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Damages to asphalt driveways are progressive and with constant use, they are susceptible to breakdowns like fissures, cracks and potholes. Nature also plays a big role in its degradation with hard sun or heavy rains. Oils and grease too can leave the surface of asphalt driveways corroded. In order to maintain the asphalt driveways, it is essential to repair and renew it at least every couple of years. To give it a renewed look, the repair has a two part process – cleaning and sealing. It should be noted that before starting work on the driveway make sure that the ground temperature is at least 45 degrees Fahrenheit or more and that there are no rains expected for 3 days, as no rain should fall on the repaired surface for at least 2 hours after the work is done. For sealing, be mindful of buying the right product. An asphalt driveway sealer will do an excellent work. Make sure that you do not pick up asphalt roofing cement or compounds as these can harm your driveway rather than sealing it.
Cleaning
This is the most important part of the repair work. Start with uprooting outgrown grass from the fissures and cracks and even off the edges. Then using a stiff bristled brush clean any oil, grease or gas spill stains. Use only detergents available especially for asphalt driveways. Now with a push broom, sweep and clean the surface of the driveway. For large cracks, or depressions in the surface, fill them with patching compounds to make the surface even and smooth. Take a garden hose with spray nozzle and rinse the entire surface with a vigorous spray of water. This will help to remove and left out dirt and small debris. You can also use a pressure washer if that is available as that helps in rinsing the surface more effectively. Leave the cleaned surface to dry out completely before setting on the next step. Inspect the surface for any residue of dirt and remove it, as even a little debris can leave the final sealing messy.
Sealing
Before starting to seal the driveway, premix the sealer by turning it upside down with the lid still on the container and after opening the lid keep stirring it often to keep it well mixed. Start at one corner of the driveway and try to seal it in small patches of maybe 10-20 square feet rather than long narrow strips. Pour the asphalt driveway sealer on the surface and apply the sealer with a long handled application brush or squeegee in thin and overlapping coats. Repeat this process for the entire driveway until the entire surface is evenly covered. The minimum time required to dry out the driveway is 24 hours and during this time, do not allow anyone or any vehicle on the surface.
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