Grey, dry-looking tarseal is not necessarily at the end of its life. The key is whether the wear is mainly at the surface or a sign of movement and failure below it.
A suitable treatment can refresh faded asphalt and reduce the visual impact of some cracking. It cannot stop an active structural problem from returning.
Fading and oxidation
As asphalt ages, exposure can leave it looking pale, dry and inconsistent. On a suitable bound surface, the NZSC Asphalt Rejuvenation Treatment restores a darker colour and creates a renewed wearing layer.
Before quoting, we confirm that the customer’s tarseal is compatible asphalt. Loose chipseal and other bituminous surfaces need individual assessment.
Hairline cracks
Fine, stable surface cracks of around 3 mm or less may be treated as part of the rejuvenation process. They can become less prominent, but the coating does not structurally eliminate the crack.
Wider or deeper cracks
Larger cracks need separate assessment and preparation. Width is only part of the decision; depth, movement, broken edges and the condition of the surrounding asphalt also matter.
- CleanRemove dirt, vegetation and loose material from the suitable crack.
- DryAllow the crack and surrounding asphalt to dry properly.
- SealApply the NZSC Crack Sealing Treatment across the prepared crack and its edges.
- CureAllow the repair to cure before applying the wider surface treatment.
Deep, moving or badly broken cracks may need repeated filling, another repair method or structural advice instead of coating.
Spider or alligator-style cracking
NZSC Distressed-Surface Resurfacing is a heavier treatment considered for selected aged, ravelled or surface-cracked asphalt. It is not an answer for every driveway with an alligator pattern.
- The cracking should be mainly within the surface.
- The surrounding pavement must remain reasonably stable.
- Sections should not move or pump water under vehicles.
- The asphalt must not be broken into loose, displaced blocks.
- There should be no major depression or clear base failure.
Ravelling, degradation, lichen and moss
Organic growth, dirt and loose aggregate must be removed so the accepted treatment has a suitable surface to bond to. The driveway also needs enough dry weather after cleaning.
Localised surface degradation may be prepared or treated when the surrounding pavement remains sound. Areas that have lost too much material, become loose or developed potholes are likely to need repair advice first.
What a realistic result looks like
The aim is a darker, more consistent and maintained asphalt surface. It will still follow the existing shape of the driveway, and previous repairs, contours or some crack evidence may remain visible.
We would rather set a clear expectation before the work than describe an older driveway as new once it has been coated.
Wondering what your driveway needs?
Tell us about the surface and add a few photos. We will review the details and let you know whether seal coating looks suitable and what should happen next.