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Asphalt sealer is not one chemical. Coal-tar-pitch sealers and water-based asphalt-emulsion sealers have materially different health and environmental profiles. Coal-tar products can contain substantial concentrations of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), including compounds classified as known or probable human carcinogens, and their runoff can harm aquatic life. For most residential driveways, a clearly labeled, water-based asphalt-emulsion driveway sealer is the lower-hazard choice when it is compatible with the pavement and permitted locally. Read the current label and safety data sheet (SDS), use the specified protective equipment, and keep uncured material and wash water out of storm drains.
What “asphalt sealer” actually means
“Asphalt sealer” describes a product family rather than a single formulation. The two categories most relevant to a homeowner are coal-tar-pitch sealers and asphalt-emulsion sealers.
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Coal-tar-pitch sealer
Coal-tar sealcoat typically contains 20 to 35% coal tar pitch. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) describes coal tar pitch as a steel-manufacturing byproduct that is 50% or more PAHs by weight. An EPA factsheet reports 3.4% to 20% PAHs by dry weight in coal-tar sealants. Several PAHs are carcinogenic; the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services classifies coal tars and coal-tar pitches as “known to be human carcinogens.”
These products can look like any other black driveway coating, so color is not a reliable way to identify them. Look for “coal tar,” “coal-tar pitch,” “refined tar,” or wording that describes a high-PAH tar formulation in the ingredient list, technical data, or SDS.
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- EASY TO APPLY - Paint on the application using a conventional brush, roller equipment, or foam squeegee; Apply heavy coats to build up your waterproof membrane
- COVERAGE - Application for Asphalt surface only; Apply a minimum final thickness of 1 gallon per 50 sq ft. It should require 2-3 coats to build up the protective waterproofing membrane
Asphalt-emulsion sealer
Asphalt emulsion suspends asphalt binder in water. Water-based asphalt-emulsion pavement sealers are covered by ASTM D8099/D8099M-17(2023) for uses including roadways, driveways, and parking areas. New York’s environmental agency reports that asphalt-based pavement sealants typically contain about 50 parts per million (ppm) total PAH, substantially lower than the concentrations reported for coal-tar sealants. “Lower” does not mean harmless: a product-specific SDS can still classify an emulsion sealer as hazardous.
Why coal-tar runoff is a concern
PAHs from a coal-tar surface can remain on pavement and move with dust, tire wear, and rain. EPA reports one study in which stormwater from parking lots sealed with coal-tar sealant contained PAH concentrations 65 times higher than runoff from unsealed lots. A U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) summary of a cited study found that runoff collected up to 42 days after application caused 100% mortality to two laboratory aquatic organisms. These findings describe particular studies and test conditions, not a prediction that every site will produce the same result, but they explain why storm drains, streams, ponds, and groundwater deserve protection.
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Fresh application is the period of greatest practical concern for a do-it-yourself project: material can be tracked onto soil, carried by rain, or washed from tools. Dust from weathered coal-tar sealcoat can also be transported away from the driveway. Preventing release is therefore more important than relying on cleanup after a spill.
Which sealer is the safer choice?
The Asphalt Institute’s engineering FAQ states that commercial sealers containing coal-tar compounds are not recommended. Its guidance favors a slow-setting asphalt emulsion diluted with water and applied as a thin, uniform coating. The FAQ gives a typical diluted application quantity of 0.1 to 0.15 gallons per square yard. That figure is engineering guidance, not a universal instruction: the product label controls dilution and coverage for the specific formulation.
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- HIGH-SOLIDS FORMULA – This driveway resurfacer is made with a high-solids formula that provides good filling and long-term protection. Plus, it's fortified with sand for added strength, filling, slip resistance, and durability.
- EASY TO APPLY – With no need for stirring, the Jetcoat 8-Year Ultra Driveway Resurfacer is packaged ready to use. A rubber squeegee or brush is recommended for application, ensuring an even and smooth finish that's fast and easy to apply.
- GREAT COVERAGE – Depending on pavement porosity, coverage will vary from 250-350 sq. ft. per pail, making this driveway resurfacer a great value for your money.
