Simple Driveway Upkeep You Can Do Yourself
If you have just had asphalt paving placed on your driveway, you will soon be enjoying the many benefits it provides including a smooth surface and the ability to melt snow and ice quickly. There are some maintenance steps you can do on your own to keep your asphalt driveway looking sharp for years to come.
Keep It Clean
It is important to keep debris off of the surface of your asphalt driveway as much as possible to help keep it in nice-looking condition. If leaves or twigs are left on the driveway, the overall appearance will become blotchy as discoloring will occur from sunlight only being exposed to some portions of the area. Debris on an asphalt driveway will also be an area where water collects, causing the material to weaken underneath these areas. Use a sweep broom every week to remove any surface debris from your driveway. For dirt that appears to be caked on the surface, use a pressure washer to remove completely.
Make Needed Repairs
When you notice an area of your driveway that has cracking or crumbling within the asphalt, you will want to quickly make a repair so it does not escalate into a larger area of decay. Clean the affected area so all debris is out of the crevice. Push pieces of crushed gravel into the crevice and tamp it into place using the end of a screwdriver or putty knife. Use rubberized asphalt sealant to cover the gravel. Use a putty knife to spread the material evenly over the surface of your driveway so it is less noticeable. Allow to harden completely before driving your vehicle over the area.
Add Some Protection
It is a good idea to add a sealant to your driveway every few years to keep it protected from harmful elements. Sealant should be applied when the temperatures are above 60 degrees Fahrenheit and there is no precipitation in the forecast for several days. First clean the entire driveway with a pressure washer so it is free of debris and allow it to dry. Sealant is applied using a brush and squeegee tool. Dip the soft-bristled broom side of the tool into the sealant and sweep it into place over a portion of your driveway. The squeegee is used to pull the material along the surface so it is applied uniformly and thinly. The sealant will leave your driveway with a darker appearance.
For more information, contact companies like Asphalt Maintenance.
Share