Is Driveway Sealing Worth It? What You Need To Know

If you're wondering if sealing your driveway is actually worth it (and we're guessing you are), then this is the guide for you.

Maintaining your driveway is essential to preserving its functionality, appearance, and longevity. While there are various factors to consider, driveway sealing can offer numerous benefits that make it worthwhile.

In this blog post, we will explore the advantages of driveway sealing, address common concerns, and provide insights to help you make an informed decision.

What is driveway sealing?

Driveway sealing is a preventative technique used to protect and enhance the lifespan of your driveway’s concrete. The specialized sealant is sprayed on the surface to create a protective barrier against moisture, chemical elements, and seasonal changes.

Is sealing your driveway worth it?

Yes, sealing your driveway provides a protective layer that prevents damage and extends the life of your concrete.

On top of that, a sealed driveway is resistant to stains from oil, grease, and other substances, making it easier to clean and maintain. It can also improve the overall appearance of your driveway, giving it a fresh and well-maintained look.

Most importantly, it prevents cracks and potholes from forming by reducing water penetration into the surface.

The driveway in the above photo has a sealant, and you can see the water droplets sitting on top of the concrete. Without sealant, that water would absorb into the concrete's pores and seep beneath the slab into the soil. 

Driveway sealing advantages

1. Protects from the weather: Sealing your driveway provides a protective barrier from harsh weather conditions and extends its lifespan.
2. Prevents cracking and spalling: Sealant helps minimize the formation of cracks and spalling by reducing water penetration, freeze-thaw cycles, and chemical damage.
3. Enhances curb appeal: A sealed driveway looks clean, well-maintained, and visually appealing. 
4. Easier maintenance: Driveways that are sealed are way easier to clean. The smooth surface means easier removal of dirt, stains, and debris. 
5. Cost-effective: Investing in sealant might be an upfront cost, but it's cost-effective in the long run. It prevents extensive repairs and premature replacement.

Disadvantages of driveway sealing:

1. Time and effort: Properly sealing a driveway requires thorough cleaning, preparation, and application of the sealant, which can be time-consuming and labor-intensive.
2. Limited effectiveness on damaged driveways: If your driveway has cracks or structural issues, you might have to do more than sealing. Concrete repair might be required.
3. Professional expertise: Achieving the best results with driveway sealing often requires professional expertise and equipment.

Does sealing the driveway fill in cracks?

No, the sealant is just a protective layer to put on your concrete. In the same way sunblock doesn’t conceal wrinkles, sealant will not fill in cracks.  But it will prevent cracks from forming or getting worse.

If you already have a lot of cracks in your concrete, then we suggest caulking first to fill in the cracks and then applying a sealant (And we can help with that).

Should you seal your driveway yourself?

Most big box stores sell concrete sealant products. Unfortunately, the most common ingredients in these DIY products are silanes and siloxanes, which usually require multiple coats and take a long time to dry. They also require reapplication over time, with a typical lifespan of five to seven years.

Professional concrete contractors use sealants with higher quality, stronger, and long-lasting ingredients. The sealant we use, SealantPro, has active ingredients that chemically combine with elements in the concrete itself to create a strong, permanent barrier.

Overall, driveway sealing is a worthwhile investment that not only protects your driveway but also enhances its longevity, aesthetics, and functionality. It provides peace of mind, saves you money in the long term, and helps maintain the value of your property.

If you're interested in driveway sealing and in our service area, our team at Thrasher Foundation Repair would love to help. Contact us today by starting a chat in the bottom right corner, filling out this form, or calling us at 1-800-827-0702.