Asphalt Sealer Calculator
Use this calculator to estimate the amount of asphalt sealer you'll need for your driveway or parking lot, along with the approximate cost.
(Check product label, typically 75-125 sq ft/gallon)
(Usually 2 coats are recommended for best results)
Calculation Results:
Understanding Asphalt Sealer and Its Importance
Asphalt sealer is a protective coating applied to asphalt pavements like driveways, parking lots, and pathways. It's a crucial part of maintaining the integrity and appearance of your asphalt surfaces, extending their lifespan and preventing costly repairs.
Why Seal Your Asphalt?
- Protection from Elements: Sealer creates a barrier against harsh weather conditions, including UV rays, rain, snow, and ice, which can cause asphalt to crack, fade, and deteriorate.
- Prevents Oxidation: Exposure to sunlight causes asphalt to oxidize, making it brittle and prone to cracking. Sealer blocks UV radiation, slowing down this process.
- Resists Chemical Spills: Oil, gasoline, and other automotive fluids can soften and dissolve asphalt. A good sealer provides resistance to these damaging chemicals.
- Enhances Appearance: A fresh coat of sealer restores the rich black color of asphalt, making it look new and improving curb appeal.
- Reduces Maintenance Costs: By protecting the asphalt from damage, sealing helps prevent potholes, cracks, and other issues that would otherwise require expensive repairs.
Factors Affecting Sealer Usage
The amount of asphalt sealer you'll need depends on several key factors:
- Pavement Size: The larger the area (length x width), the more sealer required.
- Surface Condition: Older, more porous, or heavily oxidized asphalt will absorb more sealer, requiring a higher coverage rate or potentially more coats. Newer, smoother asphalt will require less.
- Type of Sealer: Different sealer products have varying coverage rates. Always check the manufacturer's specifications on the product label. Common rates range from 75 to 125 square feet per gallon per coat.
- Number of Coats: Most professionals recommend at least two coats for optimal protection and durability. The first coat penetrates and seals, while the second coat provides a uniform finish and added protection.
- Application Method: Spraying typically uses less material than squeegee or brush application, but coverage rates are usually provided for standard application methods.
How to Use the Asphalt Sealer Calculator
Our calculator simplifies the estimation process:
- Pavement Length & Width: Measure the length and width of the area you plan to seal in feet. If your area is irregularly shaped, break it down into rectangles and sum their areas.
- Sealer Coverage Rate: Refer to the product label of your chosen asphalt sealer. This will tell you how many square feet one gallon of sealer covers per coat. A typical range is 75-125 sq ft/gallon.
- Number of Coats: Input the number of coats you intend to apply. Two coats are generally recommended for best results.
- Cost Per Gallon: Enter the approximate cost per gallon of the sealer you plan to purchase. This will help you estimate the total material cost.
Once you've entered these details, click "Calculate Sealer Needs" to get an estimate of the total area, gallons of sealer required, and the estimated total cost.
Example Calculation:
Let's say you have a driveway that is 50 feet long and 10 feet wide. You plan to use a sealer with a coverage rate of 100 sq ft per gallon per coat and apply 2 coats. The sealer costs $25 per gallon.
- Total Area: 50 ft * 10 ft = 500 sq ft
- Gallons per Coat: 500 sq ft / 100 sq ft/gallon = 5 gallons
- Total Gallons Needed (2 coats): 5 gallons/coat * 2 coats = 10 gallons
- Estimated Total Cost: 10 gallons * $25/gallon = $250
This calculator will provide these results instantly, helping you budget and purchase the correct amount of material.
Tips for Sealing Your Asphalt
- Clean Thoroughly: Before sealing, ensure the pavement is free of dirt, debris, oil stains, and weeds. Power washing is often recommended.
- Repair Cracks: Fill any cracks or potholes with appropriate asphalt repair products before sealing.
- Choose the Right Day: Apply sealer on a warm, dry day (typically above 50°F or 10°C) with no rain in the forecast for at least 24-48 hours.
- Apply Thin, Even Coats: Avoid applying sealer too thickly, as this can lead to cracking and peeling. Two thin coats are better than one thick coat.
- Allow Proper Drying Time: Follow the manufacturer's instructions for drying time between coats and before allowing traffic on the sealed surface.
By using this calculator and following proper application techniques, you can effectively protect and prolong the life of your asphalt surfaces.