Seal coating is designed to protect asphalt pavements from the damaging effects of the environment, including moisture and ultraviolet oxidation. Protecting pavement with seal coating has basically the same effect as using sun block on your skin or varnish on wood—it slows the destructive effects of our climate. Seal coating also minimizes raveling (the loss of aggregate) and fills minor voids in the surface. Other benefits include creating a uniform color and appearance for all paved asphalt surfaces and increasing the visibility of curbing. Seal coating and re-striping of parking spaces and crosswalks improve traffic flow and enhance public safety.