- BLACK DRYING – This driveway resurfacer dries black, providing a uniform and attractive finish that complements your property's aesthetic.
| Decision factor | Coal-tar-pitch sealer | Water-based asphalt-emulsion sealer |
|---|---|---|
| Primary chemistry | Coal tar pitch, often 20–35% of the sealcoat; coal tar pitch is 50% or more PAHs by weight according to EPA | Asphalt binder dispersed in water |
| PAH information | EPA factsheet reports 3.4–20% PAHs by dry weight in coal-tar sealants | New York DEC reports about 50 ppm total PAH for typical asphalt-based pavement sealants |
| Professional guidance | Asphalt Institute says coal-tar-containing commercial sealers are not recommended | Asphalt Institute recommends slow-setting asphalt emulsion diluted with water and applied thinly and uniformly |
| Standard identified in the evidence | None specified | ASTM D8099/D8099M-17(2023) covers water-based asphalt-emulsion pavement sealers for roads, driveways, and parking areas |
| Runoff concern | PAH-rich runoff has been measured at much higher levels than runoff from unsealed pavement | Lower typical PAH content does not remove the need to control uncured product and wash water |
Avoid making a decision solely from words such as “eco,” “low odor,” or “water cleanup.” Verify the chemistry in the current product description and SDS. If the seller will not provide those documents, choose a different product.
How to select an asphalt-emulsion driveway sealer
- Confirm the surface. Check that the label permits asphalt pavement and the particular condition of your driveway. A sealer is a surface treatment, not a repair for structural failure.
- Identify the binder. Prefer an explicitly water-based asphalt-emulsion formulation. Reject products whose ingredient information identifies coal tar, coal-tar pitch, or refined tar when your goal is a coal-tar-free coating.
- Read the current SDS. Look for hazard classifications, carcinogenicity statements, required gloves and eye protection, ventilation language, first-aid measures, spill response, storage temperature, and disposal instructions. Do not transfer a hazard classification from one brand or formulation to every asphalt emulsion.
- Check the label’s coverage and dilution. Follow the stated water ratio, application rate, number of coats, recoat interval, and cure time. The Asphalt Institute’s 0.1–0.15 gallons per square yard is a reference range, not permission to override the label.
- Check local rules. Regulations can prohibit a chemistry or impose notification duties even when a product is sold nationally. Keep a copy of the label and SDS with your project records.
Local restrictions can change the answer
New York
New York prohibits coal-tar-labeled pavement products on driveways and parking areas. In that state, a coal-tar label is a reason not to use the product for those applications; select a compliant asphalt-based alternative instead.
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Illinois has notification requirements for certain institutional applications. The requirement is not a blanket rule for every residential driveway, so identify the property type and application before work begins and confirm the current state or local procedure.
Other states, counties, cities, and stormwater authorities may have additional restrictions. A local prohibition takes precedence over a general manufacturer recommendation.
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- DURABLE & FLEXIBLE SEAL: Ideal for cracks and joints in driveways, parking lots, and walkways—remains flexible to resist cracking.
- PREVENTS WATER DAMAGE: Forms a strong, water-resistant seal to block moisture, frost, and erosion.
- ADHERES TO DAMP SURFACES: Can be applied in wet or humid conditions, ensuring reliable repairs in less-than-ideal weather.
- EASY TO APPLY: 10.1 fl oz cartridge fits standard caulking guns for fast, clean application. Made in the USA.
Safe-work procedure for a driveway project
Before opening the container
- Read the label and SDS in full, including weather limits, drying time, storage, first aid, and disposal.
- Confirm that the product is for exterior use and that its surface, temperature, and moisture requirements match your driveway.
- Plan a dry-weather window long enough for the stated cure period. ASTM D3423 identifies weather, pavement and air temperatures, drying time, and freezing of emulsion as application precautions.
- Keep children, pets, food, vehicles, and unrelated tools away from the work zone.
- Identify nearby storm drains and block or protect them without creating a trip hazard. Do not let coating, rinse water, or sediment enter the drainage system.
Personal protective equipment and ventilation
Use the gloves, eye protection, protective clothing, and ventilation specified by the product’s SDS and label. Chemical-resistant gloves are commonly required by product instructions, but the correct material and breakthrough time are product-specific; the SDS controls. Wear eye protection whenever splashing is possible, and cover skin that could contact wet sealer. An exterior-use product must not be applied indoors, in a garage with inadequate ventilation, or in any enclosed space where vapors or aerosols can accumulate.
Do not eat, drink, smoke, or touch your face while handling the coating. Wash hands and exposed skin with soap and water after removing gloves. Keep contaminated clothing separate from household laundry until it has been cleaned according to the SDS.
