Driveway Sealcoating Calculator
Work out exactly how many gallons of sealer you need for your driveway, based on its area, coverage rate and number of coats. Add your own price for a full cost estimate.
How this calculator works
gallons = ceil( (driveway area × coats) ÷ coverage per gallon )
Worked example
A 45 ft × 20 ft driveway, 2 coats, 80 sq ft/gallon coverage:
- Driveway area: 45 × 20 = 900 sq ft.
- Gallons: (900 × 2) ÷ 80 = 22.5 → buy 23 gallons.
Prep before sealing
Filling cracks before sealcoating keeps water from getting under the asphalt through those cracks, which is one of the main things sealcoating is meant to prevent — sealer applied straight over unfilled cracks will simply crack again in the same spot. Crack repair is normally a separate prep step done before sealing, not something the sealer itself fixes, so budget for crack filler separately from the sealer volume this calculator estimates.
One coat vs two
| Situation | Coats |
|---|---|
| Routine maintenance, good condition | 1 |
| Longer than usual since last sealing | 2 |
| Visible wear, fading, or heavier traffic | 2 |
Frequently asked questions
How often should an asphalt driveway be sealcoated?
A common guideline is every 2 to 3 years for normal use, though climate, sun exposure and traffic all affect how quickly sealer wears. A newly paved driveway is usually left unsealed for several months to a year to allow the asphalt to fully cure before the first sealcoat.
Does crack filling need to happen before sealing?
Yes, generally — filling cracks first keeps water from getting under the asphalt through them, which is one of the main things sealcoating prevents. Sealer over unfilled cracks will simply crack again in the same spot, so crack repair is a separate prep step, not something the sealer fixes on its own.
One coat vs two coats — when is a second coat worth it?
A single coat is often enough for a driveway in reasonably good condition getting routine maintenance. A second coat is generally worth it for a driveway that's gone longer between sealings, shows more visible wear or fading, or gets heavier traffic.
What is the best weather window for sealcoating?
Sealcoating generally needs mild, dry weather to cure properly — most products specify a minimum temperature, often around 50°F, and a dry window of at least 24 hours after application, sometimes longer. Check your specific product's label for its exact requirements.