Blog Posts

Why Pavement Shield Doesn't Use Customer-Supplied Sealer | Professional Driveway Sealing in the GTA & Durham Region

If you're searching for driveway sealing in the GTA or driveway sealing in Durham Region, you've probably received quotes from several companies. One question we hear from homeowners is:

"Can you use the sealer I already bought?"

At Pavement Shield, the answer is no—and there's a good reason for it.

Our reputation is built on providing professional asphalt driveway sealing that lasts. To deliver consistent results, we only use premium commercial-grade pavement sealer that we've personally selected, tested, and trust.

Here's why that matters for your driveway.


Professional Driveway Sealing Starts with Professional Products

A driveway sealer is only as good as the materials being applied.

Many products sold in big box stores are designed for homeowners tackling a DIY project. While they may look similar in the bucket, they often don't offer the same durability, protection, or finish as commercial-grade sealers used by professional driveway sealing companies.

At Pavement Shield, we use commercial products specifically formulated to protect asphalt driveways throughout the Greater Toronto Area and Durham Region, where our driveways face everything from freezing winters and road salt to intense summer UV exposure.

Our products help:

Protect against water penetration

Resist UV damage

Reduce oxidation

Slow asphalt deterioration

Improve curb appeal

Extend the life of your driveway

When you invest in professional driveway sealing, you deserve professional materials.


We Can't Guarantee Products We Didn't Supply

One of the biggest reasons we don't use customer-supplied sealer is simple:

We have no way of knowing what's inside the bucket.

Has it frozen over winter?

Has it been sitting in a garage for three years?

Was it diluted?

Has it separated?

Even premium asphalt sealer can fail if it's been improperly stored.

If we apply an unknown product and your driveway begins peeling, fading, or wearing prematurely, nobody wins.

We believe homeowners deserve results—not excuses.


Your Driveway Reflects Our Reputation

Every driveway we seal becomes part of our portfolio.

Whether we're completing driveway sealing in Ajax, Whitby, Oshawa, Pickering, Toronto, Markham, Vaughan, Richmond Hill, Scarborough, or anywhere across the GTA, our goal is always the same:

Deliver a finish we'd be proud to put our company name on.

Using customer-supplied materials introduces variables we simply can't control.

By supplying every product ourselves, we know exactly what is being applied to your driveway every single time.


Commercial Equipment Requires Commercial Products

Professional spray systems aren't designed to work with every type of asphalt sealer.

Different products vary in:

Thickness

Sand content

Polymer additives

Drying time

Coverage rate

Application method

Using the wrong product can create streaks, uneven coverage, poor curing, and premature failure.

We've spent years perfecting our process using products that work together to deliver a smooth, durable finish.

Consistency creates better results.


Cheap Sealer Usually Becomes an Expensive Repair

It's understandable to want to save money.

But when it comes to driveway sealing, cheaper isn't always better.

A lower-quality sealer may require resealing much sooner, provide less protection against water and UV damage, or begin flaking after only a season or two.

Professional driveway maintenance isn't about applying the cheapest coating—it's about protecting one of the largest investments on your property.

Quality products save money over time.


Why Homeowners Across the GTA & Durham Region Choose Pavement Shield

There are plenty of companies offering driveway sealing in Toronto, driveway sealing in Durham Region, and across the GTA.

What sets Pavement Shield apart is our commitment to doing the job properly from start to finish.

That means:

✔ Premium commercial-grade asphalt sealer

✔ Professional application equipment

✔ Thorough surface preparation

✔ Clean, uniform finish

✔ Honest recommendations

✔ Quality workmanship backed by experience

We never cut corners because we know your driveway deserves better.


Looking for the Best Driveway Sealing Company in the GTA?

Whether you're in Toronto, Scarborough, North York, Etobicoke, Markham, Richmond Hill, Vaughan, Pickering, Ajax, Whitby, Oshawa, Courtice, Bowmanville, Clarington, or anywhere in the Greater Toronto Area or Durham Region, Pavement Shield is committed to delivering professional driveway sealing that protects your asphalt and enhances your home's curb appeal.

When you hire Pavement Shield, you're not just paying for someone to spray sealer.

You're investing in proven products, professional workmanship, and years of experience protecting asphalt driveways across Southern Ontario.

That's why we don't use customer-supplied sealer.

Because when our name is on the job, we believe every part of it should meet our standards.

Get a Free Driveway Sealing Quote Today

If you're looking for reliable, professional driveway sealing in the GTA or Durham Region, Pavement Shield is here to help.

We use premium commercial-grade asphalt sealer, proven application methods, and attention to detail on every project—because protecting your driveway is what we do best.

Contact Pavement Shield today for a free, no-obligation quote and see why homeowners across the GTA and Durham Region trust us to protect their asphalt year after year.





Oil-Based vs. Water-Based Asphalt Sealer: Which is Better for Your Driveway or Parking Lot?



