If you have an asphalt driveway, now's the time to apply the sealant. You might not realize this, but summer can wreak havoc on your asphalt—especially if you don't take steps to prevent the damage. That's where seal coating comes in handy. Here are four reasons why you need to seal your driveway before summer arrives. 

1. Rain

When summer arrives, so do the rainstorms. When they do, you need to make sure your driveway has the protection it needs. Rain is one of the biggest problems your asphalt parking lot faces. Because asphalt is porous, it can absorb water. This is especially true if the asphalt isn't sealed. If there are cracks in the asphalt, it can absorb even more water. Once asphalt absorbs water, then a couple of different problems arise. First, the water pools under the asphalt and causes erosion. Second, the water loosens the asphalt, causing your driveway to crumble. An application of sealant stops the rain damage. 

2. Wind

When you think of asphalt damage, wind might not come to mind. If you're not prepared for the effects of wind, your driveway is at risk. Strong winds pick up sand and debris. As the sand blows across your driveway, it chips away at the asphalt. In fact, it can almost sandblast your driveway. This is especially true if your driveway hasn't been seal coated because the loose pieces of asphalt get exposed to the wind. Avoid wind damage. Apply seal coating before the summer wind storms arrive. 

3. Sunlight

When the summer heat arrives, your asphalt driveway may suffer the consequences. Heat is especially harmful to asphalt. In fact, extreme heat causes the asphalt to melt. It can also cause the asphalt to buckle and crack. When that happens, there's nothing to do but repair the damage. Unfortunately, asphalt repairs are often quite costly. Luckily, you can protect your asphalt driveway from summer heat damage. Talk to your paving contractor about asphalt sealing. 

4. Car Repairs

When the temperatures warm up, you may spend more time working on your car. If those repairs take place on your driveway, be ready with the protection. Car fluids can do considerable damage to your asphalt. A fresh layer of sealant helps stop the damage. That way, you can work on your car without the worry.

These are just a few summertime concerns that can ruin your driveway. Contact asphalt sealing companies to learn more about addressing these issues.