Weather and pavement checks
Do not apply when rain is likely during the label’s cure window, when freezing conditions are expected, or when air or pavement temperatures fall outside the stated range. Emulsion can freeze in storage or on the pavement, destroying performance. A surface that is damp, dirty, dusty, oily, or shedding aggregate can prevent adhesion even if the air temperature appears suitable.
Application
- Clean the pavement using the method allowed by the label. Collect debris instead of pushing it into a drain.
- Repair significant cracks and allow repairs to cure as directed. Do not use sealer to bridge moving cracks, potholes, or failed edges.
- Mix or dilute only as instructed. Never add solvents, detergent, or extra water to change handling without written manufacturer directions.
- Apply a thin, uniform coat with the specified squeegee, brush, or spray equipment. Excess thickness can extend drying and increase tracking.
- Maintain the exclusion zone until the label says foot and vehicle traffic may resume. A surface that feels dry can still be uncured below the film.
Cleanup and storage
Use the label’s cleanup method and collect all residue. Do not hose tools, gloves, or pavement into a storm drain, roadside ditch, stream, or septic system. Treat leftover material, absorbent, and contaminated rags as directed by the SDS and local waste authority. Keep the container closed, upright, and protected at the stated storage temperature. The example manufacturer SDS in the evidence specifies exterior use only and “DO NOT FREEZE”; that warning is product-specific but illustrates why storage instructions matter.
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- TOUGH AND DURABLE — Formulated to resist weathering and aging, this asphalt sealer features a permanent elasticity that also helps prevent tearing and cracking
- FAST-ACTING — Once your asphalt sealant is applied, required skin time is typically less than 60 minutes, so long as temperature and humidity is moderate
- READY TO USE — Sealant comes ready for use in handy cartridges that fit most standard caulk guns. No mixing is required. Condition cartridge to between 65 °F and 75 °F prior to use for best results
When sealing is the wrong repair
Sealer improves appearance and can help protect sound asphalt, but it cannot restore a pavement base that has failed. Obtain a qualified contractor assessment when the driveway has deep or widening cracks, potholes, rutting, drainage problems, widespread alligator cracking, loose aggregate, or areas that move under load. A cosmetic coating over structural damage can hide the defect and make later diagnosis harder.
For a small, accessible area with sound pavement, a homeowner may be able to apply an approved emulsion safely by following the label. Large areas, steep slopes, complex drainage, institutional sites, or work near sensitive water bodies favor a contractor who can control overspray, traffic, runoff, and waste.
Common mistakes and corrections
“All black sealers are equivalent.”
They are not. Check chemistry and the SDS rather than judging by color or price.
“Water-based means nonhazardous.”
Water is the carrier, not a guarantee of safety. One manufacturer SDS for an asphalt-emulsion driveway sealer lists OSHA HazCom 2012 carcinogenicity Category 2 and “Suspected of causing cancer.” That classification applies to that specific product; obtain the SDS for the product you intend to use.
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“A little rain will not matter.”
Rain can move uncured coating into drainage and ruin the film. Postpone work whenever the label’s weather conditions cannot be met.
“I can rinse the tools in the street.”
Street inlets are designed to convey water, not filter coating chemicals. Collect rinse water and residue using the SDS and local disposal instructions.
“More material gives better protection.”
Over-application can lengthen cure time, increase tracking, and create an uneven film. Use the label rate; treat the Asphalt Institute range only as general engineering context.
A practical purchase checklist
- Product is explicitly labeled for asphalt driveways or the intended pavement.
- Formulation is clearly identified as water-based asphalt emulsion when selecting a coal-tar-free alternative.
- No coal tar, coal-tar pitch, or refined tar appears in the ingredient or product description when those materials are prohibited or unwanted.
- Current SDS is available before purchase.
- Label states dilution, coverage, coats, drying time, temperature limits, storage, PPE, and cleanup.
- Local law permits the product and application; check special rules for institutional or regulated sites.
- Weather forecast allows the full cure period without rain or freezing conditions.
- Storm drains, children, pets, and vehicles can be kept out of the work area.
The bottom line for homeowners
Treat “asphalt sealer” as a chemistry decision, not a color or marketing category. Coal-tar-pitch sealers have documented high PAH content, carcinogenicity concerns, and aquatic-runoff impacts, and the Asphalt Institute does not recommend coal-tar-containing commercial sealers. When local rules and pavement conditions allow, choose a clearly labeled water-based asphalt-emulsion driveway sealer, verify its product-specific SDS, and apply it only within the label’s weather, PPE, curing, storage, and disposal requirements.
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