An Attractive Driveway

Asphalt is a durable material for your driveway, but it is susceptible to weather. The constant expanding and contracting from weather elements can lead to cracks. If those cracks aren't taken care of, weeds can start to grow through, and an entire breakdown of your asphalt driveway is a possibility. Cracks in asphalt should be taken care of immediately to prevent this from happening (as a major repair or a new driveway can be expensive). See below for tips on how to repair these cracks.

Here's What You'll Need:

• Leaf blower (or broom)
• Squeegee
• Asphalt crack filler
• Asphalt sealer
• Asphalt patch
• Metal scraper
• Bleach
• Power washer

Instructions:

1. Start by cleaning off your driveway. You want it clean and clear of all dirt, debris, and stains. You can spray it off using the power washer, then follow up with the bleach if you have any grease, paint, or other stains. Allow your driveway to dry completely, then use the broom or leaf blower to be sure you have grass clippings and leaves off of your driveway as well. If you have any weeds growing through your cracks, spray the weeds with a weed killer and remove the weeds and roots. Be sure to dig out all of the debris left over from the weeds before you begin filling the cracks. Otherwise, these weeds can grow back through.
2. For smaller cracks, you can use asphalt filler. It fills in the cracks easily with a small tip, but you want to be sure to spread the fill out using the metal scraper. For larger cracks, you need to use asphalt patch. This should be done when it is fairly warm outside so the patch is warmed up enough to be pressed into the crack/hole. Use the back of a shovel to help press it into the crack/hole, or you can use a tamper. Allow the patch to cure completely before driving on it. Read the manufacturer's directions for curing time.
3. Once you have your cracks filled, you can seal your entire driveway to help keep those cracks from coming back. Clean your driveway again using your leaf blower to get rid of any debris.
4. Using a squeegee (as well as old shoes, old clothing, gloves and protective glasses), begin spreading the asphalt sealer starting at the top of your driveway, working your way back and forth, to make your way down to the bottom. Be sure to spread the sealer evenly all the way down your driveway. To help protect any decorative elements surrounding your driveway (such as sidewalks, your garage floor edge, or landscape blocks), use a paintbrush to apply the sealer to the edge of your driveway.
5. Be sure to block off your driveway to keep anyone from parking in the driveway until the sealer cures. Read the manufacturer's directions for exact curing time (it's usually 24-48 hours).

For more information, contact a paving contractor in your area.