Winter’s frost can wreak havoc on an asphalt driveway. With some regular maintenance, you can extend the life of your driveway and save a bundle in replacement costs. It is generally recommended that you patch and seal your driveway every 3 years. Here are the basics on how to go about doing that:
Materials
- Liquid crack filler
- Cold mix asphalt patch
- Liquid sealer
Tools
- Cold chisel
- Hammer
- Whisk broom
- Garden trowel
- 4×4 post
- Broom/squeegee
- Disposable clothes
Method
Watch the weather forecast. You will need a day that does not dip below 50°F, and there should be no rain in the forecast for at least 24 hours.
Before starting, sweep up dirt and debris off driveway, and apply degreaser to any oil stains. If you don’t, you run the chance of stains seeping through the driveway sealer. Rinse every thing with a garden hose.
Tip – Don’t forget to move your car out to the street (unless you feel like using your bicycle for the next couple days.)
Eroding edges and tree roots running under the asphalt require major repair work. Call a professional asphalt contractor to handle these situations.
Cracks – Pull any weeds growing out of cracks and try to sweep out as much dirt as possible. For cracks up to 1 inch use crack filler, any over an inch, use asphalt patch. Pour crack filler until flush with surface or just below.
Holes – Use a hammer and cold chisel to cut out any loose material. Try to square out the corners. Don’t be surprised if the hole becomes much larger. Clean out all debris with a whisk broom. Use an old trowel to fill the hole with asphalt patch adding one inch at a time and tamping with your 4×4 between layers until final tamp is flush with the driveway’s surface.
Sealing – With both the asphalt patch and crack filler, take note of the manufacturer’s suggested drying time before applying the sealer. Give the sealer a good stir before use. Starting from a corner of the drive, pour some onto the surface and use your disposable broom and squeegee to spread the sealer. It’s usually easier to spread about 20 square feet at a time rather than long thin lengths. Stay off the driveway until the sealer is completely cured, usually 24 to 48 hours.
In addition to giving your driveway some added life, you’ll certainly enjoy the “like-new” appearance you just gave it.