If you are unsure what steps to take to repair an asphalt driveway then look no further! The process is not only a lot easier than you might think but a lot faster as well. Because of this, once you find the time, you should be able to knock the project out of the park relatively quickly by just adhering to a few simple steps. So without further ado, here is how you can repair an asphalt driveway.
How to Fix a Crumbling Asphalt Driveway
There are many ways to fix a crumbling asphalt driveway. Here are some of the more common methods you can use.
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Preparing the Asphalt for Maintenance
Before you can fill any crack or potholes in, you must first make sure that the driveway is clear of any debris. Miscellaneous branches and rocks can fall into the cracks and end up getting in your asphalt mix. You should also spray the cracks with weed killer if any plants have started to grow. Failing to properly take care of these weeds will lead to the same problems appearing after a short period of time.
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Filling in the Cracks
If your asphalt has any deep cracks, then you are going to want to fill them with sand until they are about ¼ inch from the surface. The reason you do this is to prevent any hollow areas from appearing in your driveway. If left unchecked, these areas are prone to fast deterioration.
You will not have to worry about this as much with shallower cracks because the mix should take care of filling it in on its own.
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Applying the Compound
It is now time to apply the patching compound. This generally comes from a bag and requires water to reach the right consistency. Once it reaches the proper texture, you will want to pour the asphalt into the cracks making sure to compact it in there. Next, you will need to smooth it down, so it is level with the surface surrounding it. Repeat this process until all the cracks have been filled.
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Letting the Asphalt Cure
Once you have finished applying the compound, all you have to do is wait. Different mixes require different amounts of time to cure, however, it should take no longer than a few days. In-between now and then, make sure that you refrain from walking or driving on it.
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Sealcoating Your Driveway
When all is said and done, the best thing you can do to prevent cracks from appearing in the future is seal coating your driveway. Doing this puts a protective layer between the surface of your pavement and the rest of the world. Sealcoating not only increases the longevity of your driveway but its drive-feel as well.
Can You Put New Asphalt Over Old Asphalt
Depending on the state of your driveway, you may have more to fill in than just a few cracks. If this is the case, then you should consider overlaying it with new asphalt. Doing so will create an all-new layer on the surface of your driveway that can last as long as 15 years.
With that being said, overlaying is a much bigger project than just repairing an asphalt driveway. If you are considering putting new asphalt over old asphalt, then contact a professional so you can go about it in a proper way.
Have More Questions?
You can count on Walt’s Paving to complete your residential or commercial paving project in an efficient and timely manner. We have over 40 years of experience paving asphalt driveways, making asphalt repairs, and seal coating asphalt. We are located in Osceola, IN, and service homeowners and businesses within 50 miles of Elkhart, IN. If you have any further questions regarding our services, do not hesitate to contact us today.
