If you have pavement in Colorado Springs, you eventually need either sealcoating Colorado Springs or asphalt repair Colorado Springs. It is easy to mix up the two. Sometimes people end up coating over problems that need repair, or wasting money repairing things that simple sealing could have fixed.
What is the Basic Difference?
Sealcoating Colorado Springs is like a raincoat for your pavement: it protects but does not fix real damage. Asphalt repair Colorado Springs is for fixing holes, cracks, or broken areas. If your surface is already showing issues, repair comes first.
When Should You Seal? When Should You Repair?
- Surface is faded but has no deep cracks: Go for asphalt sealcoating Colorado Springs CO.
- Cracks look bigger than a pencil, or potholes appear: Call for asphalt repair Colorado Springs first.
- Edges crumble or wash away: Immediate repair, then seal later.
Years ago, I thought one coat of sealer would fix everything. I ended up sealing over weeds and mud. Next spring, the cracks looked worse, not better.
How to Tell What Your Asphalt Needs
- Pencil test: If the crack is wider than a pencil, repairs are needed.
- Stain and water test: Water should bead on sealed surfaces, not soak in.
- Color: Faded gray means the old seal is gone.
Why is Colorado Springs Sealcoating so Popular?
The weather is unpredictable. It snows, rains, and the sun dries out everything quickly. Seal asphalt Colorado Springs CO contractors agree: sealing is not enough if you wait until potholes are everywhere. That is when repair crews take over.
What Does Asphalt Repair Include?
- Filling deep cracks with hot or cold patch
- Patching potholes and sunken spots
- Replacing badly damaged edges
This prepares the area for a future sealcoat. Skipping repairs and just sealing never lasts long.
Sealcoating Basics: What Happens?
Contractors lay down a protective coating, usually after cleaning and sometimes after minor repairs. This process shields the surface from more sun, water, and chemicals. It is not a fix for structural problems.
Sealcoating slows aging, but never reverses past damage.
Cost Difference: Sealing Versus Repairing
Usually, asphalt sealing Colorado Springs costs less per square foot than repairs. Repairs are unavoidable once cracks and potholes show up.
| Service | Average Cost per Square Foot | When to Use |
|---|---|---|
| Sealcoating | $0.20 – $0.40 | Faded, minor cracks |
| Repair (potholes/cracks) | $1.10 – $2.00 | Deep cracks, holes |
Example: When Both Services Are Needed
A business lot that has ignored their surface for years probably needs both. Big cracks get filled, then the whole area is sealed for future protection. Doing just one step skips problems hidden beneath.
Sealcoating after repairs stops water, salt, and sun from undoing the hard work of fixing cracks and holes.
Picking the Right Asphalt Contractor in Colorado Springs
- Ask if repair is included in the sealing quote
- Check customer reviews for both repair and sealing work
- Look for clear explanations, not just quick promises
Asphalt Advanced Services LLC has a track record locally and explains when sealing alone is not enough.
DIY or Professionally Done?
DIY patch kits sometimes work for a tiny area, but most people miss cleaning deep enough, or they seal over dirt. Professional asphalt contractor Colorado Springs repairs and seals everything from small holes to warehouse parking lots, using industrial tools and better products.
- DIY: Less upfront cost, potentially short-term result
- Professional: More cost, but longer life and warranty
I tried patching a pothole myself years back. It lasted about three months, then washed out after the first storm.
Commercial Versus Home Asphalt: Repairs and Sealing
Businesses usually cannot wait for problems to spread. Commercial lots have rules and safety standards, so getting both repairs and sealing on a schedule matters. Residential driveways are more flexible, and sometimes basic sealing works longer.
What Can Happen If You Ignore Early Damage?
- Cracks spread and get deeper with each freeze-thaw cycle
- Potholes form and weaken the surface underneath
- Repairs become much more expensive down the line
What About New Asphalt Surfaces?
Freshly paved areas should not be sealed immediately. Contractors usually wait one to two weather seasons. This gives oils time to escape and the surface to “set.” After this settling, a scheduled seal extends surface life.
Popularity of Asphalt Advanced Services in Colorado Springs
I notice their trucks year after year in the same neighborhoods, which says something about repeat customers. They do not just push one service, but help figure out if both are needed. No hidden upcharges, and scheduling is usually reliable.
Should You Ever Skip Sealing?
If your driveway is almost new, or made of concrete, there is no rush. Also, if deep repairs are still drying or settling, sealing can wait.
Seal Asphalt Colorado Springs CO: What If You Wait Too Long?
Older, cracked, or brittle pavement benefits less from new sealer. It may help for a season or two, but real repairs come first. If you think you can “save” an old, broken lot with one coat, chances are it will not work for long.
Finishing Thoughts
Start with honest advice about your pavement. Sealcoating Colorado Springs and asphalt repair Colorado Springs often go together, but knowing when repairs are urgent makes a big difference. Use a contractor who is clear about your real needs, not just rushing to sell a service. Protecting your investment starts with repairs, then a well-applied sealer to keep trouble from coming back.