Just Had An Asphalt Driveway Installed? 2 Tips To Keep It Maintained

If you just had an asphalt driveway installed, you want it to last a long time for you. One way you can do this is to keep it maintained. To help you, below are two asphalt maintenance tips.

Keep it Clean

One important thing is to keep your asphalt driveway clean. This will remove debris that could damage the surface and allow you to see much better if there is damage you need to take care of it before it becomes worse. Cleaning the driveway also keeps it looking nice.

To clean your driveway wet it down first with a garden hose. If you have stains, such as oil spots, use a pre-treat cleaner made for asphalt on these areas. Once this is done purchase an asphalt cleaner to clean the driveway. Put the cleaner on the driveway starting at the top and work your way down. You can use a deck brush or a driveway broom to work the cleaner into the driveway. Scrub well as you clean so stuck on dirt and debris comes off the driveway. When you are finished, use the garden hose again to spray the driveway to remove all cleaner. 

Seal your Driveway

Sealing your driveway every two to three years will keep it in great condition. A sealant protects the driveway from stains, scratches, and more. Before you start, clean your driveway if you have not done this already ensuring all dirt and debris are removed. Once it is clean and dry, sweep over the driveway with a broom as there may be dust and dirt still on it. 

Measure your driveway width and length so you know how much sealer to purchase. You do not want to be halfway done and run out. Pour the sealer onto the driveway starting at the top. Use a squeegee broom with a long handle to spread the sealer so the entire driveway is covered. Use a hand brush to spread the sealer along the edges of the driveway. If your driveway is connected to a garage, protect the garage door as the sealant can splash on it. Let the first sealant dry for a couple of days and then apply a second coat for complete protection. Once you are finished, let the sealant completely dry before you use your driveway. This generally takes about a day or two. 

You can hire an asphalt maintenance company to clean and seal your driveway for you if you do not want to do this yourself.