The Importance of Driveway Sealing in Canada

A well-maintained driveway is more than just an entrance; it’s a welcoming path that enhances the curb appeal of your home. In all Canadian provinces, where seasons bring diverse weather challenges, driveway sealing emerges as a crucial step in preserving the longevity and aesthetics of this essential feature. Whether you have an asphalt driveway or more expansive interlocking pavers, sealing your driveway when the time is due is crucial for keeping your hard earned investment lasting and outlasting its designated longevity.

Canada experiences a range of weather conditions, from freezing winters to scorching summers. The constant expansion and contraction of driveway surfaces due to temperature fluctuations can lead to cracks and deterioration. Driveway sealing acts as a protective shield, preventing water penetration, freeze-thaw damage, and the harmful effects of UV rays.

A new driveway is a significant investment, and homeowners in Canada are keen on maximizing its lifespan. Driveway sealing plays a pivotal role in extending the life of the driveway by creating a barrier that guards against the wear and tear caused by weather, vehicle traffic, and environmental elements. Believe it or not, number one cause of preemptive driveway damage is not wear & tear or damages caused by heavy objects, number one leading factor why asphalt or interlocking driveways fail is poor maintenance. Home owners can unknowingly destroy their expansive investments by simply ignoring the good maintenance practices.

Preventing Cracks and Costly Repair:

Over time, untreated driveways are susceptible to developing cracks that can and will destroy asphalt and interlocking even within few months of neglect. These imperfections not only compromise the aesthetic appeal but can also lead to more extensive damage. Every visible crack has the iceberg effect, what we see is only about 20%, the rest is lurking beneath the surface. Even small cracks will let water in during spring, summer and fall, washing slowly away underlayment sand that keeps your driveway in place. During fall and winter, those wet cracks will widen and split even further due to frost and ice build up, destroying your driveway even further. One rule of thumb is important to know: once the grass and weeds grow in cracks, damage is already done. Driveway sealing helps prevent the formation of cracks, limits cracks from widening, maintaining a smooth and durable surface that enhances both the functionality and visual appeal of the driveway. Prevent the costly replacement: The cost of a new driveway can vary based on factors such as material, size, and location. For a single-car driveway with a single garage in Ontario, the price typically ranges from $7,000 to $15,000 or more, depending on the material chosen (e.g., asphalt, concrete, interlocking pavers) and other factors. Sealing your driveway can cost as little as $300, a investment well worth investing into.

Asphalt vs. Interlocking Sealing

Asphalt driveway and interlocking pawer sealing are two totally different processes. Asphalt driveway sealing can be performed with cold or hot tar in order to seal small imperfections and to seal the driveway from deteriorations. Asphalt sealing can be applied on somewhat clean surface while interlocking driveway demands spotless cleaning before the clear sealer touches the surface. While the asphalt driveway sealing will be finished within few hours, interlocking sealing could be as long as three days. For both sealing processes, it is highly recommended to hire a local contractor of trust to perform this tasks. Not only will the work protect your driveway surface but the work performed will reflect upon your curb appeal. A well-maintained and well sealed driveway contributes significantly to the overall curb appeal of a home. Every homeowner will take pride in a neat and tidy exterior, and a freshly sealed and done right driveway provides an instant aesthetic lift. Don’t let this important task be a thing of circumstances, professional driveway sealing contractor will get the job done the way it is intended.

Driveways are prone to oil leaks, stains, and the occasional spillage. Professional contractor will know how to remove even the most stubborn stains from your driveway surfaces. Pressure washing and use of specially designed detergents will help to remove dirt, grime, algae, leaf stains and even oil spots. After the washing is done, sealing can start. Sealing the driveway creates a protective layer that makes it easier to clean and prevents oil and other substances from penetrating the surface. This protection is especially valuable in homes where vehicles are regularly parked.

Return on Investment:

Considering the cost of a new driveway in Canada, homeowners view driveway sealing as a cost-effective measure to protect their investment. The relatively modest expense of sealing pays dividends in terms of preventing more extensive damage and the need for costly repairs or replacements down the line. Every $100 invested in maintenance is saving $1000 or more on future repair. Same rule applies to driveway maintenance, the more costly the investment, the more time and expertise needs to be invested into maintenance.

Sealing interlocking driveways can often involve filling new polymeric sand as preventive maintenance schedule. In order to prevent pavers from shifting, sometimes polymeric sand that goes in between the pavers need to be filled or completely replaced. This process is only needed if proper sealing schedules have been ignored. Again, your local driveway sealing specialist will know if such task is needed and will advise you on material and costs that will apply. Should you need polymeric sand in your maintenance schedule these are the usual steps:

• Pressure Washing
• 48hr drying period
• Adding polymeric sand
• Sprinkling water over freshly added sand for curing
• 48hr drying period
• sealing with clear sealer

After the sealer is applied usually your driveway is ready for traffic within 24 hours.

In the realm of home maintenance in Canada, driveway sealing stands out as a proactive and cost-effective measure. Beyond the immediate visual impact, it serves as a shield against the unpredictable weather conditions that characterize the country. As homeowners weigh the cost of a new driveway against the relatively small investment in sealing, the choice becomes clear: preserving the path with regular driveway sealing is an investment in the long-term health, longevity, and curb appeal of one’s home.