Prepping Your Asphalt for Sealing
Do you know that cracked and faded asphalt driveway of yours? Sure, it’s still functional, but it’s seen better days. Give that tired, weathered pavement new life with a fresh coat of asphalt sealer. Applying a quality sealer protects your driveway and renews its dark black color. But to get the best results, you have to do it right. That means carefully cleaning the surface, choosing the right sealer, and using good techniques to apply it. We’ll walk you through the whole process so you can breathe new life into your driveway. With a little time and effort, you’ll be amazed at the transformation. That cracked, sad driveway will look like new again. Let’s get started!
Choosing the Right Asphalt Sealer
Before you can protect your asphalt with a fresh coat of sealant, you need to make sure the surface is clean and ready to bond.
Cleaning the Surface
First, sweep away any dirt or debris with a stiff-bristled broom. Then, scrub any oil stains with a degreaser or dish soap and rinse well with a hose. For tough stains, you may need to scrub with an abrasive pad. Rinse the entire area thoroughly when done cleaning to remove any remaining residue.
Filling Cracks and Holes
Use a crack filler or asphalt patch compound to fill in any cracks wider than 1/4 inch. For potholes or severely damaged areas, apply a patching compound and smooth it out with a trowel. Let all repairs dry completely before sealing, as directed by the product instructions.
Roughing Up Smooth Surfaces
If your asphalt is more than a year or two old, its surface may have become too smooth for good sealant adhesion. In this case, you’ll need to rough up the surface using a pressure washer or scrubbing with sand or a wire brush. This creates tiny grooves and pits for the sealant to grip onto.
With your asphalt prepped and ready, you can now apply an even coat of high-quality asphalt sealant. Two thin coats are better than one thick coat. Apply with a roller or sprayer, waiting for each coat to dry for maximum protection. Your driveway will look like new again in no time!
How to Apply Asphalt Sealer for Best Results
So you’ve decided to seal and protect your asphalt driveway or parking lot – great choice! Now comes the hard part, picking a sealant. There are a few options out there, so how do you know which one is right for your needs?
Asphalt Emulsions
These liquid sealants contain asphalt particles suspended in water and provide a durable, flexible coating. Emulsions are a popular, cost-effective choice for most residential and commercial asphalt. Look for an emulsion with a solids content of at least 30% for best results.
Refined Tar Sealers
Made from distilled coal tars, these sealers offer excellent protection against damage from gas, oil, and chemicals. However, tar sealers typically have a strong odor and can stain surfaces. They may not be the best choice if you have pets or for indoor asphalt.
Acrylic Sealers
Water-based acrylic sealers provide a clear, durable coating and are non-toxic, low-odor, and stain-resistant. Acrylic sealers work well for most asphalt but may require more frequent reapplication. They can also soften asphalt over time.
Polyurethane Sealers
Oil-based polyurethane sealers provide the best protection against damage from chemicals and abrasion. They last the longest between reapplications but have strong odors, can soften asphalt, and may yellow over time. Polyurethane sealers are best for indoor or commercial asphalt that sees heavy use.
In the end, consider how your asphalt will be used and pick a sealer formulated for that specific purpose. The right product, properly applied, will help keep your asphalt looking and performing its best for years to come.
Sharon Howe is a creative person with diverse talents. She writes engaging articles for WonderWorldSpace.com, where she works as a content writer. Writing allows Sharon to inform and captivate readers. Additionally, Sharon pursues music as a hobby, which allows her to showcase her artistic abilities in another creative area.