Weather phenomena can be aggressive on asphalt driveways. Erosion due to wind and rain can cause cracks on the surface, which then turn into large cracks; eventually, holes form that damage the car or cause accidents. The best solution to this problem is prevention by applying a sealant. If you want to extend the life of your driveway and improve its appearance, follow the instructions described in this article.
Steps
Step 1. Take your driveway measurements to assess how much sealant to buy
Typically, it is sold in 20-liter buckets; one is enough to treat 120 m2.
Step 2. Buy the materials
You will need sealant, crevice filler or putty, a gardening trowel, and a scrub brush; all these products are available in hardware stores.
If the cracks are large enough, you may need to purchase construction joints. If they are less than 12 mm deep, the rubbery filler that is sold in tubes is more than enough; if they are deeper, you have to use a real patch
Step 3. Locate the openings and repair them with the product of your choice
Squeeze the tube to release the grout, fill the cracks and level the surface with the rest of the driveway; if you need to use the joints for the larger gaps, use a trowel to spread them and make sure they are flush with the surface.
Step 4. Let the filler dry for one day
Step 5. Clean the driveway
Use a scrubbing brush to remove dust and other residues; the sealant must be applied to a clean surface to work properly.
Step 6. Moisten it with a garden hose
But be careful not to pour too much water to the point of forming puddles.
Step 7. Prepare the sealant
Follow the manufacturer's directions for mixing methods and times.
Step 8. Spread it in thin layers
Use the scrub brush to spread it evenly across the driveway.
Keep stirring the mixture to prevent it from separating into the various ingredients as it stagnates
Step 9. Add a second coat
This is a must for old or badly maintained driveways.
Step 10. Wait for the driveway to dry
It can take up to 48 hours. Do not drive it until the sealant is dry to the touch; if it is not well hardened, it cannot do its protective work.
Advice
- Protect the edges between the driveway and the concrete or lawn using duct tape; the sealant tends to splash everywhere during application.
- Pour the product on the highest area of the driveway; the force of gravity saves you some work and makes it easier to apply.
- Remove any weeds or grass that is along the edge of the driveway to spread the sealant more easily and achieve a better result.
Warnings
- When you buy sealant make sure it is specific for driveways and not tar for roofing.
- Do not seal the driveway on days when the temperature is below 10 ° C.
- Do not spread the product if the weather forecast shows rain in the next two days; the water completely defeats the work you just did. In humid periods, consider drying times longer than a few days.
