Why Los Lunas asphalt fades fast
The valley gets strong sun most of the year and long, hot summers. That combination cooks the binder at the surface of asphalt, turning it gray, then brittle, then loose. Sealcoat is a sacrificial layer that takes that beating instead.
Is your driveway a good candidate?
| Looks like | What to do |
|---|---|
| Gray, slightly rough, mostly flat | Crack seal and sealcoat |
| Scattered thin cracks | Crack seal and sealcoat |
| Loose stones, very rough | Possibly an overlay |
| Spiderweb cracks or sinking | Repair first, then seal |
Our routine
- Trim grass and weeds at the edges; sweep and blow
- Treat oil spots
- Hot-pour crack sealant
- Hand-edge along garage, walks and landscaping
- Two coats with sand added for grip
- Block it off and leave cure instructions
Timing in the valley
Spring through early fall works well. In July and August we start at first light and avoid afternoons when monsoon storms build. Fresh asphalt should cure 6–12 months before its first coat.
Common questions
How long before I can park on it?
Usually 24–48 hours, depending on temperature.
Do you sealcoat commercial lots?
Yes, often with restriping after.
Will it cover cracks?
Sealcoat doesn't fill cracks — that's why we hot-pour them first.