Asphalt driveway sealing is a very critical process of ensuring durability, appearance, and life span of the driveway. A maintained driveway does not only improve the curb appeal of your home but it also protects your investment by offering protection against cracks, damage and deterioration due to elements. The sealing is not very difficult, though it demands preparation, tools and application. This guide will take you through sealing your asphalt driveway in a way that will make it last years.
Why Seal an Asphalt Driveway?
It is necessary to know why you should seal your driveway before delving into the process. An asphalt is porous and this implies it takes up water, oil and other elements that may make it weak in the long run.
Sealing your driveway creates a protective barrier that:
Avoids destruction: Shields against the rough conditions of water, salty, and UV rays.
Enhances beauty: Makes your driveway even and smooth in appearance which increases its beauty.
Increases life expectancy: Lowers chances of cracking, holes and weathering that may result into expensive repairs.
Easier maintenance: A driveway, which is sealed, is easy to clean and maintain.
When Is the Best Time to Seal an Asphalt Driveway?
The effectiveness of sealing depends a lot on timing. Sealing an asphalt driveway is best done during the warm months, usually late spring, summer or early fall.
Here are some key factors to keep in mind:
Temperature: The air temperature at which sealing is to be done should be between 50 and 85 F. In case it is cold, the sealant can fail to bond. On the same note, when it is too hot, the sealant might dry up before the application process has been done appropriately.
Dry Weather: It is important that there should be no rain in the next 24 to 48 hours after sealing. A dry time enables curing of sealant and bonding.
New Driveways: In case you have a newly paved driveway, you should wait between 6 and 12 months before sealing it. This allows the asphalt to fully cure and harden.
Steps to Seal an Asphalt Driveway
Having learned the reasons why sealing should be done and when to do so, it is time to have a look at the process of sealing your asphalt driveway step by step.
Step 1: Clean the Driveway
Cleaning the surface is the first and most crucial thing in sealing an asphalt driveway. The sealant may fail to stick due to dirt, debris, leaves and oil stains.
Clean the Surface: Brush off the dirt, dust and leaves with a broom. Make sure the entire surface is clear.
Pressure Wash: To get a deeper clean, apply a pressure washer to clear out hard to remove dirt, algae and grime. This step is particularly useful for cleaning oil stains.
Get Rid of Oil Spots: In case you have oil spots in your driveway, you should utilize a degreaser or asphalt cleaner to eat away the oil and eliminate it.
Step 2: Fill Cracks and Holes
You should seal any cracks or holes in your driveway before the application of the sealant. Covering cracks without sealing them will only lead to an increase in the size of cracks.
Clean the Cracks: Clean the cracks with the help of a wire brush and eliminate any dirt or debris.
Fill the Cracks: Fill in crack with an asphalt crack filler. Depending on the size of the cracks, you can apply it either by a caulking gun or a squeeze bottle. When filled, spread the filler using a putty knife, and leave to dry.
Fill Holes: In the case of holes, you may fill it up using cold patch asphalt. Put the cold patch into the hole, press it and smooth the surface in such a way that it fits the rest of the driveway.
Step 3: Choose the Right Sealant
The asphalt sealants in the market are of different types and selecting the appropriate one to use in your driveway is the best way to get the best results.
The two main types are:
Coal Tar-Based Sealant: It is very effective in oil and water resistance. It is strong and long-lasting without the tendency to crack, but it can be emitting strong odors and requires more time to dry.
Asphalt-Based Sealant: Less complex to apply and dries quicker although it might not last long as coal tar-based sealants. It’s a good option for less frequent maintenance.
Step 4: Apply the Sealant
After cleaning the driveway and carrying out repairs, you are now in a position to apply the sealant.
Follow these steps:
Mix the Sealant: Now stir the sealant using a mixing stick. This will make sure that any settled particles are re-entered into the mixture.
Pour The Sealant: Pour the sealant in a small area in your driveway beginning with the farthest corner and then moving towards the exit.
Application of the Sealant: Apply the sealant in a smooth way over the surface using a long-handled squeegee or a sealant applicator. Do it in small portions so that the sealant does not dry out before it is spread.
Make the Surface Smooth: Make sure that the sealant is applied in an even and smooth manner and that all small cracks and depressions are covered.
Step 5: Allow the Sealant to Cure
Once the sealant is applied, it is important to be sure that it is cured to give the greatest protection. Curing may take 24-48 hours depending on the weather conditions and the product. In the process, do not drive or walk on the driveway.
Maintenance Tips for Sealed Driveways
In order to maintain your driveway in its best form even after sealing, you should consider the following pieces of advice:
Cleaning: Clean up leaves, dirt and debris regularly to avoid accumulation. Clean the surface with pressure washer after every few months.
Reapplying Sealant: To get the best protection, reapply the sealant after every 2 to 3 years depending on weather conditions and the traffic experienced on the driveway.
Fill Cracks: Check your driveway and seal the cracks when they are still small.