Asphalt Driveway Sealing:

Extend your asphalt’s life span and bring it back to its visually appealing jet-black appearance. Sealing and repairing the surface is like giving your driveway sunblock to prevent surface oxidation, and prolongs the lifespan of the Bitumen in the asphalt that binds the aggregate, gravel and sand together. Sealing can also prevent water from seeping into cracks and eroding the base, or break apart during the winter freeze-thaw cycle. You can’t indefinitely prevent your asphalt from deteriorating over time, but with proper maintenance, you can slow the effects.

Preparation, Planning & Execution

Proper prep-work and planning usually takes the most amount of time in any Asphalt refinishing job because it’s vital to a successfully seal coated driveway.

• Timing is everything – no rain, no cold temperatures, no falling leaves and no birthday parties.
  • Depending on the products used, temperatures should be above 55 degrees during application, and above 40 degrees for at least 48 hours afterwards. If it’s shaded, allow more time. Leaves and feet cannot be on a newly sealed driveway for about 2 hours after being sealed.

• Assess age, cracks & potholes to determine the best solution.
  
  • Older or more wear generally requires more product, more time and a second coat (with 6 hours between coats).Manufacturer warranties range from 1-10 years. With harsh Minnesota weather, I personally recommend 8-10 year products (warranties are handled by the manufacturer and I adhere to all manufacturer guidelines to ensure your warranty is valid).

• Remove grass, dirt and debris from cracks and edges.
  
  • Asphalt doesn’t stick to a dirty surface. All vegetation should be removed, and the driveway should have nice clean edges. In some cases where a weed-whip, leaf blower and broom won’t work, I’ll need to chop away weeds and pressure wash to get to a clean surface.

• Enjoy your beautifully refinished driveway.