What Can an Accident Lawyer Do For You?

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Often, people get conflicting advice about what to do after a car accident. Best Accident Lawyer Duluth can help you sort through all of the information and provide guidance.

Lawyer

Your lawyer will start by obtaining evidence to prove how the accident occurred and the extent of your injuries. This can include police reports, medical records, photos of the accident scene, and more.

One of the most crucial things an accident lawyer can do for a client is to help collect and preserve evidence. This can include physical objects, such as shoes or the data event recorder on a car’s computer (which might show road conditions or weather that contributed to the accident). It also includes obtaining official documents, such as police reports or workplace incident reports, which offer an authoritative account of what happened.

In addition to official documents and third-party testimonies, accident lawyers will often encourage their clients to keep a journal after an accident. These notes can provide a first-hand account of the accident’s circumstances, as well as the extent of a victim’s injuries and the emotional trauma that has ensued.

Witness statements are another key piece of evidence that an accident lawyer will gather as soon as possible while the witnesses’ memories remain fresh. Their testimony can corroborate the victim’s account of the incident, helping to establish liability and fault. It can also serve to help quantify a victim’s losses, such as lost income, out-of-pocket expenses, and future medical care needs.

In some cases, it may be necessary to seek the services of expert witnesses. These experts can offer specialized insights into the incident, such as medical professionals who can discuss how an injury has affected a patient’s life or accident reconstructionists who can explain the mechanics of a crash.

Accident lawyers will also obtain bills to document the financial burdens that an accident has imposed on victims, such as hefty hospital bills or the cost of hiring a babysitter for children who have become too injured to attend school. They can also work with employment records and pay stubs to make a case for how much a victim has been unable to earn because of their injuries, ensuring that they receive full compensation for all their losses.

Damages will vary depending on the severity of a victim’s injuries, but they will all depend on the availability of compelling evidence. An accident attorney can collect, organize, and present this evidence in a convincing manner to secure maximum compensation for their client.

Developing a Strong Case

Car accidents are frightening and stressful experiences that can leave injury victims with a mountain of bills from medical treatments, time missed at work, property damage and other costs. A skilled accident lawyer can help their clients navigate the complicated process of claiming compensation by building a strong case supported by sufficient evidence. This is the key to successfully negotiating with an insurance company or taking the matter to court.

To strengthen a client’s case, an attorney will review incident reports and other documentation that provides valuable details about the crash. This includes police documentation that captures the names of those involved, their vehicle make and model, driver’s license plate numbers and other relevant information, and witness statements that establish what happened. They will also analyze the extent of the injuries sustained and calculate the financial impact of those injuries.

In addition, lawyers will assess the adequacy of the at-fault party’s policy limits to cover any potential damages. They will also consider proximate cause by linking the actions of the defendant to the injury and evaluating comparative negligence laws to determine how a victim’s share of liability affects his or her claim.

They will also use expert opinions to strengthen their client’s position. This may include hiring a reconstruction specialist to recreate the scene of the crash and what caused it, as well as seeking testimony from experts in medical care, accident analysis, finance or other fields. These specialists offer professional insights that strengthen the credibility of a case and increase the likelihood of winning a favorable settlement or a ruling from the court.

The attorneys will research Pennsylvania’s negligence and other statute laws to decide how to frame their arguments in negotiations or court proceedings. This enables them to make informed choices about how to present evidence, including which documents to submit and what legal theories to pursue in a lawsuit. For example, a lawyer will know how much time a victim has to file a suit against the at-fault party, based on state law and any extensions that apply (e.g., for minors or those who are incapacitated).

Injured victims should keep all documentation related to the accident and their injuries, as it may prove helpful to a case. For example, it can be beneficial to save pay stubs and other proof of time lost at work as well as receipts for any durable medical equipment used to treat an injury.

Negotiating a Fair Settlement

As a victim of a car accident, you may be entitled to compensation for many different types of damages. Some of these include property damage, medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. An experienced accident lawyer can help you determine the value of your case and negotiate a fair settlement.

