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#How to Prepare Your Asphalt Driveway for Sealcoating
Preparing your **asphalt driveway** before applying a new coat of sealcoat is one of the most important steps to ensure the sealcoat adheres properly and provides maximum protection. Proper preparation removes dirt, oil and other contaminants from the surface and allows the sealcoat to fully penetrate the pores of the asphalt.
Follow these steps to make sure your asphalt driveway is fully prepped and ready for a fresh layer of sealcoating:
##Clean the Surface Thoroughly
The first step is to clean your driveway's surface using a stiff broom to remove any loose dirt, leaves, twigs or other debris. Use a garden hose with a high-pressure nozzle to spray away caked-on mud or grime. Pay extra attention to the edges and corners where debris tends to accumulate.
You can use a commercial asphalt cleaner or degreaser to remove oil stains from leaking vehicles. Scrub these areas thoroughly before rinsing. Allow the driveway to completely dry before moving onto the next steps.
##Repair Any Cracks or Holes
Inspect your driveway and use an asphalt crack filler product to repair any cracks wider than 1⁄4 inch. Small cracks and holes can be enlarged to 1⁄4 inch before filling. Remove any loose material and debris before applying the filler using a putty knife.
For larger potholes or deep depressions, use an asphalt patch mix. Carefully clean the area then apply the patch material, tamping it down evenly with a hand tamper. Go over the filled areas with a hand roller once complete.
##Remove Oxidation with Chemical Strippers
If your asphalt surface has areas of oxidation, where the black asphalt has faded to gray, you'll need to apply a chemical degreaser and scrub with a stiff bristle brush. The oxidation occurs when the oils in the asphalt rise to the surface. Removing oxidation will allow for better sealcoat adhesion.
Rinse thoroughly after scrubbing to remove all leftover chemical residue. Test any suspicious areas by sprinkling water over the surface - if the water beads up, there's still residue present that must be rinsed away.
##Perform a Water Test
Once your asphalt is cleaned, do a simple water test by sprinkling water onto various areas of the driveway. If the water is quickly absorbed within 30-60 seconds, the pores in your asphalt are open and ready for sealing.
If the water beads and sits on the surface for longer than 1 minute, there are likely oils, residues or other materials blocking the pavement's pores. Continue cleaning those areas until the water can absorb rapidly.
##Make Necessary Repairs
If your asphalt has extensive cracking, large holes and raveling or other major damage, you may need repairs beyond just crack filling and patching. Severely damaged sections may need removal and replacement.
It's also a good time to consider driveway enhancements like expansion joints and proper slope grading to improve drainage. Planning these repairs ahead of time ensures your asphalt is in the best shape possible before applying fresh sealcoating.
##Apply Patching Compound if Necessary
For potholes and cracked or crumbling areas larger than a few inches, use an asphalt patching compound designed for large repairs. Make sure to thoroughly clean and dry the area first. Mix and apply the compound per the product instructions, using a trowel, putty knife or other tools to smooth it flush with the surrounding areas.
Let the compound cure fully, which may take up to 24 hours before applying the sealcoat. Scrape off any excess height to make sure the repaired section is even.
##Check Weather Conditions
Once prep work is complete, check the forecast to ensure weather conditions will be dry before applying sealcoating. Cooler temperatures below 85°F are ideal. Avoid windy conditions that can blow debris onto the freshly sealed surface.
Planning your asphalt sealcoating for dry, calm weather will help ensure you achieve the optimal sealed surface. Be ready to alter your plans if the forecast changes.
##Allow Proper Curing Time
If you've made repairs, allow fresh asphalt patches, crack filler and driveway repairs ample time to fully cure before sealcoating. Asphalt patching compounds take at least 24 hours to cure while crack fillers may take 1-2 hours. Proper curing ensures a smooth, even surface.
Inspect repaired areas after the recommended curing times. Scrape down any uneven spots with a putty knife or trowel so the new sealcoat will adhere evenly.
##Hire a Professional for Best Results
For driveway owners lacking the necessary equipment and materials or the time for prep work, the best option is hiring a professional paving contractor. Experienced pavers have the skills and tools to efficiently clean, repair cracks, remove oxidation and prepare your asphalt for a fresh sealcoating.
Professional installation also ensures a uniform application for long-lasting protection. DIY kits provide the sealcoat but proper prep work is still essential. Consider pros and cons of DIY vs hiring out.
##Get Your Asphalt Driveway Ready for Its Best Sealcoating
Following these key steps for cleaning, repairing cracks and holes, removing oxidation, testing absorption and checking weather allows for proper preparation before applying the protective sealcoating layer. Taking time to correctly prep your asphalt driveway makes a lasting difference in the appearance and longevity of your new sealcoating.
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