How Much Driveway Sealer?
Calculate sealer gallons and cost by driveway size and condition.
Sealer Coverage Rates
Driveway sealer coverage depends on surface condition: good condition (minor wear, sealed within 3 years): 75-90 sq ft per gallon. Fair (visible wear, small cracks): 55-70 sq ft/gallon — the porous surface drinks up sealer. Poor (significant cracking, oxidized gray): 40-55 sq ft/gallon. Always apply two thin coats rather than one thick coat. Thin coats cure properly, bond better, and last 50-100% longer. A typical two-car driveway (40x12 feet, 480 sq ft) needs 2-3 five-gallon buckets for two coats.
DIY Sealing Guide
Step 1: Fill all cracks with crack filler and let cure 24 hours. Step 2: Clean the driveway thoroughly — pressure wash or scrub with degreaser. Step 3: Let dry completely (24-48 hours after washing). Step 4: Apply first coat with a squeegee or roller, working in one direction. Step 5: Let dry 24 hours. Step 6: Apply second coat perpendicular to the first. Step 7: Keep traffic off for 48 hours. Total cost: $75-125 in materials. Professional cost: $300-600. You save $200-500 doing it yourself, and the job takes a morning plus drying time.
Clean the driveway with a pressure washer and let it dry 24-48 hours before sealing. Sealer on a dirty surface peels within a season.
