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A new asphalt driveway provides years of curb appeal and a smooth driving surface. Many homeowners also enjoy the dark, black color of freshly poured asphalt. However, asphalt fades over time—and it’s also susceptible to damage from heat, water, and heavy equipment. Proper maintenance goes a long way in preserving asphalt driveways for years to come.
How to Make an Old Asphalt Driveway Look Good
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Making an asphalt driveway look good can be as simple as cleaning up the clutter around the area, or as complex as having the entire driveway repaired. In some cases, the driveway may be so damaged that it is unrepairable and must be redone professionally. However, spot repairs can be done to improve the look, such as filling cracks or holes, but in all cases, any driveway repair must be done when the weather is above 60 degrees and rain is not expected in the forecast for the next several days.
Clearing Weeds
Pull or use weed killer on sprouting weeds and invasive grass to remove them from the edges or inside of cracks. Weed, grass, or other plant removal makes the asphalt look tidy and groomed. Sharp edges accent the driveway to give it a manicured and professional look.
Fill in Cracks
Cracks form in the asphalt from settling or from hot and cold expansion. Press or caulk asphalt crack filler into cracks to seal them. Remove all plant life from the crack, clean it with a stiff-bristled brush and fill the crack. This will turn a tattered-looking asphalt face into a smooth-looking asphalt surface.
Fill in Holes and Chips
Holes and chips are filled much the same way as cracks. The foliage growing in the hole is removed first, the hole is cleaned, and an asphalt patching compound is inserted into the hole. Press the compound down using a tamper or by placing a board over the hole and parking the wheel of a car on top of it. This will firmly press the filler into place.
Seal the Driveway
After the cracks and holes are filled, seal the driveway with an asphalt sealant. This is brushed on with a shop broom and allowed to soak into the asphalt and dry. Other surface preparation must be done beforehand, like sweeping the driveway surface and washing off any residual dirt and debris. Once the asphalt surface is prepared, the sealer is applied. Always allow the sealer to dry for a few days before use.
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