Driveway sealcoating cost in 2026, and how often an asphalt driveway needs it
What sealcoating an asphalt driveway costs on three sizes, one coat or two with crack filling, how often to reseal, when sealcoating is a waste of money, and Austin's coal-tar ban.
Sealcoat protects asphalt from the three things that destroy it: sun, water and oil. It is cheap, and it works, but only on asphalt that is still sound. Here is what it costs, how often to do it, and when to spend the money on repairs instead.
What sealcoating costs
| Type | 400 sq ft driveway | 600 sq ft driveway | 900 sq ft driveway |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single coat | $220 | $220 | $262 |
| Two coats + crack fill | $220 | $284 | $381 |
| Two coats + crack fill + striping | $282 | $378 | $521 |
Priced by the same engine our free quote tool uses, at its starter rates. 400 sq ft is a one-car driveway, 600 a typical two-car, 900 a long or wide one. Most companies have a minimum charge, which is why one coat on a small driveway costs the same as on a typical one. Pothole patching is extra.
How often to sealcoat
- First coat: wait until new asphalt has cured, typically six months to a year.
- After that: every 2 to 4 years. One coat lasts about 2–3 years; two coats with crack filling, 3–4.
- Not every year. Too many coats build up a layer that cracks and peels on its own.
When sealcoating is a waste
Sealcoat is a protective skin, not a repair. If the driveway is alligatored (a web of connected cracks), crumbling at the edges, or holding water in dips, the base is failing and sealer will not fix it. That driveway needs patching or an overlay; see asphalt vs concrete driveway for what each costs.
What a good job includes
- Cleaning: edges trimmed, debris blown off, oil spots primed so sealer sticks.
- Crack filling before sealing. Sealer over an open crack just hides it for a season.
- Weather: above about 50°F and dry for at least a day after. Keep cars off for 24–48 hours.
- Sealer type named on the quote: asphalt emulsion or acrylic.
Common questions
How much does it cost to sealcoat a driveway?
About $220 for one coat on 600 sq ft, and $284 for two coats with crack filling.
How often should a driveway be sealcoated?
Every 2 to 4 years, starting six months to a year after it was laid.
Is sealcoating worth it?
On sound asphalt, yes. On failing asphalt, repair it instead.
Get the homeowner roof-buying playbook
One short email every two weeks: which questions to ask roofers, when to walk away, how to spot inflated bids. No spam.