Use an asphalt emulsion sealer to protect asphalt that is still in good shape. Use a Gilsonite sealer to rejuvenate old, oxidized asphalt, typically 5 to 10 years old or more, and then seal it with an emulsion sealer 1 to 2 years later.
Quick comparison
| Asphalt Emulsion Sealer | Gilsonite Sealer | |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Water-based asphalt emulsion, latex and acrylic enhanced | Solvent-based: refined bitumen, Gilsonite (natural bitumen) and mineral spirits |
| What it does | Coats and protects the surface from weather, oils, salts and traffic wear; restores a jet black finish | Penetrates and softens the top layer of old asphalt to rejuvenate it |
| Best for | Newer asphalt in good condition | Older, oxidized asphalt |
| Dry and traffic time | Dries to the touch in about 10 minutes; cars and people in about 8 hours on a warm, dry day (up to 48 hours in poor weather) | Dries in 2–4 hours minimum; no vehicle traffic for 24 hours |
| Weather | Apply on a warm, dry day; do not let it freeze | Can be used year round |
| Do not use on | Concrete, or asphalt less than 4 months old | Asphalt less than 90 days old, or surfaces with a coal tar coating |
| Odor and VOCs | No odor; zero VOCs, HAPs and PAHs | Solvent based; cannot ship to NY, NJ or CA under those states' laws |
When to choose emulsion
If your asphalt is relatively new, say 1 to 2 years old, and in good shape, seal the top layer so sun and weather don't oxidize it. Our Asphalt Emulsion Sealer is ready to use with no dilution, has high solids (58% minimum) for a one-coat option, and meets ASTM D8099. Apply it with a brush, squeegee or sprayer to a clean surface, and plan to reapply about every three years (every 1–2 years on older, more damaged surfaces).
When to choose Gilsonite
If your asphalt is 5 to 10 years old or older and oxidized, a Gilsonite sealer's solvents soften the oxidized top layer so the new binder can mix in, leaving a renewed top coat. Our Driveway Gilsonite Sealer (Equinox) covers about 100 square feet per gallon. Fill all cracks and holes first, apply to a clean, dry surface, and come back 1 to 2 years later with an emulsion sealer.
To estimate how much sealer you need, use the sealcoat calculator, or browse all driveway sealers.
Before you seal
Fill cracks first. Both sealers go over hot or cold crack filler once it is ready: let cold pour filler dry completely (24–48 hours) and let hot pour filler cool to air temperature. See Hot Rubberized Crack Filler and Cold Pour Rubberized Asphalt Crack Filler.
FAQ
Can I use emulsion sealer on concrete?
No. Pavemade Asphalt Emulsion Sealer is for asphalt surfaces only.
Is sealcoating necessary?
Not strictly, but it is highly recommended. Unsealed asphalt is more likely to crack and crumble as it ages.
Related buying guides
- Hot vs. Cold Pour Asphalt Crack Filler: Which Should You Use?
- How Much Crack Filler Do I Need?
- How to Choose a Crack Filling Melter: HOTBOX 10 vs. HOTBOX 30
See all Pavemade buying guides.