Simple Ways to Maintain Your Asphalt Driveway

Your driveway is more than just a place to park your car. It’s the first thing people see when they come to your home. A well-kept driveway makes your whole house look better. But driveways can get old and damaged over time. The good news is that with some simple maintenance, you can keep your asphalt driveway looking great. You don’t need to be an expert or spend a lot of money. With a little effort, you can make your driveway last longer and look nicer. By following these tips, you’ll save money and keep your driveway in top shape for years to come.

Keep It Clean

Regular Sweeping

Sweep your driveway often. This removes dirt and small rocks. These can damage your driveway over time. Use a stiff broom to get into all the nooks and crannies. Try to sweep at least once a week, or more if you live in a dusty area.

Wash Away Stains

• Oil Spots: Use dish soap and warm water to clean oil stains. Scrub gently with a brush and rinse well. For tough stains, you might need to repeat this process a few times.
• Leaf Stains: Rake leaves often to prevent stains. Wet leaves can leave marks if left too long. If you see leaf stains, try scrubbing with a mixture of water and baking soda.
• Dirt Build-up: Use a pressure washer for stubborn dirt. Start with low pressure and work your way up if needed. Be careful not to damage the asphalt with too much pressure.

Mind the Edges

Clean along the edges of your driveway. Weeds and grass can grow here and cause cracks. Use a weed killer or pull weeds by hand to keep edges clean. Trim grass regularly to prevent it from creeping onto your driveway.

Fill Cracks Quickly

Spot the Cracks

Look for small cracks in your driveway. Even tiny cracks can become big problems if ignored. Walk your driveway slowly, looking closely at the surface. Pay extra attention after rain, as water can make cracks more visible.

Clean Before Filling

• Remove Debris: Clean out any dirt or plants in the crack. Use a screwdriver or similar tool to get deep into the crack. Make sure you remove all loose material.
• Dry the Area: Make sure the crack is dry before filling. You can use a leaf blower or let it air dry on a sunny day. Filling wet cracks won’t work well.
• Use a Wire Brush: Scrub the crack to remove loose material. This helps the filler stick better. Brush in all directions to clean thoroughly.

Apply Filler

Use asphalt crack filler for small cracks. Follow the instructions on the product carefully. Apply the filler slowly, making sure it gets deep into the crack. Smooth it out with a putty knife for a neat finish.

Seal Your Driveway

When to Seal

Seal your driveway every few years. This protects it from water and sun damage. Look for signs that it’s time to seal, like a faded color or small cracks appearing. Sealing is best done in warm, dry weather.

Prepare the Surface

• Clean Thoroughly: Wash the driveway and let it dry completely. Use a degreaser for any oil spots. Make sure the surface is as clean as possible for the best results.
• Repair Cracks: Fill any cracks before sealing. Let the filler dry completely before moving on to sealing. This step is crucial for a smooth, long-lasting seal.
• Remove Oil Stains: Clean oil spots so the sealer sticks better. Use a special oil stain remover if regular cleaning doesn’t work. Oil can prevent the sealer from bonding properly.

Apply the Sealer

Use a squeegee or brush to apply the sealer. Work in small sections for even coverage. Start at the highest point of your driveway and work your way down. This helps prevent pooling and ensures a smooth application.

Protect from Water Damage

Improve Drainage

Make sure water flows away from your driveway. Poor drainage can cause cracks and potholes. Look at how water moves during rain. If it pools on your driveway, you might need to improve drainage around it.

Fix Low Spots

• Identify Puddles: Look for areas where water collects after rain. Mark these spots so you can find them easily when it’s dry. These are the areas you’ll need to fix.
• Level the Surface: Use asphalt patch material to raise low spots. Follow the product instructions carefully. You might need to apply multiple thin layers for the best results.
• Create Slope: Ensure your driveway slopes away from your house. A slight slope helps water run off instead of pooling. Aim for about a quarter-inch drop for every foot of length.

Maintain Gutters

Keep your gutters clean. This prevents water from overflowing onto your driveway. Clean gutters at least twice a year, more if you have lots of trees nearby. Make sure downspouts direct water away from your driveway.

Be Careful with Heavy Loads

Avoid Excessive Weight

Don’t park very heavy vehicles on your driveway. They can cause dents and cracks. This includes large trucks, RVs, and construction equipment. If you must park something heavy, try to do it for only a short time.

