Enter the size of your driveway to see how many pails of sealer to buy for one or two coats.
How to use the driveway sealer calculator
- Enter the length and width. For an odd shape, split it into rectangles and add the areas with the square footage calculator.
- Enter the coverage from the pail in square feet per gallon. Divide the pail coverage by the pail size if the label gives it per pail.
- Choose one or two coats. Most manufacturers recommend two thin coats over one thick one.
Formulas
Area = length × width Gallons = area × coats ÷ coverage per gallon Pails = gallons ÷ pail size, rounded up
Coverage depends on the surface. Smooth, previously sealed asphalt takes far less than an old, porous driveway, and filled sealers with sand cover less than thin acrylic or asphalt-emulsion products.
Worked example: a 50 × 12 ft driveway, two coats
- Area: 50 × 12 = 600 ft².
- Two coats at 80 ft² per gallon: 600 × 2 ÷ 80 = 15 gallons.
- Pails: 15 ÷ 5 = 3 pails.
Questions
How much does a 5 gallon pail of driveway sealer cover?
Typically 250 to 500 ft² per coat, depending on the product and how rough the asphalt is. The label gives the range for that product.
How long should new asphalt cure before sealing?
Sealer makers and paving contractors generally say to wait at least 90 days, and often six months to a year, so the oils in new asphalt can cure. Check the product label.
How often should a driveway be sealed?
Every two to three years is the usual guidance. Sealing more often builds up a thick film that can crack and peel.