How To Seal An Asphalt Driveway

paved asphalt driveway

A majority of homes and businesses in the U.S. have asphalt driveways. Maintenance is required to keep asphalt looking good and damage free.
Over time rain, sun and use will crack and fade your driveway. The best way to protect your asphalt is to repair and seal your driveway on a regular basis.
Sealing can be a do-it-yourself weekend project and requires minimal skill to accomplish.

Why It Is So Important To Seal Asphalt Driveways

Asphalt and the petroleum within break down over time from harsh sun and weather. Cracks form and water from rain penetrates the surface making asphalt brittle. Untreated asphalt cracks will enlarge causing more damage and even small cracks will turn into potholes.
Filling the cracks and sealing the asphalt will add years to the life of asphalt driveways.

Types Of Asphalt Sealers

There a 2 kinds of asphalt sealer. The first is Coal tar which is the most durable and rich but is not very eco-friendly. The second is Emulsion sealer which is a greener product and a lot easier to work with especially for a do-it-yourself application. The drawback is this product may require applying more frequently to your driveway. Speak with your local hardware store to determine which sealer is best for the climate you live in.

When Is the Best Time to Seal an Asphalt Driveway?

The best time to seal your driveway is when the weather is warm and no rain is expected. The temperature should be between 60 to 80 degrees and the asphalt should be dry with low humidity. If it is too cold or humid you take the risk that the sealer will not stick to the driveway.
If you have a blower clean the driveway of loose debris and small pebbles by blowing off the asphalt.

Black Jack Asphalt Crack Sealer is used to fill in the cracks after the cracks are swept of loose debris. Follow the instruction on the tube. Allow the black jack sealer to sit in the cracks overnight before sealing the driveway. All oil stains and grease spots need to be cleaned using a degreaser. For extra cleaning you can power wash the asphalt before filling the cracks. The next day you can start sealing including right over the Black Jack Filler.

Tools & Materials Needed

• Asphalt sealer
• Asphalt sealer squeegee
• gloves, eye protection, dust mask
• Rags
• Power washer or hose
• Thermometer to check temperature

How To Apply The Asphalt Sealant

There are 4 ways you can apply asphalt sealant by spraying brushing rolling it on or with the use of an asphalt squeegee. Working in sections is best no matter what method you use.
Apply the sealant in a uniform manner not too thick and not too thin. While taking your time be sure to overlap the coating and not leave any gaps. Leave enough time to cover the entire driveway in one day.

When done allow the coating to cure properly per the instructions that came with the sealer normally 24-48 hours cure time. Regularly inspect the sealant and if needed touch the coating up. Watch for signs of re-cracking and do not park any cars on the driveway or allow any foot traffic until the sealant is completely dry and cured.

Plan to reseal your driveway about every 2-4 years.