Asphalt sealcoating machines are essential equipment for maintaining the condition of your asphalt surfaces. Whether you own a small driveway or a large commercial property, your sealcoating machine needs to be functional and in good condition to ensure efficient and effective operation.
To ensure that your asphalt sealcoating machine is in good shape to serve its intended purpose, there are certain things that you need to do. Here are some tips on what you need to get your asphalt sealcoating machine ready.
Source the Right Asphalt Sealcoating Equipment
To get your asphalt sealcoating business ready, you need to ensure that you have the right sealcoating equipment for the job. There are different types of sealcoating machines, including hand-operated, tow-behind, and skid-mounted machines. You need to select the equipment that is most suitable for your project.
For instance, if you need to sealcoat a small driveway, a hand-operated machine may be the ideal choice. However, for large-scale commercial jobs, a tow-behind or skid-mounted machine may be more efficient.
How to Prepare Your Asphalt Sealcoating Machine
Before using your asphalt sealcoating machine, you need to prepare it appropriately to ensure optimal performance. Here are some steps for preparing your machine:
• Clean the Machine: Clean the machine thoroughly to remove any debris and dirt. This ensures that the machine works efficiently and that contaminants don’t degrade the sealcoat.
• Inspect for Damage and Wear: Check the machine for any damage or wear and tear. Replace any worn out or damaged parts to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
• Make Necessary Repairs and Replacements: Repair or replace any faulty parts identified during inspection, such as hoses, spray tips or pumps. These repairs ensure the machine is running optimally while reducing downtime.
What You Need To Get Your Machine Ready
Apart from having the right equipment and preparing the machine, here are other things that you need to have to get your asphalt sealcoating machine ready:
• Adequate Fuel: Ensure that your machine has sufficient fuel to complete the job. Always keep some extra fuel, Propane or Diesel, on standby for emergencies.
• The Right Mix of Aggregates for Functionality: Follow recommended specifications while preparing the sealcoat and ensure that the right mix of aggregates is included for optimal functionality.
• Solvent-Based Protection Coating: Apply a solvent-based protection coating to the machine to protect it from external elements and to prolong the lifespan of the machine.
Tips on Using Your Asphalt Sealcoating Machine
Once you’ve sourced the right equipment, prepared the machine, and assembled all the necessary ingredients, you need to use your asphalt sealcoating machine properly. Here are a few helpful tips:
• Maintain Appropriate Temperatures in Hot Weather: Hot weather can dry out the sealcoat before it’s properly spread. Ensure that the temperature is not too hot before applying the sealcoat.
• Ensure Adequate Water Supply and Pressure: Your machine needs a constant flow of water to spray the sealcoat effectively. Ensure that your water supply is adequate and set water pressure as required.
• Monitor the Flow Rate When Spraying: Monitor the flow rate when spraying. This ensures optimal coverage and helps distribute the sealcoat evenly.
