10 Feb What type of Asphalt Sealer should I use? Oil-Based, Acrylic, or Emulsion?

What type of Asphalt Sealer should I use? Oil-Based, Acrylic, or Emulsion?

When it comes to protecting and maintaining asphalt surfaces, selecting the right type of sealer is crucial. At Pavement Depot, we offer three primary asphalt sealers: Oil-Based, Acrylic (Water-Based), and Emulsion (Water-Based). Each has unique characteristics, making them suitable for different applications. Below, we break down the pros, cons, equipment needed, and best uses for each type.

1. Oil-Based Asphalt Sealer

Oil-based sealer has been a go-to choice for residential driveways in Canada for many years, offering a shiny black finish and good durability. It’s easy to apply and available in both barrels and bulk fill. However, it has a longer drying time and a higher environmental impact.

Oil-based sealers have been used for decades in Canada due to the presence of Mcasphalt and numerous fill locations. However, as each year passes, more and more contractors are making the switch to water-based sealers because of their longevity and environmentally friendly nature.

Key Features:

✔ Finish: Shiny black
✔ Dry Time: 24 hours before vehicles can drive on it
✔ Longevity: 1-2 years
✔ Environmental Impact: High (contains solvents and VOCs)
✔ Flammable: Yes
✔ TDG Required: Yes (for large volumes)
✔ Dilution Required: No
✔ Bulk Fill Cost: $2.50-$2.80/L
✔ Coverage: 10,000-11,000 sq. ft. per barrel (12-14 driveways)
✔ Cost per Barrel: $600-$620
✔ Material Cost: 6¢/sq. ft.
✔ What to Charge per Sq. Ft.: 30-40¢

Equipment Needed to Apply Oil-Based Sealer:

To properly apply oil-based sealer, you need a Pro 100 or Pro 200 Oil-Based Sealer Unit, which comes equipped with:
✔ Honda motor for reliable power
✔ Albany pump specifically designed to handle oil-based, BlackMac, or cutback sealers
✔ Spray wand and hose system for controlled and even application

This setup ensures consistent coverage and prevents clogging, making it the go-to choice for contractors using oil-based sealers.

Pros:

✅ Easy to spray
✅ No dilution required
✅ Water-resistant and durable
✅ Available in barrels and bulk fills

Cons:

❌ Long drying time (24 hours)
❌ High environmental impact
❌ Residential use only

2. Acrylic (Water-Based) Asphalt Sealer

Acrylic sealer is a high-quality water-based alternative that dries quickly and is environmentally friendly. It provides a dark black finish, making it an excellent choice for residential driveways. However, it is only available in barrels and requires the proper equipment for application.

Key Features:

✔ Finish: Dark black
✔ Dry Time: 1-2 hours before vehicles can drive on it
✔ Longevity: 2 years
✔ Environmental Impact: Low (water-based)
✔ Flammable: No
✔ TDG Required: No
✔ Dilution Required: No
✔ Bulk Fill Cost: N/A
✔ Coverage: 11,000-12,000 sq. ft. per barrel (13-15 driveways)
✔ Cost per Barrel: $470-$490
✔ Material Cost: 4¢/sq. ft.
✔ What to Charge per Sq. Ft.: 35-45¢

Equipment Needed to Apply Acrylic Sealer:

Applying acrylic sealer requires a Pro 100A Acrylic Sealer Unit, which includes:
✔ Honda motor for power and reliability
✔ Imovilli pump, designed to handle acrylic sealers without breakdown or clogging
✔ Spray system with correctly sized nozzles to ensure smooth and even application

This specialized setup is crucial for preventing streaks and ensuring smooth application of acrylic-based asphalt sealers.

Pros:

✅ Fast drying time (1-2 hours)
✅ Environmentally friendly
✅ Easy to spray
✅ Dark black finish

Cons:

❌ Residential use only
❌ Only available in barrels

3. Emulsion (Water-Based) Asphalt Sealer

Emulsion sealer is the most cost-effective and long-lasting option, making it ideal for both residential and commercial applications. It is available in barrels, totes, and bulk fills, providing great flexibility for large jobs. However, it requires dilution and mixing before application, making it more time-consuming for residential use.

Key Features:

✔ Finish: Matte black
✔ Dry Time: 6-8 hours before vehicles can drive on it
✔ Longevity: 2-4 years
✔ Environmental Impact: Low (water-based)
✔ Flammable: No
✔ TDG Required: No
✔ Dilution Required: 20-30% water
✔ Bulk Fill Cost: $1.39-$1.89/L
✔ Coverage: 5,000-6,000 sq. ft. per barrel (6-8 driveways)
✔ Cost per Barrel: $380-$400
✔ Material Cost: 6.5¢/sq. ft.
✔ What to Charge per Sq. Ft.: 40-50¢

Equipment Needed to Apply Emulsion Sealer:

Since emulsion sealer requires water dilution and mixing, a high-capacity, air-operated sealing unit is recommended. The ideal setup includes:
✔ Compressor-powered system for efficient spraying
✔ Diaphragm pump, designed for handling water-based sealers
✔ Agitation/mixing system to keep the sealer properly blended throughout application
✔ Spray wand system for precise coverage

This setup ensures the emulsion stays well-mixed, applies evenly, and provides the best adhesion for long-term performance.

Pros:

✅ Longest lifespan (2-4 years)
✅ Lowest cost per barrel/litre
✅ Can be used for residential and commercial applications
✅ Available in barrels, totes, and bulk fills

Cons:

❌ Time-consuming to apply on residential jobs
❌ Needs dilution with water and mixing before application

Which Asphalt Sealer is Best for You?

✔ Choose Oil-Based Sealer if you want an easy-to-spray, durable sealer and don’t mind a longer drying time and higher environmental impact, for residential use only.

✔ Choose Acrylic Sealer if you need a fast-drying, easy-to-spray, eco-friendly option with a dark black finish, but don’t require bulk fill availability, for residential use only.

✔ Choose Emulsion Sealer if you need a cost-effective, long-lasting solution for both residential and commercial use, and don’t mind the extra preparation time.

At Pavement Depot, we supply high-quality asphalt sealers, equipment, and expert advice to help you get the job done right. Contact us today to place your order!

📞 Call: 1-866-595-2308
📧 Email: [email protected]
📍 49 Front Street, New Dundee, ON