Distribute Weight

• Use Plywood: Place plywood under heavy items to spread the weight. This works for things like car jacks or the legs of heavy furniture. The plywood helps distribute the weight over a larger area.
• Move Things Around: Don’t leave heavy objects in one spot for too long. This includes parked cars. Try to park in different spots to avoid creating dents or weak spots.
• Careful with Jacks: Use a piece of wood under car jacks to protect the surface. This is especially important in hot weather when asphalt is softer. Always use jack stands for added safety and protection.

Watch for Sharp Objects

Avoid dragging sharp or heavy objects across your driveway. They can leave marks or gouges. If you need to move something heavy, lift it or use rollers. Be extra careful with metal objects that might scratch the surface.

Protect from Chemical Damage

Be Careful with Chemicals

Some chemicals can damage asphalt. Be careful what you use on or near your driveway. Avoid harsh chemicals like solvents or strong acids. If you spill something, clean it up right away with water and mild soap.

Safe Snow Removal

• Use Plastic Shovels: Metal shovels can scratch the surface. Plastic shovels are gentler on your driveway. They’re also lighter, making snow removal easier on your back.
• Avoid Salt: Use sand or kitty litter for traction instead of salt. Salt can damage asphalt and cause it to crumble over time. If you must use salt, choose one that’s safe for asphalt.
• Remove Snow Often: Don’t let snow build up and become heavy ice. Shovel frequently during snowfall. This makes the job easier and prevents ice from forming and damaging your driveway.

Clean Spills Quickly

Wipe up any spills as soon as they happen. This includes gas, oil, and antifreeze. Use absorbent materials like kitty litter to soak up liquids. Then clean the area thoroughly with soap and water.

Mind the Edges

Protect the Borders

The edges of your driveway are the weakest part. They need extra care to prevent damage. Be especially careful when mowing or using a weed eater near the edges. Avoid hitting the edges with lawn equipment.

Support the Sides

• Add Gravel: Put gravel along the edges to support the asphalt. This helps prevent the edges from crumbling. It also looks nice and can improve drainage.
• Avoid Driving on Edges: Try not to drive or park too close to the edges. The edges can’t support as much weight as the center of the driveway. Leave a little space when parking near the sides.
• Trim Plants: Keep plants and grass from growing over the edges. Roots can cause damage over time. Use edging tools to create a clear border between your lawn and driveway.

Repair Edge Damage

Fix any cracks or breaks along the edges quickly. This stops the damage from spreading. You might need to use a special edge repair product. These are designed to bond well with existing asphalt and provide strong support.

Deal with Tree Roots

Watch for Lifting

Tree roots can push up your driveway. Look for areas that are lifting or cracking. This often happens slowly, so check regularly. You might see a wavy or bumpy surface where roots are growing underneath.

Trim Roots Carefully

• Consult an Expert: Get advice before cutting tree roots. Cutting roots can harm the tree and might not solve the problem. An arborist can help you decide the best course of action.
• Create Barriers: Use root barriers to redirect tree root growth. These can be installed along the edge of your driveway. They guide roots to grow down instead of towards your driveway.
• Consider Removal: Sometimes, problem trees may need to be removed. This is a last resort but might be necessary for severely damaging trees. Always consult a professional before removing large trees.

Choose Tree Locations Wisely

When planting new trees, place them far from your driveway to avoid future problems. Consider the full-grown size of the tree, including its root system. A good rule is to plant trees at least 20 feet away from paved areas.

Regular Inspections

Schedule Check-ups

Look over your driveway regularly. This helps you catch problems early. Set a reminder to inspect your driveway every few months. Spring and fall are good times for thorough checks.

What to Look For

• Cracks: Even small cracks should be noted and filled. Look for both straight and spiderweb-like cracks. Pay special attention to areas where water tends to pool.
• Fading: Faded color might mean it’s time to reseal. Compare the color to areas that get less sun or traffic. If there’s a big difference, it might be time for a new seal coat.
• Soft Spots: Press on the surface to check for unusually soft areas. These could indicate problems under the surface. Soft spots might feel spongy or give way under pressure.

Keep a Record

Write down what you find each time you inspect. This helps you track changes over time. Take photos to compare year to year. This visual record can help you spot gradual changes you might otherwise miss.

Taking care of your asphalt driveway doesn’t have to be hard with regular maintenance. With these simple steps, you can keep it looking great for a long time. A well-maintained driveway not only looks nice but also saves you money in the long run. So, start taking care of your driveway today, and enjoy the benefits of a smooth, attractive entrance to your home for years to come.