A significant portion of a car accident settlement is intended to cover the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle and any other damaged property. The amount you are entitled to receive for property damage will depend on the extent of your injuries and the value of your vehicle. Your accident attorney will be able to explain the various factors that go into determining the actual value of your property and what you should expect in a settlement offer.

In addition to property damage, the amount of your settlement may also be based on the extent of your injuries and their long-term impact on your life. Injuries may have a profound effect on your ability to work and enjoy the activities that are important to you. Consequently, you should seek comprehensive medical treatment after a car accident. This will ensure that your injuries are fully understood and able to be articulated during negotiations. An experienced accident lawyer can also help you calculate the value of your non-economic damages. The most common method is to add up your economic damages and then multiply them by a number between 1.5-5, depending on factors such as the severity of your injuries, the likelihood of full recovery, and any permanent or disfiguring effects.

When negotiating a settlement, you must be prepared to make concessions to get the best results. Your accident attorney will be able to guide you in preparing for these discussions and assist you in preparing counteroffers. He or she will have a thorough understanding of your legal rights and responsibilities, as well as California law.

A successful negotiation will likely result in a settlement. However, if a settlement cannot be reached, the matter may proceed to court for a judge or jury to decide the final outcome.

Representing You in Court

If the insurance company for the at-fault party or their legal team offers a settlement that is not fair, our attorneys will file a lawsuit to secure the full compensation you deserve. We are also prepared to pursue punitive damages in cases of particularly reckless or intentional behavior by the at-fault party.

The first step in building a strong case is documenting and quantifying your injuries and losses. Our lawyers will review your medical records, accident reports, and any available video footage of the crash. They will also enlist the help of experts to help rewind the tape and figure out what happened in your case. We know how important it is to get medical attention after a car accident, but many victims do not receive the treatment they need right away. This leaves them vulnerable to future complications, infections and even death, and can weaken their case by demonstrating that they did not seek immediate medical attention as a result of the crash. Our attorneys will ensure that you seek the care that you need, and can bolster your claim by demonstrating causation and linking specific injuries to their cause.

Attorneys will also help you determine the maximum amount of compensation you should be entitled to, based on your financial and non-financial losses. For example, our legal professionals will calculate the cost of your lost wages if your injury keeps you from working, and your current and future medical expenses to ensure that all of your losses are taken into account. We will also consider your loss of enjoyment of life and other intangible damages, such as emotional distress.

Finally, our attorneys will handle all communication with the insurance companies and at-fault parties on your behalf to prevent you from accidentally compromising your case by saying something that could be used against you. Our legal teams are skilled negotiators who work to make sure that you receive the highest possible compensation for your claims. They will also explore uninsured motorist coverage in hit-and-run accidents, if applicable.

Costs of Deck Repair

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Decks take a beating from sunlight, rain, snow and other elements. Deterioration is to be expected, but regular inspections allow homeowners to spot problems and make necessary repairs.

Deck

Minor cracks and popped nails are easy fixes for homeowners with basic DIY experience. However, if a deck is severely damaged or unsafe, a replacement is usually a better option. For professional help, contact Stafford VA Deck Builders.

Deck repair costs can be expensive, depending on the scope of the work required and the deck’s materials. The location of the deck, whether in an urban or rural area, also influences labor and material costs. Homeowners should factor in any applicable taxes or fees that may be added to the total cost of the project. It is also wise to consider any additional features or customizations that might be needed, such as railings, misters, pergolas, and kitchens, since these will increase the overall price of the project.

Often, the first sign that it is time to repair or replace a deck is splintering or cracking. If these issues have become widespread, a professional can help resolve them by repairing or replacing affected boards and re-staining the surface of the deck. In many cases, these types of repairs are not costly and will restore the deck to a safe level.

Another common issue that might necessitate a deck repair is rot. This is a serious structural problem that can affect the safety and integrity of the deck. Often, rot is caused by water or moisture soaking into the wood and damaging it. It can spread quickly, requiring extensive and costly repairs to the deck. In some cases, it might be more cost-effective to replace the entire deck than to spend hundreds or even thousands of dollars attempting to repair and save a damaged one.

