

How Often Should You Seal Coat?

Several factors determine how often you should seal coat your driveway. In 2024, southeast Wisconsin’s winters are expected to be harsh, which means more freeze-thaw cycles that could damage your asphalt. For homeowners in Kenosha, we generally recommend seal coating every two years to keep things in top shape.

• Climate Matters: Kenosha winters can be brutal, and those freeze-thaw cycles are tough on asphalt. If you face extreme temperature changes, sealing every two years might be best.
• Traffic Counts: Got a busy driveway with lots of vehicles coming and going? Heavy use might mean you need seal coating more often.
• Driveway Condition: If your driveway is still in good condition, you can space out applications. Older driveways with existing cracks may need a bit more TLC.

Assess Your Driveway’s Needs

If you’re in Kenosha, WI, the big question is: Do you really need to seal coat your driveway every year? The simple answer is probably not. While seal coating is essential for protecting your driveway, most experts agree that doing it every two to three years is usually sufficient.

In 2024, with unpredictable weather ahead—hot summers and cold, wet winters—your driveway might take a beating. But doing a seal coat every other year or so will still give you the protection you need without overdoing it or wasting money.

How to Tell If It’s Time for Seal Coating

Instead of sticking to an annual schedule, take a close look at your driveway each year and check for these signs:

• Fading Color: If your driveway’s once-rich black color has faded to a dull gray, it’s time for a new coat.
• Cracks Are Showing: Small cracks are a signal that your driveway needs some attention.
• Oil and Gas Stains: Spots from chemical spills can weaken your asphalt—seal coating can prevent stains from setting in.

If you notice any of these issues in 2024, it’s a good idea to give Asphalt Contractors Inc. a call for a fresh seal coat.

Save Money with the Right Schedule

One of the main reasons people hesitate to seal coat annually is the cost. Sure, seal coating isn’t the priciest home maintenance job, but those yearly expenses can stack up. In Kenosha, WI, seal coating runs between $100 and $300 per application, depending on your driveway size.

If you space out seal coating to every two or three years, you’ll save quite a bit. Plus, you’ll avoid problems like peeling that can happen if you apply too much sealant too often.

Long-Term Savings

Skipping seal coating entirely is even worse for your wallet. In 2024, the cost of materials and labor keeps going up, which means replacing or repairing an asphalt driveway is pricier than ever. Seal coating every couple of years helps extend your driveway’s life, saving you money in the long haul.

Driveway Maintenance Tips

If you decide not to seal coat every year, that’s okay! But don’t skip out on maintenance. Here are a few simple ways to keep your driveway in great shape:

• Clean Regularly: Sweep away dirt, leaves, and other debris, and wash off oil or chemical spills as soon as you can.
• Patch Cracks: Use a good-quality asphalt crack filler to fix small cracks before they become big problems.
• Keep Grass Away: Grass and weeds love growing along driveway edges. Keep them trimmed back to prevent cracking.

With a bit of regular upkeep, your driveway will stay in good condition, and your next seal coat—even if it’s a couple of years down the line—will work even better.

So, is seal coating necessary every year? Not for most Kenosha homeowners. Driveway seal coating is an important part of asphalt maintenance, but it doesn’t need to happen annually. Instead, look at your driveway’s condition, the local climate, and your budget.

In 2024, the weather is set to be unpredictable—so it’s wise to stay on top of maintenance. Seal coating every two to three years, combined with some regular upkeep, will keep your driveway looking great and performing well without putting a dent in your finances.

If your driveway could use a bit of love and attention, Asphalt Contractors Inc. has got you covered. With over 40 years of experience in Kenosha, WI, we’re here to help you protect and maintain your driveway for years to come. Give us a call today to schedule an assessment and keep your driveway looking its best!