An asphalt driveway is an investment that is well worth protecting. A little time spent patching and sealing can extend the life of the blacktop and improve the curb appeal—and value—of your home or business. There’s no better time of year to restore asphalt than right now, before winter arrives with its punishing weather and subfreezing temperatures.
But before you apply a topcoat sealer or contact an asphalt contractor in Greenville, NC, you must inspect the driveway and make the necessary repairs. Here’s how.
1.Look for trouble spots
Carefully inspect every square foot of your driveway and make note of any cracks, oily stains, potholes, or areas that are crumbling. Pay particular attention to the very end and edges of the driveway, which are especially susceptible to damage.
2.Scrub away stains
If you find oil or grease stains, try removing them with hot, soapy water and a stiff-bristle scrub brush. If that fails, dissolve the stains with a degreaser
3.Fill in cracksMost driveways will have at least a few cracks, which must be repaired before you apply an asphalt sealer. It’s important to repair all cracks, even the smallest ones. If you don’t, they’ll only grow wider and longer over time.
4.Patch potholes
If your driveway’s cracks have widened into potholes, you’re in for a different fix. Repair potholes, deep depressions, and crumbled areas with blacktop patch. Blacktop patch is essentially ready-to-use asphalt that comes in a bag.
5.Prep the driveway for sealing
The last step before applying a sealer is to thoroughly clean the driveway. Start with a push broom and sweep away the heaviest debris. Then use a garden hose, or better yet, a pressure washer to rinse the surface clean of all loose dirt, sand, and grit.
If you need help prepping your asphalt before sealing, we can help. Asphalt Solutions is the best asphalt contractors in the Greenville, NC area. We are a full service paving company, equipped and willing to handle even your toughest pavement problems. We provide professional services with a personal touch. Every customer is important.