Asphalt driveways are a great option for homeowners because they are affordable, durable, and look good. However, all asphalt driveways, even high-quality ones, need to be maintained regularly to stay in good condition. Sealing an asphalt driveway is a crucial part of maintenance. It can help prolong the life of the driveway and prevent expensive repairs later on.
So how to seal asphalt driveway? If you’re interested to know more, we suggest you keep reading as we will guide you through the process of sealing your asphalt driveway in today’s article.
Step 1: Clean The Driveway
Make sure to clean your driveway thoroughly before sealing it. First, use a broom or leaf blower to remove any dirt, debris, or loose asphalt. Then, use a pressure washer to get rid of any tough stains or dirt buildup. You can either rent a pressure washer from a hardware store or hire a professional. After cleaning, allow the driveway to dry completely before continuing.
Step 2: Fill Cracks And Potholes
To maintain the condition of your driveway, it’s necessary to address any cracks or potholes. This will prevent water from seeping through and causing more damage. For cracks smaller than a quarter inch wide, use a crack filler. Alternatively, use a patching compound for larger cracks and potholes. Be sure to carefully follow the manufacturer’s instructions and ensure that the filler or compound is level with the surrounding asphalt.
Step 3: Choose The Right Sealant
It’s important to choose the appropriate sealant for to ensure durability and effectiveness. Coal tar and asphalt emulsion are the two main types. Coal tar provides darker and longer-lasting results, but its application can be hazardous to health and the environment due to harmful chemicals. On the other hand, asphalt emulsion is eco-friendlier and lighter in color, but it may not last as long as coal tar.
Take into account your priorities and select a sealant that fulfills your requirements.
Step 4: Apply The Sealant
To apply the sealant, pick a sealant first and check the temperature, which should be above 50°F. Also, confirm that it won’t rain for the next 48 hours. Start applying the sealant from the top of your driveway using a brush or squeegee, working your way down.
To achieve even coverage, apply the sealant in thin coats. Depending on the driveway’s condition and the sealant type, multiple coats may be necessary. Adhere closely to the manufacturer’s instructions and allow the driveway to dry thoroughly before walking or driving on it.
Step 5: Maintain Your Driveway
To keep your driveway in good condition and make it last longer, there are a few things you should do. After sealing, don’t park any heavy vehicles or equipment on the driveway for at least 24 hours. Clean up any spills or leaks right away to prevent stains. Sweep or use a blower to remove any debris to prevent scratches. It’s also a good idea to reseal your driveway every two to three years.
Resealing is also a necessary process for maintaining an asphalt driveway. If you follow the steps outlined above, you can easily and effectively seal your own asphalt driveway. The process of resealing can be done quickly and easily by following the steps mentioned here. With a little bit of care and maintenance, your asphalt driveway can last long and look great.
Choosing A Professional To Seal Your Driveway
If you’re not confident in your DIY skills or don’t have the time to seal your driveway yourself, consider hiring a professional. Ask for recommendations from friends and family members who have had their driveways sealed. Check online reviews and get quotes from several companies before making a decision. Make sure the contractor has experience sealing asphalt driveways and that they use quality materials and tools.
Or better yet, you can call Productive Asphalt LLC in NJ today as they are the leading asphalt and paving company in the area. They have 20+ years of experience in projects ranging from driveway sealing, to parking lot repair, and more.
Final Thoughts
Sealing your asphalt driveway is an important part of maintaining it and preventing costly repairs in the future. The process may seem intimidating, but if you follow the steps outlined above, you can easily do it yourself. If DIY isn’t for you, consider hiring a professional contractor to get the job done. Whichever option you choose, your asphalt driveway will look like new and last for several years.
We hope that this article has given you some insight into how to seal asphalt driveways. Sealing your driveway is an important part of maintaining it and will help prolong its life by protecting it from the elements.
