What to Expect During a Professional Sealcoating Job: A Step-by-Step Walkthrough
By Select Sealcoating & Paving · Southern Maine
If you've never had your driveway or parking lot professionally sealcoated before, it can feel like a mystery. How long will it take? Do you need to move your car? Will it smell? This guide walks you through exactly what happens from the moment we arrive to the moment you're back on your freshly sealed surface — no surprises.
The Process
Step 1: The Free Estimate
Before any work begins, we visit your property to assess the condition of your asphalt. We check for cracks, potholes, oil stains, and drainage issues. This visit is free and takes about 15–20 minutes. You'll receive a clear, honest quote — no pressure, no hidden fees.
Good to know: If your pavement has significant cracks or base damage, we'll recommend crack filling or repairs before sealcoating. Sealcoat over unrepaired damage won't hold up — and we'll always tell you that up front.
Step 2: Scheduling and Weather Check
We'll schedule your job on a day with dry weather and temperatures above 50°F — sealcoat needs warmth and no rain to cure properly. We monitor forecasts closely and will reschedule if conditions aren't right. Maine weather can be unpredictable, so flexibility here is key to a quality result.
Step 3: Surface Prep — The Most Important Step
On the day of service, our crew starts by thoroughly cleaning the surface — blowing off debris, removing loose material, and treating any oil stains with a primer. Edge grass and weeds along the pavement borders are trimmed back. This prep work is what separates a long-lasting sealcoat from one that peels within a season.
What you need to do: Clear your driveway of vehicles, bikes, basketball hoops, or anything stored on the pavement at least 24 hours before the appointment.
Step 4: Crack Filling (If Needed)
Any cracks identified during the estimate are filled with hot rubberized crack filler before the sealcoat goes down. This flexible material expands and contracts with Maine's freeze-thaw cycle, preventing water from getting underneath your asphalt and causing further damage.
Step 5: Applying the Sealcoat
We apply a commercial-grade coal tar or asphalt-based emulsion sealant using a squeegee or spray system, depending on your surface. Edges and tight areas are cut in by hand. Most residential driveways receive two coats for even, durable coverage. The whole application process typically takes 1–3 hours depending on the size of the job.
What it looks like: You'll see a deep, rich black finish that dramatically improves curb appeal — this is also a sign the protective layer is thick and even.
Step 6: Curing Time — Stay Off the Surface
Once the sealcoat is applied, it needs time to cure. In warm, dry conditions, expect to stay off the surface for 24–48 hours. Cooler or humid weather may extend this. We'll place cones or caution tape at your driveway entrance and let you know exactly when it's safe to return.
Common mistake: Walking on the surface too early leaves footprints. Driving on it too soon can scuff or tear the fresh coat. The wait is worth it.
Step 7: Final Walkthrough
Before we pack up, we do a final inspection to make sure coverage is even and edges are clean. We'll go over any notes — like avoiding power washing for the first few weeks or watching for tire scuffs in the first few days of hot weather. You're left with a clean, protected surface and a clear picture of when to sealcoat again.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a sealcoating job take from start to finish? Most residential driveways take 2–4 hours for prep and application. Allow 24–48 hours to cure before you can drive on it again.
What if it rains the same day? We won't apply sealcoat if rain is in the forecast. If unexpected rain hits within a few hours of application, the job may need to be redone. This is rare because we watch forecasts carefully — but if it happens, we make it right.
Will it smell? Yes — sealcoat has a strong odor during application and for a few hours after. It dissipates as the surface cures. Ventilate your garage if it's attached.
How soon can I park on it? Wait at least 24 hours in warm weather, 48 in cooler conditions. For the first week, avoid sharp turns in place, which can scuff the fresh coat.
How often should I sealcoat? We recommend every 2–3 years for most driveways in Maine. Surfaces with heavy sun exposure or high traffic may benefit from more frequent maintenance.
Ready to protect your pavement?
Select Sealcoating serves Southern and Coastal Maine — from Biddeford and Saco to Scarborough, Kennebunk, Portland, and Wells. Free estimates, honest pricing, and work built for Maine weather.
📞 Call (207) 815-8035
