Discover the differences between water-based and oil-based asphalt sealers. Learn which is best for your parking lot’s durability, appearance, and environmental impact.
Summer is here and the forecast is hot, humid weather combined with torrential downpours and severe thunderstorms. Now is the time to protect your parking lot with asphalt sealers.
Sealcoat protects the asphalt and underlying foundation from potential damage due to environmental factors and regular wear and tear, thereby extending the lifespan of the asphalt.
When it comes to protecting high-traffic areas such as parking lots, asphalt sealers can be either water-based or oil-based. Both have unique benefits depending on your needs, budget, and preferences.
Asphalt sealers are designed to act as a protective barrier between the surface and water infiltration, harmful UV rays, and the natural oxidation process. Over time, asphalt parking lots can become damaged and weakened from high traffic volumes, abrasion from accidents, and environmental factors. Chemical spills from vehicles, rain, and wear and tear can also cause the asphalt to deteriorate creating an unsafe and unattractive space.
Specially formulated sealant can be applied to the asphalt surface to minimize the ravelling, cracking, and damage caused by regular use and exposure. The result is a smoother, visually appealing asphalt surface.
There are two main types of sealers, water-based and oil-based. Both offer similar benefits such as durability and long-lasting protection. Understanding the pros and cons of each one can help you decide the best option for your commercial space.
Water-based asphalt sealers are formulated with a variety of natural ingredients (e.g., water, limestone, and various other fillers) that coalesce to create a product that’s highly effective in protecting driveways and parking lots. The mixture is then combined with a polymer that helps to bind the limestone particles together, resulting in a thick, smooth consistency that can be easily applied to asphalt surfaces.
Water-based asphalt sealers are environmentally friendly, have a low Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) profile, and drastically reduce the amount of fumes and odours that traditional sealers emit. Water-based sealers also dry quickly, making them an ideal choice for businesses with busy driveways. Due to the minimal cleanup and maintenance, water-based sealants are more convenient and streamline the sealing process.
Oil-based sealers are made up of asphalt binders and mineral fillers. The mixture is mixed with a variety of additives such as polymers and oils to enhance its strength and ability to resist water. The end result is a smooth, black surface that will provide reliable protection for years to come.
Oil-based sealants tend to cost more to install initially, but if installed correctly, they don’t require re-application as frequently. However, with high levels of VOCs, oil-based sealers can be a hindrance to businesses that want to reduce their carbon footprint. Oil-based sealers also emit a strong odour when applied, which can last for up to a week.
| Feature | Water-Based Sealers | Oil-Based Sealers |
| Composition | Water, acrylic/latex blend | Petroleum solvents, asphalt binders, additives |
| Drying Time | Faster drying (typically 1-4 hours) | Slower drying (can take 24-48 hours) |
| Odour | Low odour or odourless | Strong solvent odour during application |
| Environmental Impact | Considered more eco-friendly | May contain VOCs (volatile organic compounds) |
| Application | Easier application, less messy | Can be trickier to apply, requires proper ventilation |
| Durability | Varies depending on quality, typically lasts 3-5 years | Generally longer lifespan (3-7 years), but it depends on the quality of the sealer |
| Recoatability | Easier to recoat | May require complete removal before reapplication |
| Cost | Generally lower initial cost | May have a slightly higher initial cost |
Choosing the champion sealant for your pavement requires a bit of forethought. There are a handful of factors to consider during this process, including environmental concerns, desired drying time, application ease, budget, project scale, and desired lifespan.
For those who place eco-friendliness at the forefront, a water-based sealer may be the right choice thanks to its better environmental impact. Water-based sealers also dry faster and are easier to apply, making them a popular option for smaller projects on a tight timeline.
Some additional factors to consider include:
Sure-Seal Pavement Maintenance Inc. is the GTA’s leading paving contractor for asphalt sealcoating and slurry sealing projects. We also offer a range of asphalt installation, repair, and maintenance services to various municipalities across the province. In addition, to using a water-based emulsion sealer for extended durability, we guarantee the quality of our work and offer a seven-year warranty.
Call us today at 416-PAVEMENT or 416-410-3705 to schedule a free onsite consultation.
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