Crack sealing is one of the most effective ways to extend the life of your asphalt surface. At Coatings, Inc., we’ve helped hundreds of Colorado property managers, business owners, and municipalities prevent larger pavement problems with strategic, high-quality crack sealing. But getting the most out of this service doesn’t stop when the crew rolls away.
Once your asphalt has been sealed, the next steps matter. How you care for that surface in the hours, days, and months that follow can make or break the long-term success of your crack sealing investment. Below, we’ll walk you through what to do—and what to avoid—so your sealed asphalt holds strong through every season.
Why Post-Sealing Care Is So Important
Crack sealing works by creating a flexible, waterproof barrier that prevents water, debris, and chemicals from entering cracks in your pavement. This is especially critical in places like Denver, where freeze-thaw cycles can quickly turn small cracks into deep potholes or structural failures.
But even the best crack sealing job needs proper aftercare to stay effective. Without it, the sealant can separate, deteriorate, or fail altogether—leading to repeat issues, higher repair costs, and a shortened pavement lifespan. Fortunately, most maintenance is simple and straightforward when you know what to watch for.
What to Do After Crack Sealing
To keep your pavement in excellent condition, follow these best practices after service:
- Limit Heavy Traffic at First
Avoid driving or parking heavy vehicles on newly sealed areas for at least 24 hours, unless advised otherwise by your contractor. This gives the sealant time to fully bond and cure. - Give It Time to Dry
Sealants are sensitive to moisture. Make sure the area stays dry for as long as recommended—typically at least several hours—before exposing it to water from rain, irrigation, or cleaning. - Clean Debris Regularly
Dirt, sand, or organic matter can collect on sealed cracks and break down the edges over time. Light sweeping or blowing helps maintain a clean, effective seal. - Inspect Annually
Take a close look at your pavement every year. Check for signs of re-opening cracks, sealant shrinkage, or new damage. Early detection keeps maintenance simple. - Schedule Re-Sealing When Needed
Crack sealing isn’t permanent. Depending on weather conditions, traffic, and surface wear, it typically lasts 3–5 years. Stay on top of the timing to avoid bigger repairs.
What to Avoid After
Just as important as what you do is what you don’t do. These common mistakes can compromise your crack sealing and shorten the life of your pavement:
- Don’t Drive Heavy Loads Too Soon
Fresh sealant can shift or smear if driven on too soon. Keep trucks, equipment, or large vehicles off the area for the recommended time. - Don’t Let Moisture In Too Early
If water gets into cracks before the sealant cures, it can weaken the bond and reduce the sealant’s ability to protect the pavement. - Don’t Ignore Adjacent Damage
If surrounding areas are crumbling or alligatored, crack sealing won’t be enough on its own. Have a professional evaluate whether more extensive asphalt repair is needed. - Don’t Assume It’s One-and-Done
Some property managers assume sealing once means the job is done for a decade. But like oil changes or roof maintenance, pavement protection is a routine process.
Keep Your Asphalt Strong for the Long Haul
At Coatings, Inc., we know how important it is to protect your pavement investment. That’s why we use the highest quality materials, clean every crack thoroughly before sealing, and apply each treatment with precision. But our job is only part of the equation—the rest depends on good maintenance habits from the people who use the surface every day.If you’re unsure when to re-seal or how to build a long-term maintenance plan, our team is happy to help. We’ve provided trusted crack sealing services in the Denver Metro area for more than 50 years, and we’ll make sure your pavement gets the care it needs.