3 Best Methods to Protect and Maintain Your Driveway

Posted by Rob A on August 13th, 2019

Applying a driveway crack sealer is an excellent way to protect your pavement from the weather, erosion, extreme heat, moisture, chemicals, salts, and more. As its name suggests, it works by sealing the surface to prevent various elements from getting in between the cracks. It also reduces wear and tear, as well as creates a beautiful, even coating. You can also use it as a reasonable driveway crack repair.

If you seal your asphalt the right way, your driveway can last 15 to 20 years with just a bit of maintenance and cleaning off dirt and debris. Here are some valuable tips to maximize the benefits of the sealer you use.

Application

Give your asphalt at least six months to one year to cure or set. This allows the oil to evaporate and your driveway to harden. Without the right hardness, coating your pavement with a sealant is useless.

Choose warm weather, with plenty of good sunshine for several upcoming days, so the sealer has sufficient time to dry, bond, and cure completely. Moisture and rain can significantly affect the drying process and the final quality of the sealer. Coat your asphalt at least 48 hours before it rains.

Generally, the temperature should never drop below 50 degrees Fahrenheit while applying the sealer. After applying your first coat, wait for at least 24 to 72 hours before coating again, and follow the same method for the subsequent layers.

Sealer Type

There are four types of sealers. Fast-dry sealers are the best option if you are sealing a parking lot or a driveway. It will be ready for foot traffic after 1 hour, and for vehicle traffic in 24 hours after application.

Acrylic sealers are mostly made from polymers and acrylic synthetic compounds. They are considered environmentally friendly and have fewer health risks to users, because they do not contain any petroleum products.

Coal tar sealers are the most popular. They leave a shiny finish. This type is water-based and manufactured with coal tar, mixed with strengthening additives, and other polymers.

Asphalt emulsions are environmentally-friendly alternatives. They do not cause skin irritation, smell better, and work better in preventing oxidation and preserving air quality.

To apply any of these sealers, always read the manual and follow the manufacturer’s instructions to get the best results.

Maintenance

Re-application will depend on the type of sealer you used, and the foot and vehicle traffic. You will usually have to coat your pavement every 2 to 3 years, with normal traffic. For heavy use, once a year is recommended. Generally, it’s time to reseal your driveway if you can see the color of the individual stones on the surface of your asphalt.

If you want to protect and maintain your pavement, apply your driveway crack sealer the right way, and maintain it properly.