How Much Does It Cost to Seal an Asphalt Driveway in Ontario?

Sealing your asphalt driveway is an affordable way to protect it from weather damage, extend its lifespan, and keep your property looking clean and well-maintained. If you’re wondering how much does it cost to seal an asphalt driveway in Ontario, the average price typically ranges from $1.75 to $2.10 per square foot, with total costs usually falling between $394 and $1,212, depending on the size and condition of the driveway.

Besides protection, choosing the right sealant also affects the overall look of your driveway, which can influence curb appeal and even property value. There are four main types of sealants to consider: acrylic sealers, coal tar sealers, asphalt emulsion sealers, and oil-based sealers. Each offers different benefits, price points, and lifespans.

This guide breaks down driveway sealing costs Ontario homeowners can expect, including material and labour costs, sealant differences, longevity, and additional factors that may influence pricing.

Average Material and Labour Cost to Seal a Driveway in Ontario

If you’re asking how much it costs to seal a driveway per square foot, most homeowners pay:

  • $1.75–$2.10 per sq. ft. for full sealing (materials + labour)
  • $0.15–$1.45 per sq. ft. for materials only

Contractors typically include a minimum service fee, which means small driveways may fall slightly above the average price per square foot.

On average, driveway sealing in Ontario costs $798, but the typical range sits between $394 and $1,212. This includes labour, materials, and basic preparation. Larger projects—such as long driveways, commercial lots, or layouts with complex shapes—can exceed this range.

Before choosing a sealant, it’s important to consider durability, weather exposure, appearance, and maintenance frequency. These factors influence asphalt sealing cost and overall value.

How Long Does Each Asphalt Sealant Last?

Below is an ordered list of how long each sealant lasts, from longest to shortest lifespan:

  • Acrylic sealants generally last the longest, usually 5–10 years before needing additional maintenance.
  • Oil-based sealers generally last 3–6 years.
  • Coal tar usually lasts 3–5 years.
  • Asphalt emulsion sealers typically have the shortest lifespan, and you can expect to need additional maintenance every 1–3 years.

It’s worth mentioning that low-traffic areas, such as a driveway, lend themselves to longer sealant lifespans, which may add a year or two between repairs.

Furthermore, oil-based sealers (including coal tar) tend to do better in colder climates with longer winters (like Ontario) than water-based asphalt sealers, which is something worth considering when it comes to the longevity of your driveway. Acrylic sealers do the best in hot climates of the four listed.

driveway sealing

Benefits of Each Sealant Type

Choosing the right sealant is key to protecting your driveway and managing long-term maintenance costs. Each product offers different advantages in durability, appearance, and performance in Ontario’s climate. Below is a clear breakdown of the benefits of each sealant type to help you choose the best fit for your driveway.

Coal tar sealers are highly resistant to oil and chemical spills, making them ideal for homeowners who frequently service their vehicles in the driveway.

Average material cost: $0.15–$0.45 per sq. ft.

Benefits:

  • Strong chemical and stain resistance
  • Lowest upfront cost
  • Dark, long-lasting colour finish

Oil-based sealers offer solid durability and deeper penetration, which helps protect asphalt during Ontario’s freeze-thaw cycles.

Average material cost: $0.50 per sq. ft.

Benefits:

  • Performs well during long winters
  • More flexible than water-based options
  • Good mid-range price point

Acrylic sealers deliver excellent UV protection and a glossy look. They are considered the most visually appealing option.

Average material cost: $0.95–$1.45 per sq. ft.

Benefits:

  • Best shine and appearance
  • Longest lifespan of all sealants
  • Great for high-sun exposure areas

Asphalt emulsion sealers are water-based and have fewer chemicals, which makes them environmentally friendly.

Average material cost: $0.30–$0.40 per sq. ft.

Benefits:

  • Low odour
  • Lower emissions
  • Safer around landscaping and runoff

While more eco-friendly, these sealers usually require more frequent maintenance.

Average Price of Each Sealant Type (Summary)

Below is a quick reference of what you can expect when considering cost to seal asphalt driveway depending on the product you choose:

  • Coal Tar: $0.15–$0.45 (material), $1.75–$2.10 with labour
  • Oil-Based: ~$0.50 (material), $1.75–$2.10 with labour
  • Acrylic: $0.95–$1.45 (material), $2.00–$2.55+ with labour
  • Asphalt Emulsion: $0.30–$0.40 (material), $1.75–$2.10 with labour
driveway sealing
driveway sealing

Additional Driveway Sealing Costs in Ontario

Another possible expense that factors into the asphalt sealing cost is the current condition of your driveway. If additional prep work is necessary due to damage, such as patching or crack filling, you can expect this to be reflected in the overall price.

Beyond material and labour, several factors affect how much does it cost to seal a driveway per square foot:

If crack filling, pothole patching, or surface leveling is needed, these repairs increase total cost.

Cleaning, degreasing, and pressure washing may be required before sealing.

Curved, sloped, or multi-section driveways require more time and materials.

Most companies in Ontario charge a minimum to cover labour and travel.

Additional treatments or special applications may be added to the final invoice.

Overall Asphalt Sealing Cost in Ontario

Choosing the right asphalt sealer depends on your priorities, whether it’s durability, eco-friendliness, or aesthetics.

  • Coal tar is the most cost-effective and resistant to chemicals, while acrylics deliver premium UV protection and shine for higher budgets.
  • Oil-based options perform well in colder climates, and asphalt emulsion is the most environmentally friendly but requires more frequent maintenance.

Keep in mind that price varies by materials, surface condition, and driveway complexity, with most asphalt sealing in Ontario ranging from $798 to $1212 total.

Get a Quote from Driveway Sealing

For reliable sealing, long-lasting results, and clear pricing, contact Driveway Sealing for a quote tailored to your driveway.

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