Month: May 2020

3 Things You Need to Know About Sealer Additives

Paul Raymond / May 21 , 2020

Additives are designed to enhance and strengthen the natural qualities of sealers. Although it sounds like an elementary process, there are a few variables to consider to achieve effective results.

Being in business for over 60 years, we’ve been asked many questions about sealer additives. To sum it up best, there are three critical things you need to know:

1. Can I incorporate multiple additives into my sealer? 

It is good practice to utilize one additive type sold by the manufacturer of your sealer. Mixing products made by different manufacturers is generally not advisable as not all additive products are compatible with one another. Also make sure that the additive is designed to be used with your sealer type (i.e. refined coal tar, asphalt, petroleum, etc.).

2. What is the difference between sealing with additives and sealing without?

Differences between sealing with and without additives is dependent on the type and amount of additive used, as well as application and environmental conditions. In general, sealing with additives provides the following benefits compared to sealing without:

  • Extends sealer durability and longevity
  • Improves flexibility to help prevent cracking
  • Improves adhesion and cohesion properties of sealer
  • Increases resistance to extreme temperatures
  • Increases resistance to chemicals
  • Increases color retention
  • Shortens the time between coats or re-opening to traffic when a fast-drying additive is used
  • Adds a degree of cost that may be offset by allowing for a greater amount of dilution

Keep in mind that some sealers already have additives incorporated during manufacturing such as GemSeal PolyTar®, so check with your manufacturer before you mix.

3. Which one is right for my job?

Sealer and additive manufacturers provide recommendations for use of their products and include datasheets and mix design tables. The technical datasheet may give a general overview on what that particular additive may be good for, but your sales representative can provide better guidance regarding your specific need. For example, a colder climate may benefit from using an additive that imparts greater flexibility to better withstand freeze/thaw cycles. Areas with high humidity may benefit from a drying agent to help the sealer cure faster. For high-traffic areas or turning lanes, choose an additive that will enhance overall bond strength. GemSeal has a comparison chart to help you select the right one.

If you have additional questions about additives, you’re in the right place. Call or contact us today.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Paul Raymond Technical Manager

Paul has served the adhesive and sealant industry for over 16 years in various capacities including R&D, technical service, and process engineering. In his current role managing quality and product…

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2020 Marks New Opportunities for Striping Contractors

Lee F. Lowis / May 5 , 2020

As we emerge from the pandemic, there will be changes that affect virtually every business. Fortunately, the pavement maintenance industry is well equipped to adapt as needs and priorities shift for our customers. The pavement marking sector, for example, is already in position to make a big impression.

If you mark it, they will come

Prior to the pandemic, online ordering and curbside pickup—especially in the grocery industry–had been gaining momentum. Now, due to changing circumstances, it is becoming the norm for grocers, retailers, and restaurants. Striping contractors are integral to the success of this endeavor. After all, parking spaces that are reserved for this service must be clearly zoned, marked, and identified with signage. As the demand for striping increases so, too, are the opportunities for contractors to become a trusted advisor for their customers.

Solutions on the spot

Beyond laying gallons of paint, striping contractors are a much-needed resource for property managers. They can help strategize and recommond proper pavement markings; design new or reconfigure existing layouts to accommodate curbside pickup/delivery areas; and install signs, signposts, bollard covers, speed bumps, and car stops.

Providing direction concerning material selection is also a valuable service. Since many commercial properties—and restaurants in particular—have experienced reduced operating hours, further downtime is not palatable. Rather than closing off sections of a parking lot to perform striping, contractors can specify thermoplastic material as an alternative. Thermoplastic symbols are pre-cut for easy installation without specialized equipment. They can be applied quickly and the material is extremely durable.

Traditional traffic marking paints are always a viable option. Striping contractors can recommend the right formula based on whether the job calls for striping on top of new asphalt or re-striping over existing lines. It’s also important to use a paint that complies with local air quality laws, which can vary from region-to-region and state-to-state.

While the future isn’t clearly mapped out, one thing is certain—striping contractors are essential to keep business moving in the right direction. GemSeal is here to help with products, application equipment, and advice.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Lee F. Lowis President

Lee has 40 years of experience working in various capacities from laborer, contractor, Certified Tennis Court Builder, and sales executive to senior management. Prior to joining GemSeal, Lee served as…

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