8 Ways Proper Care For Your Asphalt Driveway

If you own a home with an asphalt driveway, keeping it well-maintained is vital to ensuring that it looks great and lasts time. If you work with a highly experienced and reliable asphalt company, they will work ethically and install a durable and long-lasting driveway. However, you will still have to care for the driveway to ensure it stays new for a long time. Caring for asphalt driveways is quite different from concrete or stone, so it’s essential to understand the best practices. That’s why we bring this blog to inform you of ways to keep your asphalt driveway in tip-top shape. Read on to learn more-

Regular Cleaning

The first step to caring for your asphalt driveway is regular cleaning. Removing any dirt or debris accumulated on the surface is essential. It can quickly be done by sweeping away leaves, branches, and other materials with a broom or blower. Rinse any oil stains or buildups that could cause damage over time. Using a hose with pressure set on low will ensure that the water won’t seep into cracks or crevices and cause further damage.

Seal Coating

Another essential step in caring for your asphalt driveway is the seal coating. It helps protect the surface from wear and tear caused by weather conditions, car tires, and other environmental factors like UV rays and contaminants in the air. The top asphalt company recommends applying a seal coat every two years. However, if you notice any signs of wear and tear before then, it may be necessary to use it more frequently. When applying the seal coat, make sure that you follow manufacturer instructions carefully to ensure optimal results.

Filling Cracks

One of the most critical steps for asphalt driveway maintenance is filling cracks as soon as they appear. The sooner you fill the cracks, the lower the chances of damage to the driveway. By filling the cracks, you ensure that there isn’t further damage to the asphalt driveways due to water seeping into them and causing erosion over time. Start by cleaning out any debris from within cracks with a wire brush before filling them with an epoxy crack filler explicitly made for asphalt driveways (not concrete). Smooth the excess product before allowing plenty of time to dry completely before driving on it again.          

Repair Potholes

Filling potholes as soon as they appear is the best way to prevent further damage and keep your driveway looking smooth. You can fill potholes using patching material, which is readily available at most hardware stores. Clean the area around the pothole, fill it with patching material, and tamp it down until it is level with the surrounding surface. It’s essential to remember that potholes are often a sign of more extensive damage to the driveway. If you have multiple potholes or the driveway is in disrepair, consult a professional asphalt company and request them for resurfacing or replacement.

Avoid Spillage

Oil and gasoline spills from vehicles can cause significant damage to the surface of an asphalt driveway if not cleaned up promptly. These substances can penetrate the driveway’s surface, causing it to weaken and eventually deteriorate. Additionally, they can cause unsightly stains that can be difficult to remove. It’s essential to act quickly To clean up oil and gasoline spills. You can use a degreaser and a stiff brush to remove the spill and any excess material from the driveway’s surface. After cleaning the area, rinse it thoroughly with water to remove any remaining residue.

You can also undertake steps to avoid such spillage by not parking vehicles prone to leaks on the driveway, such as older vehicles or vehicles with high oil consumption. 

Prun the Trees

Trees and shrubs can be a beautiful addition to any landscape, but their roots can cause damage if not correctly maintained. As the roots of trees and shrubs grow, they can penetrate the driveway’s surface and cause it to lift and crack. To prevent damage from tree and shrub roots, it’s important to regularly trim the trees and shrubs and keep them away from the driveway. It will prevent the roots from growing under the surface and causing damage. You can also consider planting trees and shrubs with non-invasive root systems, such as maple, dogwood, or cherry trees.

It’s also important to avoid planting trees or shrubs too close to the driveway, as this can cause their roots to grow under the surface and cause damage. A good rule of thumb is to plant trees and shrubs at least 10-15 feet away from the driveway to give their roots enough room to grow without causing damage.

Snow and Ice Removal

Snow and ice can be a significant problem for asphalt driveways, as repeated freeze-thaw cycles can cause damage to the surface. When snow and ice freeze on the driveway, they can expand and cause the surface to crack. Also, as these melt and refreeze, they can cause the surface to become rough and uneven. Therefore, it’s vital to remove them promptly from the driveway. You can use a snow shovel, snow blower, or de-icing salt to remove the snow and ice and clear the driveway. 

De-icing salts, such as calcium chloride or sodium chloride, can help to melt snow and ice and prevent them from refreezing. However, using these products sparingly and under expert guidance is essential, as they can cause damage to the driveway if used in excess or left to accumulate on the surface.

Professional Maintenance

Hiring a professional contractor to perform routine maintenance and repairs is a wise investment in your asphalt driveway. A professional contractor has the experience and knowledge necessary to properly maintain and repair your driveway, ensuring that it remains in good condition for years to come.

During routine maintenance, a professional contractor will inspect the driveway for any signs of wear and tear, such as cracks or holes, and take steps to repair them before they become more serious. They may also clean the driveway and apply a sealant to protect the surface from weather, spills, and other potential sources of damage.

In a Nutshell

Proper care for an asphalt driveway requires regular cleaning, sealing every two years (or sooner if needed), etc., to maintain its durability. Following these simple steps regularly can help ensure your driveway lasts longer while looking its best. 

Contact Roadseal Civil to build a robust, durable and long-lasting asphalt or concrete driveway.