If a deck is sagging or uneven, it is not safe to use and requires professional attention. This type of problem could be caused by rotting, weakened joist hangers, or other structural problems that can’t be addressed through repair. In these cases, a professional can help determine whether or not a replacement is necessary and make recommendations to ensure a safe deck.

Other indicators that a deck needs a repair or replacement include a spongy feel underfoot or soft areas where the deck is located. It is also important to look for corroded joist hangers, which could indicate that the supporting beams are in need of repair or replacement.

Materials

As with any home improvement project, the cost of materials can significantly increase the price of a deck repair. This is particularly true for larger projects, such as resurfacing and replacing the deck boards or building a new railing system. For these reasons, it is important to compare quotes from different contractors and ask for discounts. Some companies may offer military or senior discounts, while others will provide a discount for buying in bulk. If you can, shop around to find the best deal on decking materials.

Aside from the cost of materials, there are other costs to consider when repairing a deck. These include the cost of demolition and disposal fees. In some cases, it may be cheaper to replace the entire deck instead of repairing the individual parts of the structure. This is especially true if the damage is extensive or the structure is unstable.

The most common reason for rot is water damage, which can be caused by a variety of factors. Even pretreated wood can rot from prolonged exposure to moisture. If the rot is not repaired right away, it can spread quickly and lead to structural damage. Another common cause of rot is a nail or screw that has been driven into pressure-treated wood. These metals are susceptible to oxidation and can create a chemical reaction that rots the surrounding area.

In addition to the costs of materials, homeowners should also consider the cost of any applicable taxes or fees. This can vary from state to state, so it is important to research the specific requirements for your location before beginning a deck repair project. Some areas require permits, while others do not.

While composite decking is a durable material, it can still be scratched by items such as garden furniture or pets. In many cases, these scratches can be repaired using composite decking filler or wax. However, some scratches and gauges may be too severe to be fixed with these methods. In this case, the Board will need to be replaced.

When repairing Composite Boards, it is recommended that you test the colour of the repair product before proceeding. Mix a small amount of the dry repair material with water and compare it to your wet existing surface. This will allow you to match the colour and make sure it blends in well.

Design

When it comes to deck repair, there are many options available. However, you may be unsure about whether it’s more cost-effective to go with repairs or to replace your entire deck. Choosing the right option can help you save money and extend your deck’s lifespan.

The best way to determine which option is better for you is to assess the current condition of your deck. A common problem is moisture damage, which can lead to splintering, cracking, or warping. If you notice any of these problems, it’s time to contact a professional for deck repair.

Another problem that indicates it’s time for deck repair is unstable footings. This is often caused by soil erosion and may be a result of frost heave or excessively wet soil conditions. Deck repair professionals can help you reduce soil erosion and divert water flow to prevent footing instability.

You can also determine if your deck is due for a reseal by testing its ability to retain moisture. To test this, sprinkle a little water on your deck and watch to see if it beads or soaks in. If it does, it’s time to reseal your deck.

Another sign that it’s time for a reseal is if your deck boards are starting to show signs of fading or discoloration. This usually occurs with wooden decks and can be repaired by re-painting or re-staining. However, if the damage is severe and widespread, it’s likely best to replace your deck to ensure safety and compliance with building codes.

One last issue that could indicate a need for deck repair is damage to the ledger board, which attaches your deck to your home. This is a serious safety concern and can cause major structural issues if not addressed immediately.

A good deck repair should include a full clean to remove dust, mildew, and other debris. This is essential to allow you to get a clear view of any issues that might be hiding under dirt and clutter. You should also replace any missing or faulty fasteners. Using modern, composite or PVC fasteners can help ensure that your deck will be safe and secure for years to come.

Installation

A deck is a great addition to any home, but it requires regular maintenance to keep it in good shape. When the deck starts to deteriorate, it may need to be replaced entirely. Luckily, deck repair is often less expensive than a replacement, and it is more effective at improving the appearance of a deck. Some of the most common issues include splinters, discoloration, and mold growth. However, minor damage can be resolved by cleaning and staining the affected areas.

