If you’ve lived in Murfreesboro for any amount of time, you already know that asphalt paving is the preferred method of laying parking lots and driveways. But, did you know there are a few ways that you can fix this versatile and long-lasting material yourself if you notice problems?
Most people don’t, and it’s always in your best interest to call a professional asphalt paving professional for major issues. However, if you don’t mind getting dirty, you can DIY small cracks, depressions, and faded sealer.
Diy Sealcoating
Sealcoating is perhaps the easiest way to maintain your driveway, and adding a layer of sealant can even make a faded surface look new once again. Start by repairing any cracks – we’ll get to that later – and then spend a good few hours removing dirt, oil, and debris from the driveway. A broom and a leaf blower will go a long way here. Next, grab the pressure washer and a detergent-based cleaner, and scrub any areas with caked on grime.
Make sure that your sealant is thoroughly mixed, and then use a roller brush to apply an even coating. To protect your asphalt paving and sealing endeavors, allow the sealant to cure for about 24 hours, and don’t let anyone walk or drive on the surface until it’s dry.
Crack Repair
Grab a wire brush and asphalt patching material along with a broom and a garden hose. To repair small cracks, take your brush to remove loose debris from each. You’ll then want to use a small hand sweeper or broom to brush away smaller pieces of dirt and gravel. Clean around the crack so that there are no loose pieces that might make your patch job uneven. If necessary, use the garden hose to get rid of dust, scrub oil and grease with a detergent-based cleaning agent, and rinse. Read the package directions, but call a professional asphalt paving crew – Hargrove Sealcoating services the Murfreesboro area – if you’re not comfortable with the results.
Depressions
Depressions can happen when vehicles are parked for a long time in the same spot, especially during the summer when asphalt tends to get warm and a bit more pliable. During the winter season, water can get stuck in these dips and divots and that can cause major issues over time.
To fill in these depressions, look for an asphalt patching material, and then clean the area similar to how you would for a crack. Importantly, make sure it’s completely dry, as patching material will not properly adhere to a wet or damp surface.
Regardless of the types of repairs you’re doing, call an asphalt paving professional if you don’t feel comfortable working with this material or if you don’t get the expected results. However, if you don’t mind getting your hands (and shoes and clothes) dirty, many simple repairs can be handled with an asphalt patching or sealing mixture found at your local hardware store.
If you are looking for asphalt paving for your Murfreesboro home or business, contact Hargrove Sealcoating today online at HargroveSealcoating.com.