Will Asphalt Sealcoating Repair Oil Stains on My Pavement?

Sometimes, things that cost very little can have substantial value. One such example involves the lament, often attributed to Benjamin Franklin, regarding the chain of losses that resulted from the want of a nail to secure a horseshoe. Asphalt sealcoating is another example of how a very reasonably priced procedure can save thousands of dollars in repairs and help prevent the premature deterioration of your pavement. However, sealcoating cannot solve every issue that an asphalt pavement might have. For example, sealcoat is not capable of repairing oil stains on your asphalt pavement.

Why Can’t Asphalt Sealcoating Repair Oil Stains?

There are several reasons that painting over an oil stain with seal coating will be an exercise in futility. First of all, sealcoating is an asphalt maintenance procedure that is meant to prevent damage, not repair it. Most Treasure Coast asphalt sealcoating contractors would be delighted if sealants could repair potholes, cracks, or other types of pavement damage, but it simply cannot do so. Therefore, any parking lot repair should be completed before the sealant is applied. Second, if you try to sealcoat over a typical oil stain, the odds are that the sealant will not adhere to the oil. Lastly, even if you manage to get the sealant to cover the stain, the oil will eat its way up through the sealant as well as down into the pavement, leaving the asphalt a soft, crumbly mess.

What Do Parking Lot Maintenance Companies Do About Oil Stains When Performing Asphalt Sealcoating?

Typically, Florida asphalt maintenance companies clean the spot to remove any oil that is on the surface. They may apply a product to absorb any liquid before they go to work on the stain. There are numerous products that can safely remove or lessen the stain without damaging the asphalt. Most products include a degreasing agent that can break up the oil. Techniques can vary, but a common method is to work the cleanser into the stain with a soft cloth, wait a bit, then set to work with a soft brush. The process may need to be repeated several times to achieve the desired results. As you can see, oil stain removal can be a tedious, labor-intensive process. Once your parking lot maintenance company has removed as much of the stain as possible, it may be necessary to apply a primer over the spot to enhance the bond between the seal coating and the asphalt.

Are Gasoline Stains Also a Problem for Treasure Coast Asphalt Sealcoating?

Virtually all automotive fluids are petroleum-based products that can interact with asphalt pavements in a very detrimental manner. Gasoline, transmission fluid, diesel, power steering fluid, and brake fluid can all soften asphalt pavements. However, because the type and severity of the stain can vary widely, only your asphalt maintenance contractor can advise you on how much these types of stains will affect your sealant application.

For Superior Florida Asphalt Maintenance, Repair, and Paving, Trust Asphalt Care Services

Asphalt Care Services is a family-owned parking lot maintenance company with its roots dating back to 1993. We have never wavered in our commitment to deliver work of the highest quality and customer service that is beyond exceptional. We offer an extensive range of services, including sealcoating, asphalt repair, parking lot striping, traffic signs, asphalt paving, speed bump installation, thermoplastic line striping, and concrete bumpers to clients along the Treasure Coast and beyond. If you would like to receive a free, no-hassle quote, you can reach us by phone at 772-888-2840, or you can submit our online request form.