As a homeowner with an asphalt driveway, you understand the significance of keeping it in good condition. As time passes, the driveway may develop cracks and deteriorate due to natural causes or harsh weather. The good news is that repairing the asphalt driveway is easy, and you can handle it with the proper tools and techniques.
Read more as we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to repair asphalt driveway in today’s post. By following these steps, you can increase the lifespan of your driveway and keep it looking great for years to come.
Step 1: Inspect The Driveway
Before repairing an asphalt driveway, thoroughly examine it for any indications of damage such as cracks, potholes, or wear and tear. It’s crucial to examine high-traffic regions and locations that are frequently exposed to harsh weather conditions.
Once you have identified the areas that need repair, mark them with spray paint or chalk. This will help you keep track of which areas need attention and prevent you from missing any spots.
Step 2: Clean The Driveway
To prepare for repairing your driveway, make sure you also clean it thoroughly. You can do this by sweeping away any debris or loose asphalt using a broom. Then, use a pressure washer or garden hose to wash the surface of the driveway and remove any dirt, dust, or oil stains.
If you have difficult stains, use a degreaser or a cleaner that is made particularly for asphalt surfaces. After cleaning, remember to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and rinse the driveway’s surface completely.
Step 3: Repair Cracks
After cleaning and drying the driveway, you can begin fixing the cracks. In case of small cracks (less than 1/4 inch wide), you can use a liquid crack filler which is easily available in most home improvement stores. It can be applied with a caulking gun.
If the crack you are trying to fix is bigger, you should use cold patch asphalt repair compound. You can find this product in bags and apply it with a trowel. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and pack the material tightly into the crack.
Step 4: Fill Potholes
If your driveway has potholes, you will need to fill them with a patching compound. This product is similar to the cold patch asphalt repair compound used for cracks but is designed for larger areas of damage.
To fix a pothole, start by removing any loose debris or asphalt from the area around the hole. Next, apply the patching compound evenly with a trowel and smooth it out. Allow the compound to dry completely before driving over it.
Step 5: Sealcoat The Driveway
After fixing the cracks and potholes, the next step is to apply a sealcoat on the driveway. This layer provides protection against UV rays, water, and other environmental elements to prevent future damage.
Sealcoating products are available at many home improvement stores, and you also have the option of hiring a professional. If you choose to do it yourself, it’s important to carefully follow the manufacturer’s instructions and apply the sealcoat evenly.
Step 6: Maintain Your Driveway
Regular maintenance is crucial for your driveway once it has been repaired and sealcoated. This upkeep involves routine cleaning, prompt filling of any new cracks or potholes that occur, and applying a fresh coat of sealant every few years.
Why Hiring A Professional Contractor To Repair Your Driveway Is A Wise Decision To Make
It’s wise to hire a professional contractor for driveway repair since they have the right tools and expertise to do the job correctly and efficiently. They can also give you advice on how to maintain your driveway to make it last longer.
Moreover, professional contractors carry insurance which provides a warranty for any repairs they undertake. In case there is a fault with the repair work, you will be covered under the warranty.
Finally, it is recommended to hire professional contractors who specialize in asphalt driveway repair to prevent potential problems from escalating. They can also provide cost-effective solutions and suggest areas that need attention before they turn into bigger issues.
So for the best results, we recommend you to hire a professional company like HMC Asphalt & Concrete in Lewisville, TX as they offer the highest quality asphalt driveway repair services at competitive prices.
Conclusion
Overall, it’s important to maintain your asphalt driveway to prolong its lifespan and appearance. Although repairing it yourself can be done with the correct tools and techniques, it’s advisable to hire a professional contractor such as HMC Asphalt & Concrete for the best outcome.
By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your driveway is repaired correctly and looks great for a very long time.