How Much Driveway Sealer Do I Need? Gallons and 5-Gallon Pails
Part of the project planner: Planning a new driveway.
A 50 × 12 ft driveway (600 ft²) takes about 16.5 gallons of sealcoat for two coats at 80 ft² a gallon with 10% extra: 4 five-gallon pails. A rough, old surface soaks up more, so check the label. The driveway sealer calculator does your own area.
Sealer for common driveways
Two coats, 80 ft² a gallon, 10% extra:
| Driveway | Area | Gallons | 5-gallon pails |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20 × 10 ft | 200 ft² | 5.5 | 2 |
| 30 × 12 ft | 360 ft² | 9.9 | 2 |
| 50 × 12 ft | 600 ft² | 16.5 | 4 |
| 80 × 12 ft | 960 ft² | 26.4 | 6 |
| 100 × 16 ft | 1600 ft² | 44.0 | 9 |
The coverage on the label matters
The same 50 × 12 ft driveway, two coats:
| Coverage | Gallons | Pails |
|---|---|---|
| 50 ft² a gallon | 26.4 | 6 |
| 65 ft² a gallon | 20.3 | 5 |
| 80 ft² a gallon | 16.5 | 4 |
| 100 ft² a gallon | 13.2 | 3 |
An old, rough surface may only reach 50 ft² a gallon, and a new smooth one 100 or more. Use the figure on your sealer's label.
How to prepare and apply it
- Fill cracks over 1/8 inch with crack filler, patch holes, and let the repairs cure.
- Clean the surface thoroughly: sweep, wash, scrub oil stains with degreaser, and let it dry. Sealer will not stick to dirt or oil.
- Apply in dry weather, usually above 50°F, with no rain for 24 hours.
- Pour the sealer in ribbons and spread it with a squeegee, then smooth it with a brush. Thin, even coats dry best.
- Let the first coat dry before the second, and keep traffic off for 24 to 48 hours.
Mistakes to avoid
- Sealing over dirt, oil or loose material.
- Applying one thick coat, which cracks and peels.
- Sealing too soon after paving.
- Working in the hot midday sun or in damp weather.
See also the asphalt driveway calculator and the asphalt driveway materials list. Estimates only: follow the product labels.
Frequently asked questions
How much sealer do I need for a 50x12 driveway?
About 16.5 gallons for two coats at 80 ft² a gallon with 10% extra, which is 4 pails of 5 gallons. One coat needs 8.3 gallons.
How many square feet does a 5 gallon pail cover?
Between about 250 and 500 ft² per coat, depending on the product and the surface. At 80 ft² a gallon it is 400 ft² per coat.
How many coats should I apply?
Two thin coats are better than one thick one, with the first allowed to dry before the second.
When can I seal new asphalt?
Wait 6 to 12 months so the oils have cured. Sealing sooner can trap them.
How often should I reseal?
Every 2 to 3 years protects the surface from sun, water and oil.
More guides
Tools & materials for this project
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Estimates only. Quantities depend on your materials, site and supplier. Confirm important numbers before you order, and follow local building codes for anything structural.