As temperatures rise in Roanoke, Salem, Daleville, Moneta, and around Smith Mountain Lake, summer can be especially hard on your asphalt driveway. While warm weather is great for paving projects, the combination of intense heat and UV rays can slowly degrade your driveway over time—unless you take steps to protect it.
That’s where sealcoating comes in.
At Whittaker’s Paving Pros, we’ve been helping Southwest Virginia homeowners preserve their driveways with professional sealcoating since 1988. Here’s why summer is the perfect time to sealcoat your driveway—and how it helps protect your investment.
What Is Sealcoating?
Sealcoating is the process of applying a protective layer to the surface of your asphalt driveway. This layer shields the pavement from damaging elements like:
- UV rays
- High temperatures
- Rain and moisture
- Gas and oil spills
Think of it like sunscreen for your driveway—it adds years of life to the surface while enhancing its appearance.
1. Protection from UV Radiation
Southwest Virginia summers bring plenty of sunshine, and while we all enjoy those bright days, your asphalt driveway does not. UV rays break down the binders in asphalt, causing it to become brittle and prone to cracking. Sealcoating blocks those rays, slowing the aging process and keeping your pavement strong.
2. Shields Against Heat Damage
Asphalt can reach scorching temperatures under the summer sun—often exceeding 140°F. Prolonged exposure to heat can cause softening, warping, and deterioration. A fresh coat of sealant acts as a heat barrier, helping the surface stay intact longer.
3. Moisture and Chemical Resistance
Summer storms can lead to puddling and water infiltration, especially in small cracks. Sealcoating fills surface voids and prevents moisture from seeping in and eroding the base layer. It also provides resistance to gasoline, oil drips, and other chemicals that would otherwise stain or damage the asphalt.
4. Enhances Appearance and Curb Appeal
A freshly sealcoated driveway has a deep, rich black finish that instantly improves the look of your property. It’s an affordable way to give your home a facelift while also extending the life of your pavement.
When Should You Sealcoat?
For best results, asphalt driveways should be sealcoated:
- Every 2–3 years, depending on wear and weather exposure
- After any major crack filling or patching
- During dry, warm months like June through September
At Whittaker’s, we recommend sealcoating in early or mid-summer, when the weather is consistently dry and warm enough to ensure proper curing.
Trust the Local Pros Since 1988
Whittaker’s Paving Pros is a family-owned and operated company proudly serving Roanoke, Salem, Daleville, Moneta, Smith Mountain Lake, and surrounding Southwest Virginia communities for over 35 years. Our experienced team uses premium sealcoating products and professional-grade equipment to ensure long-lasting protection and a polished finish.
Ready to Protect Your Driveway?
Contact Whittaker’s Paving Pros today for a free sealcoating estimate. We’ll help you protect your driveway from the summer heat—and keep it looking great for years to come.
👉 mypavingpros.com | Call or message us to book your summer sealcoating service today!
