A well-maintained driveway can significantly enhance the curb appeal of your home and prolong the life of your investment. Maintaining your asphalt driveway doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By following these expert tips and regularly investing in professional maintenance, you can ensure your driveway remains in top condition, enhancing the beauty and value of your property.
Clean Your Driveway Regularly
One of the simplest yet most effective maintenance tasks is regular cleaning. Dirt, leaves, and debris can accumulate on your driveway, leading to stains and surface deterioration. Regularly sweeping or using a leaf blower can prevent these issues. For a deeper clean, consider lightly pressure washing your driveway to remove stubborn dirt and moss that has built up on your driveway.
Protect Your Driveway From Spills
Preventing spills and leaks on your asphalt driveway is crucial for maintaining its durability and appearance. Substances like gasoline, oil, transmission and power steering fluids from vehicles can damage the asphalt surface. If a spill does happen, quick action is key. It’s best to contain the spill, then soak up the spill with an absorbent such as cat litter. This helps in minimizing the amount of liquid that can penetrate into the asphalt. After absorbing the spill, clean the affected area thoroughly using a mild dish soap and soft bristle brush. Then rinse the area clean. Be sure to use a standard water hose and not a pressure washer. Too much pressure in the water stream could loosen rocks on the asphalt surface. By taking these steps promptly, you can help protect your asphalt driveway from long-term damage and maintain its integrity over time.
Sealcoat Your Driveway
Sealcoating is a protective layer applied to the surface of your asphalt driveway. It’s recommended to sealcoat your driveway every two to three years to extend the life of the driveway. This process not only enhances the appearance of your driveway by giving it a fresh, black finish but also is the best preventative maintenance against cracking.
Address Cracks
Cracks in your driveway are inevitable over time, especially in areas with harsh weather conditions causing the asphalt to expand and contract. Crack filler may need to be applied regularly to help. Keep in mind crack filler can settle and cracks will reopen with time. Regular maintenance is important to help protect your driveway.
Avoid Heavy Loads
Asphalt driveways are durable, but they can still be damaged by excessively heavy loads. It’s best to keep heavy vehicles such as roofing trucks and concrete trucks off a newly paved driveway. Avoid parking heavy trucks or equipment on your driveway for extended periods. If you need to accommodate heavy vehicles regularly, consider reinforcing your driveway with additional layers of asphalt for added strength.
Seasonal Maintenance
Different seasons bring different challenges for driveway maintenance. In the winter, clear snow and ice using a plastic shovel to avoid damaging the surface. In the summer, high temperatures can cause asphalt to soften. Be mindful of any sharp objects, such as bicycle and motorcycle kickstands or high heels, which can leave indentations in the hot asphalt. Also, remember to keep your vehicle in motion when turning your wheel to help prevent tire marks during the hot summer months. This is especially important for homes with side load garages and tight turning areas. Marks or scuffs can be caused by turning too sharply when the car is standing still. In most cases, these marks will wear and weather away with time.
Hire A Professional For Your Driveway Maintenance Needs
While DIY maintenance can handle minor issues, hiring a professional driveway paving company like H&H Paving ensures comprehensive care and long-lasting results. Professional paving companies have the expertise, equipment, and materials to address all your driveway maintenance needs efficiently.
As driveway paving experts, H&H Paving understands the importance of regular maintenance for asphalt driveways. With over 30 years of experience, H&H Paving is committed to providing high-quality asphalt paving and maintenance services for the driveways they have installed. Our team of experts use state-of-the-art equipment and premium materials to ensure your driveway will last for years to come. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help keep your driveway looking its best.