Does Sealing Driveway Make it Slippery?

When you first apply the sealant to your driveway, it will be slippery until it dries. However, since there should be no traffic on the pavement while the sealant is wet, this is virtually no problem. If the contractor doesn't mix the sealant properly, it can cause the pavement to become slippery even after the sealant has cured. Sealing a driveway can make it slippery depending on the type of sealant and the surface of the driveway.

Sealing an asphalt road is not usually slippery. A sealant that penetrates a concrete surface will not be slippery. An acrylic sealer on a concrete driveway can be slippery unless an anti-slip additive is included. However, if you use low-quality concrete sealants, the surface may become slippery.

Some sealants are high in solids that fill the pores of concrete. In that case, a solid layer forms on the surface of the pavement that becomes slippery when exposed to moisture. Another important factor that causes the slippery nature of the pavement is the application technique. Even if a good quality sealant is applied in excess, it will form a continuous top layer that will become slippery when wet.

Therefore, homeowners should choose experienced professionals who know the best concrete sealing techniques. The correct application technique would surely avoid the slippery nature of concrete. Consult experts specialized in concrete sealing, who will on-site inspect the hard surface and recommend the appropriate sealant that does not affect the traction level of the concrete. To prepare the sealant for use, contractors combine it with water and sand.

The quantities of each one depend on the type of sealer. Manufacturers provide specific instructions on how much material should be used to make a gallon (or more) of sealant. If the mixture is wrong, the quality of the sealant will be adversely affected. For example, if there is too much water in the mix, it won't have the same depth of coverage as it would if mixed correctly.

If there is too little (or no) sand in the mix, then this can cause your pavement to become slippery. Asphalt sealing coating can go a long way in improving the appearance and extending the life of asphalt pavement. However, this could be of little benefit to you if the sealant exposed you to potential liabilities caused by slippery pavement. The good news is that if mixed correctly, then your sealed paved pavement should have the same level of traction as a sealed coated parking lot or driveway.

Samantha Caffery
Samantha Caffery

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