Occasionally, we have customers who requests that we apply the sealcoat to the pavement using a “squeegee” machine rather than the more customary spray application method; usually because there is another contractor bidding the job that applies it in this manner.
The two most common methods for applying seal coat
- A squeegee spreads the seal coat liquid material in an even fashion using a rubber blade and can be done with a machine or by hand.
- Spray application is typically applied with broad head spray equipment on boom arms or using a hand operated sprayer
- using a squeegee can be beneficial, there are limitations to its effectiveness; in fact, it can actually be a detriment to the long term success of the project. Think of your windshield wipers. They act as a squeegee, designed to remove as much liquid as possible from your window. It’s no different with a sealcoat squeegee! A two coat spray application leaves more material on the pavement than using a squeegee.
Should I specify to squeegee or spray seal coating?
Many of us have grown up hearing some version of 'Use the right tool for the job'. This is certainly true for sealcoating. Each method has its purpose and if you use the wrong application method at the wrong phase of the project, chances are you are not going to get the results that you wanted. So we'll look at both options and share how and when we use each. Your preferred service partner for asphalt maintenance should be able to explain the differences and their rationale for each.
Applying seal coat via squeegee can be beneficial, but there are limitations to its effectiveness; in fact, it can actually be a detriment to the long term success of the project. Think of your windshield wipers. They act as a squeegee, designed to remove as much liquid as possible from your window. It’s no different with a sealcoat squeegee! A two coat spray application leaves more material on the pavement than using a squeegee.
Only 2 times to use squeegee to apply sealcoat
There are really only two times I recommend using the squeegee method:
- The first coat of the first time the asphalt is sealed – a squeegee is very effective in getting sealer in all the nooks and crannies of unsealed asphalt – after that coat, sealer ought to be spray applied for maximum coverage and thickness.
- In a confined area where there is a chance for overspray that would cause problems, aesthetically or otherwise.