One of the most common signs that a deck needs repair is if its wood support posts or beams start to rot. This is a serious issue, because it can affect the structural integrity of the entire deck and even your home.

If the problem is limited to a small section of the deck, it can usually be fixed with a few new support beams and joist hangers. However, if the problem is widespread and you’re concerned about the safety of your deck, it’s probably time to call in an expert.

Another important sign of a damaged deck is if the boards are loose or wobbly. Loose boards are easy to fix by tightening the fasteners and replacing any faulty ones. This can be done in a day or two and is relatively inexpensive.

Some problems with a deck are more severe and require a complete replacement, including a sagging structure and rotting boards. These problems are often the result of a failing deck foundation, and can lead to a collapsed structure. If the deck has been infested with termites, it’s likely that the wood will need to be completely replaced.

The cost of deck repair depends on the severity of the damage and the materials used. Generally, smaller decks made of cheap material are less expensive to repair than larger decks made from more expensive materials. The average square foot cost of a deck repair is $10-$50, and costs vary depending on the type of materials used.

In addition to the cost of repairs, homeowners should be prepared for any applicable taxes and fees. For example, a homeowner who is installing a new deck might be eligible for an energy tax credit. It’s also a good idea to save all receipts for labor and materials, as these can be claimed as a tax deduction or credit.

Plumbing Safety First – Ensuring Compliance With Regulations and Standards

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Plumbing Safety First Ensuring Compliance with Regulations and Standards

Despite the seemingly harmless nature of fixing a leaky pipe or unclogging a toilet, plumbing is dangerous work. Practicing safety standards and ensuring compliance with regulations prevents injuries, accidents, and legal repercussions.

Ensuring compliance as a plumbing business requires health and safety policies, training, and tools. Keeping your team of Plumber in Akron up-to-date on the latest safety topics can protect their wellbeing and your business reputation.

Training

As plumbing professionals, you deal with many potential hazards on a daily basis. From minor cuts to burns to electric shock, proper training and protocol can help you prevent these issues. You’ll also be better prepared to respond and handle any emergency situation that may arise.

Every job comes with its own set of risks, and a successful plumbing company takes care of its team and clients. This requires a strong commitment to safety, and this can only be achieved through regular training sessions.

Essential plumbing safety topics include hazard awareness, material handling, and emergency response. By educating your employees on these key topics, you can protect them and ensure the success of your business.

The Occupational Health and Safety Administration provides guidance for all tradespeople, but there are some specific safety rules plumbers should follow. For example, you must use personal protective equipment to protect your eyes, skin, and lungs from hazardous materials. This includes gloves to protect your hands, goggles to keep your eyes free of wastewater and dust, a face mask to filter contaminants out of the air, and other gear.

You’ll also need to know how to handle the materials you’re working with, including reading and understanding Safety Data Sheets. You should also be familiar with the proper way to dispose of these chemicals to avoid environmental damage and prevent potential illness or injury to your team members.

Scaffolding safety is another critical area for plumbers, as they often work at heights to access hard-to-reach places. You should be trained in how to use scaffolding safely, as well as the proper methods for assembling and dismantling it.

Plumbing contractors also face unique challenges when working in confined spaces, such as crawl spaces and basements. To minimize these hazards, you should have training on how to enter and exit confined spaces as well as how to use personal protective equipment.

In addition to general safety training, your plumbing company should have a written health and safety policy and procedures. It should also perform risk assessments on all manual handling operations that might cause injury to its staff and record the results. This ensures that you comply with the Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992, and it demonstrates to your employees that you are committed to their wellbeing.

Equipment

One of the most important things for plumbers to do is make sure they are using the right equipment for the job. This will prevent injuries and accidents. For instance, using a tool for something it wasn’t designed for can lead to sprains, burns, and other serious injuries.

