How to Keep Your Asphalt Looking New
A perfectly jet black asphalt driveway helps any house look more distinguished and well cared for, but seasonal temperature changes and overuse can crack and penetrate even the most impressive looking blacktop. And while tiny hairline cracks don’t seem like anything other than a minor issue, they eventually develop into major rifts with weeds pushing their way through. If water ends up penetrating the asphalt surface, it can undermine the entire base structure of the driveway, and from there you’re only one deep freeze away from being forced to repave everything.
Small steps and precautions can prove very worthwhile to help your driveway look like it was just paved last week, not last decade.
Inspect Your Existing Driveway
Your neighbors might laugh at you, but carefully walk every inch of your driveway to examine its surface for any cracks. Based on what you find, you’ll want to take specific action. Driveways with nothing but minor hairline cracks can simply be resealed. But any large cracks greater than 1/8-inch wide must be filled with crack filler before any resealing begins.
Small potholes need to be cleaned first and then filled with cold-mix asphalt patch so the surface looks smooth and even when it’s sealed. All of these materials are available at any home center or hardware store, but asphalt construction companies can also complete all of the work for you in no time at all.
Use the Right Type of Asphalt
As long as your driveway is built with the best type of materials, it will last significantly longer than a surface done the cheap and easy way. Hot mix asphalt concrete is always the best bet, and any professional asphalt business can provide this service at a reasonable price.
Clean!
Just like your bathrooms and kitchen, your driveway needs some TLC now and then too! Sweep away debris, remove stains, and scour the surface frequently enough to ensure the asphalt can weather more foot and car traffic without deteriorating.
Your driveway plays a major role in your home’s curb appeal, so you’ll be glad you took a few extra minutes to make it look its best!