What Is Coal Tar Sealer?

Coal tar sealer is a pavement coating traditionally used to protect asphalt surfaces from:

• oxidation
• UV exposure
• water penetration
• oil and chemical spills

It creates the dark black finish commonly associated with freshly sealed pavement.

For years, it was one of the standard options used in the sealcoating industry.

Why Coal Tar Has Become Controversial

The concern surrounding coal tar asphalt sealer comes from compounds known as PAHs (polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons).

Studies have linked high exposure to certain PAHs with:

• environmental contamination
• potential respiratory concerns
• skin irritation
• long-term health risks

Children and pets may face increased exposure because they spend more time in direct contact with driveways and pavement surfaces.

This growing awareness has caused many homeowners to rethink the products used on their property.

How Families Can Be Exposed

A lot of people assume pavement sealers are harmless once dry. However, small particles from coal tar sealers can still spread over time.

Exposure may occur through:

• dust tracked indoors
• direct skin contact
• airborne particles
• runoff into nearby soil and water

This is especially important for:

• households with children
• pets
• heavily used residential driveways

The risks are one reason many municipalities have started restricting or banning certain sealers altogether.

Environmental Concerns Are Growing Too

The issue is not limited to direct human exposure.

Research has shown that coal tar driveway sealer may contribute to:

• stormwater contamination
• pollution in lakes and streams
• soil contamination
• harm to aquatic ecosystems

As environmental regulations evolve, many property owners are looking for more sustainable alternatives.

Why Safer Sealcoating Alternatives Are Becoming Popular

In response to these concerns, the industry has shifted toward safer and more environmentally conscious products.

Modern asphalt sealcoating alternatives often focus on:

• reduced environmental impact
• lower chemical exposure
• safer residential application
• long-term pavement protection

Many newer products still provide:

• strong durability
• UV protection
• water resistance
• improved appearance

without relying on traditional coal tar formulas.

What Homeowners Should Look for in a Sealcoating Company

Not all sealcoating products are the same.

Before hiring a contractor, homeowners should ask:

• what type of sealer is being used
• whether the product contains coal tar
• what safety standards are followed
• how environmentally friendly the materials are

A reputable company should be transparent about the products they apply.

Sealcoating Still Matters for Asphalt Protection

While concerns about coal tar sealers are increasing, protecting asphalt remains important.

Proper driveway sealcoating helps:

• reduce oxidation
• prevent cracking
• limit water damage
• extend pavement lifespan

The key difference today is choosing products that balance protection with safety.

The Industry Is Changing in 2026

The sealcoating industry is evolving quickly as homeowners become more informed about product safety and environmental impact.

Modern property owners increasingly prioritize:

• safer materials
• environmentally responsible practices
• low-toxicity products
• long-term sustainability

This shift is influencing how professional sealcoating companies approach both residential and commercial projects.

Protecting Your Pavement Without Compromising Safety

Sealcoating should help protect your driveway, not create unnecessary concerns for your family or the environment. As awareness around coal tar asphalt sealer continues to grow, more homeowners are choosing safer solutions that still deliver long-lasting pavement protection.

NextGen Great Sealcoating provides professional asphalt sealcoating services using modern solutions designed to improve pavement durability while prioritizing safety and environmental responsibility.