It is also important for plumbing professionals to be familiar with the proper safety protocols for their work environment. This is especially true for environments where they might be exposed to chemicals, sewage, or hazardous materials. It is also important to be familiar with the governing bodies that set safety standards for their industry. In the UK, this is the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), while in the US it is the Occupational Safety and Health Administration or OSHA.

There are certain personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements that are specific to plumbers, such as eye protection for flying debris or chemical splashes, heavy-duty gloves for gripping and cutting, a face mask for sanding or sawing, and respiratory protection in areas where there might be biohazards like sewage. Other PPE might include steel-toed boots, a hard hat, and hearing protection for loud machines.

Plumbing work involves hazards, no matter the kind of project. The risk of injury or disease is real, from minor cuts and bruises to serious burns and electric shock. As a result, it is vital for plumbing professionals to understand and follow all safety regulations.

This is especially true for plumbing businesses, which must have a clear health and safety policy, ensure that all employees understand it, and keep up-to-date records in line with the RIDDOR Regulations. In addition, they should have a plan for dealing with emergencies and properly disposing of hazardous materials.

The PHCC Insurance, Safety, and Risk Management Committee is committed to helping members stay safe on the job. That’s why they work closely with the governing bodies that provide safety guidelines for plumbers. By adhering to these rules, plumbing professionals can avoid accidents and ensure the best results for their customers. This helps keep homes safe and comfortable for residents, while ensuring that plumbing services can be performed without the need for costly repairs or replacements.

Confined Spaces

The construction industry is constantly changing on a daily basis and the plumbing world is no exception. With new safety regulations being introduced on a regular basis, it is important for plumbers to take the time to learn about the standards and protocols that need to be followed for a safe work environment. It also is important to stay connected with your local associations and follow their social media channels for the latest information on the new requirements that are coming into effect.

One of the most dangerous types of workplace environments is a confined space. These are defined as areas that have limited means of entry or exit, are not designed for continuous occupancy, and can pose hazardous conditions, such as insufficient oxygen levels and air contaminants. In these situations, workers can suffer severe injuries, including entrapment and death due to asphyxiation and toxic chemical exposure.

This can include areas like sewer and water manholes, tanks and storage containers, silos, ducts, hoppers, boilers, utility tunnels, and more. They can be found in a wide variety of settings, including industrial facilities, commercial buildings, hospitals, and even farms.

There is no such thing as a “safe” confined space, so it is vital that any worker who will be entering one receives the proper training and equipment to mitigate the risks involved. This includes a permit system for entry, testing the atmosphere for unsafe levels of gasses and oxygen, and having an emergency rescue plan in place that includes specialized breathing apparatuses to ensure that a worker can be removed quickly and safely.

The most significant hazard in a confined space is the lack of oxygen, but other hazards can include the presence of chemicals and hazardous materials, such as lead or asbestos. In addition, a lack of ventilation can allow dangerous gases to accumulate in the workspace, and if they aren’t released or ventilated quickly, they can become deadly. A recent incident at a casino in Las Vegas, Nevada, saw two people killed and several others injured when hydrogen sulfide (H2S) poisoning caused by a sewage spill overran the area.

Emergency Preparedness

There’s no doubt that plumbing work involves a host of hazards. Whether they’re snaking a line in an underground sewer system or soldering pipes on a new water heater, plumbers face physical injury risks, such as cuts and burns; chemical exposure, including to caustic materials and harmful gases like hydrogen sulfide from raw sewage; and hazardous material handling, such as disposing of toxic waste.

The good news is that most of these risks can be avoided if plumbers follow a few key safety tips. By taking these precautions, they can protect themselves, their customers, and their crew members.

For starters, it’s important for every home to have a plumbing protection plan in place. This includes knowing the location of all shut-off valves and ensuring that they’re working properly, so homeowners can turn off water flow in an emergency. It’s also a good idea to keep a plumbing emergency kit in the home, complete with tools such as pipe wrenches and plumber’s tape, as well as a bucket to catch leaky water.

