How To Repair Cracks And Seal Your Driveway
If you're a homeowner, you may notice that over time your driveway can develop cracks in the asphalt. A great way to mend those cracks is to use asphalt crack filler and sealer, which will make your driveway look new again. This is a job that you can easily do yourself with the proper tools and it will save you some money in the process.
To begin you'll need some basic tools and materials, which can be bought at your local hardware store. These include a pressure washer or a garden hose with a nozzle, as well as enough sealer to cover your entire driveway, a long squeegee, some oil remover and cleaner to clean your driveway. Before you begin, be sure to check the weather forecast as you'll need at least two days of good weather without rain or damp conditions. Additionally, you'll need to turn your buckets of sealer upside down one day before you start the job. This will allow the sealer to pre-mix before application.
Clean the driveway The first step is to clean your driveway. Start by removing any weeds from the cracks and using your oil remover to get rid of any oil stains on the driveway as these stains could show through after you apply the sealer. When the stains are removed, use your driveway cleaner and a pressure washer or hose to thoroughly clean the driveway surface.
Apply the crack filler and sealer When your driveway is clean and dry, use your asphalt crack filler to fill in any cracks and smooth them over using a putty knife or a trowel. It is now time to apply the sealer.
First, be sure to mix the sealer and before applying it put on some old shoes and clothes to prevent any damage or stains. Start at one end of the driveway and pour the sealer horizontally across it. Use your squeegee or a broom to spread the sealer as thin as possible. Work your way from end to the other, pouring more sealer and continuing to spread it thin using your squeegee or broom. Allow the sealer to dry for a day and then add another layer with the same technique, working vertically across your driveway this time. This will allow the surface to look balanced.
Leave it for an additional day and then check it by rubbing the driveway with a white cloth. If the cloth comes away looking black then it still needs more time to dry. If not, then your driveway is sealed and can be used as normal.
To learn more, contact a company like Gopher State Sealcoat.