Your asphalt driveway works hard every day, and if you want it to last, you’ve got to give it a little love. The good news is that you don’t need a contractor’s license or a truckload of equipment to keep it in shape. With the right tools and a few simple steps, you can protect your investment and keep your driveway looking sharp year-round.
Clean Like You Mean It
Before you can seal or repair anything, your driveway needs to be spotless. Dirt, leaves, and grime collect quickly and can break down the asphalt over time. That’s why a heavy-duty push broom is your first essential tool. Look for one with stiff bristles that can dig in and lift away debris with every pass. It doesn’t just make the driveway look better—it lays the foundation for everything else you’re going to do.
Next up is a way to blast away the deep-set gunk. A high-pressure garden hose will do the trick for light jobs, but if you’re serious about getting that asphalt squeaky clean, a power washer is worth every penny. It knocks out stains, oil spots, and mildew, prepping the surface so that sealants and repairs actually stick. Don’t skip this step—it makes all the difference.
Fix Cracks Before They Spread
Even the best driveways develop cracks over time. If left alone, they invite water to seep in, freeze, and expand, turning minor flaws into major headaches. That’s where crack filler and a caulking gun come into play. Clean out the crack, squeeze in the filler, and let it set. It’s simple, fast, and highly effective. The key is to catch cracks early and fill them tight so they don’t get the upper hand.
Patch the Bigger Problems
If you’ve got something bigger than a crack—maybe a small hole or some crumbling spots—then you’ll need an asphalt patch. It’s easy to work with and designed for these types of fixes. Spread it out with a flat shovel, tamp it down with a hand compactor or a tamper, and you’re good to go. The result? A sturdy, even surface that’s ready for anything.
At Walt’s Paving, we know that smart maintenance goes a long way. We’ve seen firsthand how homeowners who stay ahead of the game avoid costly repairs and extend the life of their pavement. Whether you’re sealing for the first time or patching up after a rough winter, having the right tools makes it all smoother.
Seal It and Forget It
Once your driveway is clean and repaired, it’s time for the final step—sealcoating. This is what gives your driveway that rich, black finish and shields it from UV rays, water, and chemicals. A sealer application tool, like a squeegee or brush, helps you spread the product evenly across the surface. Choose a day with mild temperatures, follow the drying instructions, and your driveway will be ready to impress.
Taking care of your asphalt driveway isn’t complicated—it just takes consistency, a little elbow grease, and the right gear. And when you need a helping hand or want it done by experts who know exactly what your surface needs, you can always count on Walt’s Paving to deliver dependable results.
How can Walt’s Paving help?
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 sealcoating asphalt. We are located in Osceola, IN, and service homeowners and businesses within 50 miles of Elkhart, IN. Call us today.