Another critical element of plumbing safety is educating children on the dangers of playing with or touching pipes and plumbing fixtures, which can cause scalding injuries. To minimize these dangers, families can install child-proof showerheads and faucets, and they should instruct children to always use the bathroom sink for bathing rather than drinking or washing hands in it.

Finally, every plumber should keep a supply of personal protective equipment (PPE) in the truck or tool bag, and it should be regularly cleaned and maintained. This should include gloves, eye protection, and a face mask to prevent inhaling caustic chemicals or dangerous fumes. In addition, plumbers should carry a first aid kit to treat minor injuries and have a copy of the latest PHCC insurance coverage policies to protect themselves against workplace accidents and liability.

Putting safety first isn’t just a recommendation for plumbers; it’s the foundation of a successful and sustainable career. By following these plumbing safety guidelines, professionals can reduce the risk of injury, minimize damage, and provide expert guidance to their customers.

Preparing Your Asphalt For Sealcoating

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Sealcoating is an inexpensive way to dramatically extend the life of your asphalt driveway or parking lot. It restores the deep black appearance and forms a protective barrier against UV rays, water, oil and other oxidizing substances.

Sealcoating

Before sealcoating, fix any damage in the pavement. Untreated damage will only get worse, requiring expensive repairs.

The preparation process for sealcoating is a critical step to ensuring success. The surface must be free of oil, chemicals, gasoline and other petroleum-based substances that can interfere with the sealer. This can be done with power washing and sweeping equipment, or a blower. If these fluids are left on the pavement surface, they can damage the bond between the asphalt and the new coating.

Before applying the sealer, it is important to choose a high quality product and mix it according to the manufacturer’s specifications. This is especially true for sand-based sealcoating mixes, as they require constant agitation to maintain consistency and prevent clumping. The sand also helps add texture to the surface, making it less slippery. This is an additional benefit that can reduce liability in parking lots, where slippery surfaces can lead to accidents and injuries.

The process of sealcoating is most effective on asphalt surfaces in good condition. It will not repair or restore cracks or dry patches of asphalt, so these areas should be repaired before the sealing process begins. The seal coat should be applied in layers that are thick enough to protect the asphalt from sunlight and moisture. If the sealcoat is applied too thin, it will allow the sun’s UV rays to penetrate and degrade the asphalt binder.

Sealcoating also helps to improve the visual appeal of your driveway or parking lot. Over time, the sun can make asphalt appear washed out and gray. Seal coating will help to restore the asphalt’s deep black appearance and will also protect the pavement from moisture and oxidizing substances.

Unsealed asphalt can become brittle and crumble, leading to potholes. Sealcoating will help to block out elements that cause oxidation, such as water and motor oil, and can keep the asphalt binder flexible for a longer period of time. This will help to prevent the formation of potholes, which can be extremely dangerous for pedestrians and vehicles. It is recommended that you have your pavement sealed every few years, in order to maintain the best possible function and visual appearance.

Application

Before a contractor can begin the sealcoating process, they must first assess the asphalt surface. They look for oil stains, cracks, potholes, and other areas of damage that need immediate repairing. After the assessment is complete, they must block off the area that will be treated and clear the pavement of any debris using brooms or blowers. A thoroughly cleaned surface will allow the sealant to bond properly with the asphalt.

During this time, the crew should also fill any potholes in the asphalt with an asphalt patch material before applying the sealcoat. Once the patching is done, it’s important to wait 24 hours before driving over the area again. The sealcoat will take this period of time to dry and cure, dependent on weather conditions.

The next step is to mix the sealcoat material. The contractors can choose to spray the product or squeegee it onto the pavement. Both methods have their pros and cons, but spraying is more efficient since the crew can cover larger areas in a fraction of the time it would take them to use a squeegee. However, there’s a chance that the spray method could cause the crew to miss spots and apply a thinner coat.

There are two types of sealcoat materials: coal tar-based and asphalt emulsion-based. The former is more durable, but it can be environmentally hazardous and has legality issues in some regions. The latter is safer and is a combination of asphalt cement and water. It also contains additives that help it resist oxidation, water damage, and other elements.

