Is your asphalt driveway or parking lot looking old, cracked, and worn out? Well, don’t worry! You won’t have to hire expensive professionals or be overwhelmed by the process.
Using some basic tools, a little effort, and following this guide, you will be able to perform asphalt maintenance like a pro! Be it filling of cracks, sealing of the surface, or repainting of faded lines, we have your back.
This guide will help you renew your asphalt to look fresh and smooth again—to save money and take pride in a job well done. So, let’s get right to making your asphalt look great!
The Importance of Pro-Quality DIY Asphalt Maintenance
Let’s be real. Maintaining your asphalt is decidedly unglamorous. Whether it’s a driveway, a parking lot, or a small road, keeping them in decent shape makes quite some difference. After all, who doesn’t love smooth and crack-free asphalt?
Not only is it nice to look at, but it also prevents accidents, keeps costs low, and increases the selling price of your property. That said, let’s take a closer look at why professional-quality DIY asphalt maintenance means the world to any owner of a piece of asphalt.
- You can save money in the long run.
- Give longer life to your Asphalt
- Add safety to everyone around
- Increase the curb appeal of your property
- Take pride in what you do
- Protect against weather damage
- Quick and easy maintenance saves time
The Steps for DIY Asphalt Maintenance
1. Clean the Surface Properly:
Think of your asphalt like your living room floor—you wouldn’t start a makeover without cleaning up first, would you? Start by getting rid of accumulated dirt, leaves, and debris. Use a broom, a blower, or even a power washer to get rid of the grime.
For the most stubborn oil stains, scrub the floor with a degreaser or dish soap. The cleaner the surface, the better the adhesion for repairs, and proper bonding of the sealant.
A clean surface is the most important first step in making that asphalt look like new again. Also, it’s somehow kind of satisfying to see that clean surface, prepared to go to the next steps.
2. Fill Cracks and Potholes:
Cracks and potholes are like cuts on your skin. Water comes in and starts to make them much worse with time. Sealing them early can prevent a headache later.
Apply a crack filler for small cracks by merely squeezing it into the area, smoothening it with a trowel, and letting it dry. Use an asphalt patch for potholes by filling the hole, compacting it with a tamper or heavy tool, and leveling it out.
This step prevents water from getting underneath your asphalt and will keep your asphalt solid and safe. Nobody likes to drive over bumps, and this step will give your surface that smooth, safe finish.
3. Sealcoat the Surface:
Sealcoating is putting a protective shield on your asphalt. It prevents water, UV rays, and oil stains from embedding into the asphalt, significantly increasing its lifespan. That should be followed by an application of a seal coat on your newly-dried crack repairs.
Spread it evenly with a squeegee or roller. Not only does it make your asphalt look all shiny and new, but a fresh coat adds protection against future damage. Do this when the weather is warm and dry for the best results; this is the way to keep your hard work looking great for years.
4. Repaint Your Lines and Markings:
Whether your asphalt has parking lines, speed bumps, or directional arrows, all it needs is a fresh coat of paint. Restoring such markings creates an appearance of tidiness in your space. You will find that it also improves safety and organization.
You can also use line striping kits or stencils for recovering faded lines. This can serve as a simple way of adding a professional touch to your do-it-yourself task. All these make everything look crisp and clear once more.
5. Check the Weather Before You Start:
Weather is another factor that comes significantly into play in taking care of asphalt. Rain, snow, or extreme cold may ruin your hard work. Always check the forecast before you start.
For the best results, aim for dry, nice, warm days with no precipitation in the forecast for a minimum of 24 hours. The correct weather makes it possible for your repairs and seal coating to set in nicely for the best results.
6. Periodic Inspection and Maintenance:
Your asphalt is much the same; it requires check-ups. Spur a few minutes every couple of months for a speedy inspection of your driveway or parking lot. Look for new cracks, faded spots, or other wear-and-tear areas.
Address small problems that you notice quickly to save you money and headaches down the line. A little now prevents big, costly repairs later. And, your asphalt will always look its best!
7. Remove Oil Stains Immediately:
Oil stains are little troublemakers on your asphalt because they weaken the surface and make it look messy. Be quick to act if you happen to come across an oil stain; use one of many different types of oil stain removers, degreasers, or even basic dish soap.
Scrub the area with a stiff brush and then water it down. The sooner you deal with stains, the less time they impregnate the asphalt and cause damage. This is for the sake of view and integrity, as cleaning the surface will not only make it look better but also retain its integrity.
8. Edge Your Asphalt Regularly:
Over time, grass, weeds, and dirt can creep onto your asphalt edges and make it look unkempt. The damage also occurs gradually when these elements start to take over.
Trimming and edging around your asphalt keeps it neat-looking and prevents roots from popping up through the surface. A clean edge helps in adding curb appeal while protecting your investment.
9. Watch Out for Standing Water:
Water is the number one enemy when it comes to asphalt. Puddles and standing water seep into the cracks, weakening the surface, and forming potholes. Your asphalt surface needs to be adequately drained to avoid the pooling of water.
If you notice the retaining of water in some areas, regrade those spots or address the drainage concerns. Keeping the water at bay will be your best defense against keeping asphalt strong and durable.
How Viking Materials Can Help
At Viking Materials, we’re your go-to source for all the tools and products needed for top-notch DIY asphalt maintenance. From crack fillers and seal coats to line striping tools and patching materials, we have it all in-store. Not sure what you need?
Our team is always there to help you choose the right products to make asphalt maintenance so easy. Don’t leave your asphalt to chance; let Viking Materials be your trusted partner every step of the way. You could even visit the website to explore our range of high-quality asphalt maintenance products. Contact Viking Materials for any further tips or additional products you may require. It is to make your next asphalt maintenance project easy!
Read More: Benefits of Using Asphalt Crack-Fillers
Conclusion
There’s no need for challenging or expensive maintenance of asphalt. With the proper approach and just a bit of effort, utilize the right tools. Anyone can make their driveway or parking lot look wonderful without the help of professionals. Follow these easy steps, perform regular maintenance, and be proud of how good your asphalt would look.
Ready to start your project? Here at Viking Materials, we have all the best tools and products that can maintain your asphalt in the best possible way. Let’s make your asphalt the envy of the neighborhood!
FAQ's
It is better to wait at least 24-48 hours (about 2 days) before driving on freshly seal-coated asphalt. This will allow the sealcoat time to dry and cure, so a quality finish will endure.
Proper ways to prevent the development of cracks in asphalt include periodic maintenance. It will be like re-sealcoating every 2-3 years. Then you need to immediately clean any spots that develop from oil spills. Another preventive measure involves proper drainage to divert water and prevent surface weakening.
Yes, you can use a regular broom to sweep away debris. But for better results, with dirt and grime, it is always best to use a power washer or stiff-bristled broom for a clean surface before repairs.