When it comes to asphalt maintenance, sealing your driveway, parking lot, or walkway is crucial. A good sealcoat protects your asphalt from water, UV rays, oil, and daily wear—extending its lifespan and keeping it looking fresh.


But not all sealers are created equal.


The two most popular types of asphalt sealers are:


Oil-based asphalt sealers

Water-based emulsion asphalt sealers


While both offer protection,

water-based emulsion sealers

have become the go-to choice for residential and commercial asphalt sealing—and for good reason.




🔍 Understanding the Difference


Oil-Based Asphalt Sealers


Made with petroleum-based materials

Penetrate asphalt for deep protection

Leave a shiny, jet-black finish

Known for durability but come with strong fumes and longer drying times


Water-Based Emulsion Sealers


Made with asphalt or acrylic particles suspended in water

Form a protective coating on the asphalt surface

Lower odor, easier to work with

Offer a matte, uniform black finish




✅ Why Water-Based Emulsion Sealer is the Better Choice


1. Eco-Friendly Asphalt Sealing


Water-based sealers produce

low VOC emissions

, making them safer for the environment and for people. In many regions, oil-based sealers are heavily regulated or banned due to their environmental impact.


2. Safer & Easier to Use


No harsh chemical fumes. No specialized equipment.

Water-based asphalt sealer

can be applied and cleaned up with basic tools and soap and water—great for DIY or professional use.


3. Consistent Curing and Finish


While both sealers require about

24 hours to dry

, water-based formulas offer a cleaner, more uniform cure. They deliver a solid matte-black finish that resists UV damage, cracking, and fading over time.


4. Cleaner Appearance, Lasting Results


Water-based sealers give a smooth, rich finish that stands up to traffic and weather. With routine reapplication every 2–3 years, your asphalt will stay protected and visually appealing.




🛠️ Best Uses for Water-Based Sealer


Residential driveways

Commercial parking lots

Sidewalks & walkways

Playgrounds & asphalt courts


Whether you're a

homeowner

,

property manager

, or

business owner

, choosing a water-based sealer gives you a long-lasting and eco-conscious solution.




💬 Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Asphalt Sealer


While

oil-based sealers

are still used in industrial or heavy-duty applications,

water-based emulsion sealers

are the superior choice for most homeowners and commercial property owners. They are:


Safer for the environment

Easier to apply and clean

Provide a lasting, clean finish




🛒 Looking for Professional Asphalt Sealing Services?


At Property Shield we specialize in

water-based asphalt sealing

for residential and commercial properties. Contact us today for a

free estimate

or expert advice.





The Secret to a Longer-Lasting Driveway: Why Coal Tar Asphalt Sealer Still Reigns Supreme

Is Your Driveway Ready to Withstand the Elements?

If you’re tired of seeing cracks, fading, and wear on your asphalt driveway year after year, its time to look at a long-lasting solution that professionals have trusted for decades - coal tar asphalt sealer. In this blog post, well break down why coal tar still leads the pack in driveway protection, how it works, and what you need to know before sealing your asphalt.

What Is Coal Tar Asphalt Sealer?

Coal tar sealer is a protective coating derived from the byproducts of coal processing. It's applied to asphalt surfaces to create a durable, weather-resistant barrier that protects against: Water penetration, UV rays, Oil spills, Gasoline and chemical damage, and Oxidation.

Why Use Coal Tar Sealer?

5 Key Benefits

1. Superior Durability

2. Weather Protection All Year Round

3. Deep, Rich Black Finish

4. Cost-Effective Over Time

5. Trusted by the Pros

How Coal Tar Sealing Works: Step-by-Step

1. Surface Preparation

2. Mixing & Application

3. Drying Time

4. Curing

Coal Tar vs. Asphalt-Based Sealer: What’s the Difference?

Coal tar lasts longer, resists chemicals better, an provides a darker finish compared to asphalt-based sealers, though it may cost slightly more per application.

Is Coal Tar Sealer Safe?

Concerns exist about PAH content, but with proper application and use of professional-grade products, coal tar sealers are considered safe and effective.

How Often Should You Seal Your Driveway?

With coal tar sealer, you can often wait 3 to 4 years between applications depending on traffic, climate, and wear.

DIY or Hire a Pro?

While DIY is possible, hiring a professional ensures better preparation, even coating, and use of commercial-grade materials.

Choosing the Right Coal Tar Sealer

Look for refined coal tar base, sand mix for traction, and latex or polymer additives. Ask about warranties or performance guarantees.

Ready to Protect Your Driveway? Let’s Get Started!

Coal tar sealer is the gold standard in protection. Don’t wait until damage sets in. Seal now, save later.

Get a Free Quote Today!

Call Pavement Shield Asphalt Maintenance Inc. at (289) 278-8386 or

Click Here to Schedule Online.

Final Thoughts

Whether you're a homeowner or property manager, coal tar sealer offers maximum protection and long-lasting results. Take action now because your driveway deserves better!

Safe. Trusted. Accurate. Experts.

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