At DRYCO, we know that sealcoating isn’t just about curb appeal, it’s a critical part of parking lot maintenance and pavement preservation. A properly applied parking lot seal coat protects asphalt pavement from oxidation, water damage, oil spots, and chemical spills, extending the service life of your commercial parking lot and reducing long-term repair costs. But to get the most out of your sealcoat application, you need to know your square footage.
Underestimating can lead to thin coverage and premature wear, while overestimating inflates your budget unnecessarily. That’s where Google Maps comes in.
How to Measure Your Lot with Google Maps
To help DRYCO accurately plan your sealcoating project, you can use Google Maps to measure the size of your parking lot. Here’s how:
Step 1: Open Google Maps
Go to Google Maps and enter your property’s address.
Step 2: Switch to Satellite View
Click the “Layers” icon in the bottom left corner and select “Satellite” for a clear aerial view of your parking lot.
Step 3: Measure the Perimeter
Right-click on one corner of your lot and choose “Measure distance.” Then, click around the perimeter of your asphalt parking lot to create a closed shape.
Step 4: Note the Total Area
After completing the shape, Google Maps will display the total square footage (or square meters) at the bottom of the screen.
Step 5: Share Your Measurement with DRYCO
Provide your measurement to DRYCO to assist in accurate material estimation and project planning.
Pro Tips from DRYCO
- Account for islands, curbs, and landscaping: Subtract these areas from your total to avoid overestimating.
- Measure in sections: If your lot has multiple zones or irregular shapes, break it into smaller sections and add them together.
- Consult with DRYCO professionals: While Google Maps helps with initial measurements, DRYCO’s experts will verify and finalize measurements during their site visit to ensure precision.
Why Sealcoating Is Worth It
At DRYCO, we recommend asphalt sealcoating every 3–5 years depending on traffic volume and weather conditions. Sealcoating is one of the most cost-effective ways to protect your asphalt pavement from UV rays, water damage, and oil spills, maintain a professional appearance, and extend the service life of your parking lot. Learn more about the benefits of parking lot sealcoating at DRYCO.
By providing accurate measurements using Google Maps, you’re helping DRYCO deliver the best service possible, from planning and budgeting to expert sealcoat application.
Understanding Parking Lot Sealcoat Basics
Before your project begins, it’s important to understand what a parking lot seal coat is and why it matters. A seal coat is a protective layer applied to asphalt surfaces to shield them from environmental damage such as sunlight, rain, and chemical spills. This protective barrier helps prevent oxidation, which causes asphalt to become brittle and crack over time.
Preparing Your Parking Lot for Sealcoating
DRYCO’s professional team will handle all surface preparation, including:
- Thorough cleaning to remove debris, dirt, oil spots, and loose material.
- Repairing cracks and potholes with appropriate materials to ensure a smooth, even surface.
- Treating oil spots with primer to ensure proper sealcoat adhesion.
- Blocking off traffic during application and curing to avoid damage.
Benefits of Accurate Measurement for Your Sealcoat Project
Providing accurate measurements leads to:
- Proper estimation of sealcoat material needed, preventing waste or shortage.
- More precise budgeting and cost control.
- Efficient scheduling and project planning.
- Better communication with contractors and suppliers.
How Often Should You Sealcoat Your Parking Lot?
Sealcoating frequency depends on factors such as traffic volume, weather conditions, and surface condition. Generally, commercial parking lots benefit from sealcoating every 2 to 4 years to maintain protection and appearance.
Signs Your Parking Lot Needs Sealcoating
Look for these indicators:
- Surface color fading from black to gray.
- Small cracks appearing on the surface.
- Water pooling or drainage issues.
- Oil stains and chemical damage.
- Rough or brittle texture.
The Role of Regular Maintenance in Parking Lot Longevity
Sealcoating is part of a broader maintenance strategy that includes crack filling, pothole repair, and cleaning. Regular maintenance helps prevent costly repairs and extends the life of your asphalt pavement.
How Weather Conditions Affect Sealcoat Application
Ideal conditions for sealcoating include temperatures above 50°F with low humidity and no rain forecasted for at least 24 hours. Cold or wet weather can affect adhesion and curing times, leading to suboptimal results.
Working with DRYCO Professionals
DRYCO brings experience, equipment, and expertise to ensure a quality sealcoat job. Our team provides accurate measurements, recommends the best sealcoat product for your lot, and carries out proper surface preparation and application for long lasting results.
Environmental Considerations in Sealcoating
DRYCO offers eco-friendly sealcoat products, such as asphalt emulsion and polymer-modified sealers, to reduce environmental impact. Coal tar sealers are only used where permitted and appropriate.
Enhancing Curb Appeal with Sealcoating
A fresh seal coat not only protects your parking lot but also restores its rich black color, improving the overall look of your property. This can enhance customer impressions and increase property value.
Taking the Next Steps
By measuring your parking lot using Google Maps and sharing the data with DRYCO, you’re taking an important step toward a successful sealcoat project. From there, DRYCO’s professionals will handle the rest, ensuring your asphalt pavement is protected and looks great for years to come.
Ready to Protect and Enhance Your Parking Lot?
Don’t wait for cracks to worsen, contact DRYCO today for expert sealcoat application tailored to your commercial parking lot, driveways, or new projects. We provide durable, high quality pavement sealer solutions that improve safety and curb appeal.
Get your free estimate now! Schedule your consultation and extend the life and beauty of your asphalt surfaces.
Frequently Asked Questions About Asphalt Maintenance
What is a parking lot seal coat?
A parking lot seal coat is a protective layer applied to asphalt surfaces to shield them from environmental damage such as UV rays, water, oil spots, and chemical spills. This layer helps prevent oxidation, which causes asphalt to become brittle and crack over time.
How often should a commercial parking lot be seal coated?
Typically, commercial parking lots benefit from sealcoating every 3 to 5 years. However, the frequency can vary depending on factors like traffic volume, weather conditions, and the current condition of the pavement.
Can sealcoating fix cracks and potholes?
No, sealcoating is not a repair for existing cracks or potholes. These issues should be properly fixed with crack filling and pothole repair before applying a seal coat to ensure a smooth and durable surface.
What are the different types of sealers used in parking lot sealcoating?
There are two different types commonly used: coal tar-based sealers, which offer superior resistance to oil, gas, and chemicals but have environmental restrictions, and asphalt-based sealers, which are more environmentally friendly, cure faster, and have less odor.
How do weather conditions affect sealcoat application?
Ideal conditions for sealcoating include temperatures consistently above 50°F, low humidity,