Sealing is one of the simplest ways to protect a pavement from water ingress, oxidation and loss of skid resistance. Boral delivers sealing through two core approaches that are widely used across Australian networks. Hot Spray Seals use a sprayed bituminous binder and cover aggregate to create a waterproof, durable wearing surface. Emulsion Spray Seals achieve the same outcome using bitumen emulsions that can be advantageous in cooler or moisture‑sensitive conditions. Both are proven on hundreds of thousands of kilometres of Australian roads as a construction and maintenance treatment.
What is a spray seal and why use it?
A spray seal is formed by spraying a thin film of bituminous binder onto the prepared surface and immediately covering it with a layer of aggregate. The binder waterproofs the pavement while the aggregate protects the binder from traffic and delivers a skid resistant, dust‑free surface. One correctly designed coat can restore a weathered surface and meaningfully extend pavement life.
Why is asphalt sealing important?
Sealing creates a barrier that prevents water from entering cracks and weakening the base. It also shields the surface from UV rays, which can cause oxidation and brittleness over time. For high-use areas like car parks, playgrounds, and cycleways, sealing improves skid resistance and colour retention.
How often should I seal my asphalt?
Frequency depends on traffic, climate, and exposure. In high UV regions or areas with heavy vehicle use, sealing every few years can significantly extend pavement life. For decorative or coloured surfaces, sealing helps maintain vibrant colour and surface integrity.
Hot spray seal or emulsion spray seal. What is the difference?
Hot Spray Seals use hot bitumen binders. They are fast, economical and widely used from residential streets to state roads and even airports. They are valuable as a maintenance measure for roads suffering surface damage, often delivering a new wearing surface in a single pass.
Emulsion Spray Seals use bitumen emulsions in place of hot binder. This can be beneficial where temperatures are lower or where a conventional hot binder may not be optimal. Boral’s emulsion spray seals are offered across similar applications from pedestrian areas to council and state roads and airports.
At a technical level, spray sealing is flexible. Single coats suit low traffic sites, while two coats are typical for heavier traffic. Three coat seals are reserved for very high volumes. Correct binder application and aggregate selection are critical to performance.
What products does Boral offer for asphalt sealing and protection?
Hot Spray Seals
Use where rapid, economical surfacing or maintenance is required across residential, council and state roads. Suitable for restoring waterproofing and skid resistance with a single coat design where appropriate.
Emulsion Spray Seals
Use where emulsion application is preferred. Suitable across pedestrian areas, car parks, council and state roads and airports, and often the choice in cooler conditions or specific site constraints.
Surface Coat
Use to rejuvenate and protect asphalt and concrete, add colour definition and improve UV resistance and slip performance in car parks, playgrounds and walkways. Australian Made.
Does sealing improve safety?
Yes. Spray seals improve skid resistance and reduce water penetration, lowering the risk of surface failure. Coloured options also enhance visibility for cycleways and pedestrian zones.
Can sealing be applied to existing asphalt?
Absolutely. Spray seals and Surface Coat is designed to rejuvenate and protect existing pavements without full resurfacing. It is compatible with standard asphalt surfaces and can be applied after proper cleaning and preparation.
Is Surface Coat environmentally friendly?
Yes. Surface Coat is non-toxic and formulated for safe use in public spaces. Combined with Boral’s commitment to sustainability and Australian Made certification, it supports local manufacturing and environmental responsibility. Learn more about our Australian Made commitment.
Next Steps with Boral
Protect and refresh your pavements with Boral’s sealing solutions. Call 1300 267 255 or click Request a Quote to get started.