When estimating sealcoating projects, you probably bid by the square foot. But the sealer you purchase is by the gallon. Let’s look at how to figure the amount of sealer your project really needs. You want to consider how much the product covers per square foot as a base, and then consider the condition of the pavement. Let’s dive in.
Mike Byrd, president of Siteworx LLC, reminds us that most sealers on the market today cover about 60 square feet of normal pavement per gallon of sealer. Normal is relative but think of it as a pavement that’s in pretty good shape—not too old, not too cracked, just in need of a seal to keep it in good shape.
But let’s say you have a client with an older pavement. If it’s a commercial lot that’s 5 or 6 years old and has no shade, it’s probably oxidized and ready to soak up more of your product as you put it down. You will need to estimate more product per 60 square feet. Your best bet is to work with your product supplier to determine a good coverage rate, keep that number in your back office/paperwork and provide estimates with it in mind.
If you have the good fortune of bidding on a high-end residential property system with well-maintained streets and parking lots, you may be looking at surfaces that are in great condition. They may be 1 to 2 years old and not likely to absorb much of your sealer. Your product may cover closer to 100 square feet per gallon.
Check out the article below, based on Byrd’s presentation at the 2023 National Pavement Expo, and completed with his assistance. He explains in depth how to prepare to estimate sealing, striping and other maintenance and preservation projects.
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