Recommended Equipment for Applying Asphalt Sealer

SEALER EQUIPMENT NECESSITIES

Of first priority, SealMaster recommends your sealcoating equipment feature an agitation system. Equipment shall have continuous agitation or mixing capabilities to maintain homogenous consistency of pavement sealer mixture throughout the application process.

Properly mixed asphalt sealants will last and perform longer. Using equipment without proper agitation can present problems with application and poor results. It is important to ensure adequate displacement of sand. Uniform sand suspension improves slip resistance of your sealer, a balanced distribution of proper solids and adds to longevity of the coatings in place.

A second component to quality application equipment is the dual diaphragm pump. The proper pump ensures the right amount of pressure for applying sealer. You want the correct pressure to reduce build-up of sealer and be able to handle the sand load of good high solids sealers that are built to last. Another feature you cannot live without is a properly sized basket strainer. Equipment should come with a basket strainer to catch any contaminants and to reduce any tip clogging.

All of these features should be included on any of one of the two primary types of application equipment, whether you are using a squeegee machine or spray tank. No matter if you like spraying sealer or applying with a squeegee machine, hopefully your equipment carries all three features above.

EQUIPMENT OPTIONS AND OTHER FEATURES

Unique features that distinguish a squeegee machine apart from the rest starts with the engine. Preferably the machine comes with a strong diesel engine that can perform under stress such as sealing areas that include hills and inclines. SealMaster squeegee machines are available with Kubota diesel engines that vary in horse power depending on the size of the machine. Another important feature is power steering for ease of maneuvering. Most parking lots are built with curves, obstacles and variances to overcome the lay of the land. A squeegee machine with power steering makes a world of difference. Other bonuses of properly built squeegee machines include fogging systems, rear wheel drive, a user friendly control panel, adjustable rear angling squeegees and optional spray systems to get into tight areas and spray bars.

Components you should look for as useful for spray trailers are many as well. For safety, the trailer should come with a safety break-away system, very important. In terms of performance, a minimum 13 HP engine and an air compressor of 30 SCFM should be on your checklist. Convenience features which can save you time and money include a storage deck for all your tools and accessories, and electric hose reel, and at minimum a 75 foot hose so you are not moving your trailer around too often.

Of course you can apply asphalt sealcoating by hand or use portable units for smaller jobs, but when it comes to larger parking lots, sealing neighborhood streets and working in the heat of the summer, you want equipment such as outlined above to handle the task.