Driveway Sealer Calculator
Estimate sealer needed for an asphalt driveway.
Default 2
Default 80 per coat
Results update as you type.
How it works
Sealcoating protects an asphalt driveway from water, UV, and oil damage and restores its dark finish, and this calculator estimates how much sealer to buy. You enter the driveway area in square feet, the number of coats you plan to apply, and the coverage rate per gallon, and it returns the gallons needed and the number of 5-gallon buckets. Coverage varies by product and surface: a smooth, previously sealed driveway needs less, while rough or porous old asphalt soaks up more, so the first coat often covers less area than the second. A typical rate is around 80 square feet per gallon per coat, and two coats are standard for good protection and appearance. To find your area, multiply the driveway's length by its width; for irregular shapes, break it into rectangles and add them. It is wise to buy a little extra so you do not run out near the end, especially on a thirsty first coat. Sealer should be applied in dry, mild weather and allowed to cure fully before driving on it. Enter your driveway area, coats, and coverage to see how much sealer to buy.
Gallons = area × coats ÷ coverage per gallon
The sealer needed equals the driveway area multiplied by the number of coats, divided by how many square feet each gallon covers per coat. Dividing the total gallons by five and rounding up gives the number of standard 5-gallon buckets to buy for the job.
Source:Coating coverage estimate
We review all our tools from time to time to ensure accuracy.
Worked example
How to use this calculator
- 1
Enter your values
Enter driveway area.
- 2
Adjust the options
Adjust number of coats and coverage per gallon if they apply — sensible defaults are already set.
- 3
Read your result
Sealer needed updates instantly as you type — no button to press.
Frequently asked questions
How much driveway sealer do I need?
Multiply your driveway area by the number of coats, then divide by the coverage per gallon. An 800-square-foot driveway with two coats at 80 square feet per gallon needs 20 gallons, or four 5-gallon buckets. Rough or porous asphalt absorbs more, so buy a little extra to avoid running short on the first coat.
How many coats of sealer should I apply?
Two coats are standard for most driveways, giving durable, even protection and a rich dark finish. A single coat may suffice on a driveway sealed recently and in good condition, while badly weathered surfaces benefit from two. Always let the first coat cure fully before applying the second, following the product's recommended drying time.
Why does the first coat use more sealer?
Old, dry, or porous asphalt absorbs sealer into its surface, so the first coat soaks in and covers less area per gallon than expected. The second coat sits on the now-sealed surface and spreads further. This is why coverage rates are approximate and why buying a little extra sealer for the thirsty first coat is a good idea.
What weather is best for sealing a driveway?
Apply sealer on a dry day with temperatures above about 50 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit and no rain forecast for 24 hours. Mild, sunny conditions help the sealer cure properly. Avoid sealing in extreme heat, which can make it dry too fast, or when dew or rain is likely, which can ruin an uncured coat.
How often should I seal my driveway?
Most asphalt driveways benefit from resealing every two to three years, though high-traffic or harsh-climate driveways may need it sooner. Seal when the surface looks gray and faded or small cracks appear, but not too often, as excessive layers can peel. Regular sealing at sensible intervals greatly extends the life of the asphalt.