As the sealcoat dries, it creates an invisible barrier over the asphalt that protects the surface from harmful environmental factors. It also helps to stop the sun’s UV rays from deteriorating the asphalt. It will slow down oxidation, extend the life of the asphalt, and keep it looking new for a long time.

The sealcoat is usually applied in two coats and requires a minimum of 24 hours to dry. After the drying and curing process, it’s important to protect the newly-applied sealcoat from traffic, rain, dirt, and chemicals. Regular maintenance will prolong the life of the sealcoat, including periodic resealing and repairs.

Maintenance

Seal coating is a cost-effective maintenance option for asphalt pavement. It protects against oxidation, stops weather damage and beautifies the surface. A quality sealcoat can extend the life of a driveway or parking lot for years. However, the process is labor intensive and must be done properly. A professional company is best suited for the job.

Pavement needs to be clean and dry to ensure proper adhesion of the seal coat. Effective cleaning methods include blowing and sweeping. However, it may be necessary to use a power washer for stubborn dirt and oil. It’s important to avoid using harsh chemicals that can harm the asphalt.

A properly maintained driveway will increase the value of your home and make it more aesthetically pleasing. It will also reduce the risk of accidents and injury. A slick driveway is dangerous for cars and pedestrians, and seal coat adds friction to the material to help prevent slippage.

The most common reason for applying a seal coat is to restore the appearance of faded asphalt. The sun’s UV rays break down the carbon bonds in asphalt, which causes it to turn gray and wash out over time. A Pittsburgh driveway sealer can restore the pavement’s original, jet black appearance and improve the curb appeal of your property.

Asphalt is a combination of rock and stone and gravel held together with a binder, which is a petroleum-based substance. When this substance degrades, the aggregate becomes brittle and begins to crack. The deterioration of asphalt surfaces can be slow and gradual, but it will eventually cause permanent damage. Sealcoating can prolong the lifespan of asphalt by protecting it from harmful chemicals, rain and UV rays.

Besides beautifying your driveway or parking lot, it can increase the resale value of your home and save you money on fuel costs. It also helps to prevent potholes and other costly damages. To get the most out of your asphalt, it should be sealed every two to three years.

The ideal time to perform a seal coat is during the spring through fall. This is when temperatures are warm and there is a low chance of rain. However, it’s important to check the forecast regularly as conditions can change at any time.

Cost

Sealcoating is a relatively inexpensive maintenance procedure that prolongs the life of asphalt surfaces. It costs a fraction of the price of completely replacing the surface with blacktop. Additionally, it helps to prevent more expensive damage to your pavement by blocking moisture that would otherwise exacerbate cracks and potholes.

The cost of sealcoating varies depending on your location, the type and thickness of sealant you choose, and the size of the area being coated. Typically, the more asphalt that needs to be sealed, the higher the cost will be. It also depends on whether you want to add color to the sealant, which can raise the cost by a significant amount.

Before any sealing takes place, your driveway or parking lot must be free of cracks and crevices. This will require making repairs that are usually done by a separate contractor. If you have these repairs made before you have the asphalt sealed, it will significantly reduce the overall cost of the job.

Once the preparations are complete, your professional seal coating contractor will apply one or more coats of asphalt sealer. It is important that the sealant be allowed to dry overnight for best results. The drying time will help the new coating to bond with the existing blacktop and create a smooth surface that is impervious to weather, oils, and chemicals.

During the process of applying the sealant, your driveway or parking lot will be power washed to remove any dirt and oily debris that is present. It is essential to clean the asphalt thoroughly before seal coating to ensure that the new material will bond properly with the old surface. A gas blower, degreaser, scrub brush, and water hose should be used to accomplish this task.

Before choosing a sealant, consider the types of pavement your property has and how much traffic it will receive. The most common and least expensive option is coal tar, which holds up well to the elements and blocks UV light. Other options include rubberized asphalt and acrylic seal, which are more expensive but offer greater flexibility and are environmentally friendly.