Annual Asphalt Maintenance | What You Need To Do This Fall
Posted on: 28 September 2022
As the leaves begin to fall and the temperatures start to drop, now is the time to start thinking about annual asphalt maintenance. By taking care of your asphalt driveway this fall, you can prevent minor problems from turning into costly repairs down the road. Here's what you need to do.
Inspect Your Asphalt Driveway for Damage
The first step in fall asphalt maintenance is to inspect your driveway or parking lot for any damage that may have occurred over the summer. Look for cracks, potholes, or other signs of wear and tear. If you notice any damage, it's important to have it repaired as soon as possible to prevent further deterioration.
You can repair damage to your asphalt driveway by patching or filling the affected area. For small cracks, you can use a crack sealer. For larger cracks or potholes, you'll need to fill the area with asphalt patching material. Once you've repaired the damage, it's important to seal the area to protect it from further weathering.
Clean Your Asphalt Driveway
Fall is a good time to give your asphalt driveway a thorough cleaning. Remove any debris, such as leaves or sticks that may have accumulated over the summer. Organic debris can cause asphalt to deteriorate, so it is important to remove it and prevent it from sitting on the surface for extended periods. You can also sweep your driveway to remove any built-up dirt or grime.
For a deeper clean, pressure wash your asphalt driveway. Just be sure to use a mild detergent and avoid using a high-pressure setting, as this can damage the asphalt.
Sealcoat Your Asphalt
Sealcoating is one of the most important aspects of fall asphalt maintenance. After you've cleaned and inspected your driveway for damage, you'll want to seal coat the asphalt to protect it from the winter weather. Sealcoating will fill in any cracks or damage that you may have missed and will give your asphalt an extra layer of protection against the elements. It's important to have asphalt seal coating applied by a professional who knows how to prepare the surface and properly apply the sealant to ensure a good bond. Depending on the product used, it could take up to 48 hours to properly cure before you can use your driveway.
By following these simple tips for asphalt maintenance, you can maintain your driveway through the fall season and prevent small problems from turning into bigger (and more expensive) ones down the road.
For more information, contact a local company like W.N. Yoss Construction Inc.
Share