Sealing Asphalt

Do you happen to have an asphalt driveway? If so, have you noticed how, over time, it may become cracked or damaged? Instead of letting the damage remain, take a little time to repair it. Sealing asphalt is a remarkably easy project. The only draw back is that it can often be fairly dirty, smelly, and time consuming work. Follow these methods for both small patching jobs, and larger repairs.

Small patches.

1. Clean damaged area. Always begin by cleaning the damaged area of your asphalt driveway. This means that you need to not only sweep, but also vacuum it as well. Once you have done that, completely saturate the area with water from your garden hose to help wash away any remaining debris. For deeper holes (about two inches in depth or more) add a little bit of gravel to help make up the difference.
2. Apply patching material. Using a trowel, or garden spade, apply a little bit of asphalt patching material to the hole. This material can be purchased at any local home improvement store. Utilize a heat gun to melt the material according to the directions of the manufacturer. Make sure that you apply enough of the material to fill up the hole completely.
3. Tamp the material. While the patching material is still warm, begin to tamp it down so it is level with the rest of your drive way. The easiest way to do this is by simply placing a cinderblock on top of the patching material. If necessary, reapply some of the patching material until you are completely level with the driveway.

Large repairs.

1. Clean the entire surface. For larger projects, you should clean the entire surface of your driveway. Use a large scrub brush, asphalt cleaner or detergent, and some water. Scrub the entire surface, and then rinse the driveway clean. Allow the driveway to completely dry before proceeding.
2. Fill small cracks. Apply some patching caulk to any small cracks with a caulking gun. For any cracks that are over 1/4 inch deep, apply a little bit of sand to before applying the caulking. For wider cracks, use the same process described above. Use a putty knife to help push the caulking material into the cracks.
3. Spread sealing compound. Prepare your sealing compound according to the directions from the manufacturer. Apply the compound across the entire driveway by using a large brush, garage broom, or squeegee. Be sure that you are working in sections, to ensure that you cover the entire area evenly.
4. Allow compound to dry. Before you begin to apply the second coating, make sure that you allow the first coat to completely dry. Once you have applied the second coat, make sure that you allow the driveway to completely dry before you use it at all.