How to Apply a Sealer to Your Asphalt Driveway
Fall is the perfect season to spread a sealer on your asphalt pavement. Maintaining the entrance to your property is a breeze when you know how to go about it. Sun exposure, gasoline and oil drops, water, snow, and salt are factors an entryway is exposed to year round.
The application of a sealer increases the durability of the asphalt. This maneuver is carried out simply and quickly. You can do it yourself, without asking for professional help, in just one weekend.
The first thing you should do is look for the best driveway sealers to guarantee you quality results. Asphalt is the best material in this case. You should also choose the right sealant for the sealer you will be using.
Types of Sealant
Acrylic-based sealer
is an aesthetic option. It offers a non-slip surface and is sold in different shades. On the other hand, this is not a good product for asphalt because it is not waterproof, does not have good durability, and lacks adhesion. It, therefore, represents a choice to be avoided.
The bitumen-based sealer, on the other hand, is an excellent choice. It protects the asphalt, lets it breathe, makes it more flexible, and offers a black finish as we know it well. Its texture is smooth and uniform. This is an option to consider.
Finally, there is a sealant based on bitumen and polymers. It allows the asphalt to breathe well and is waterproof with regard to both water and hydrocarbons, such as petroleum. It is used for more damaged entrances. This sealant even seals cracks and potholes. This product is the most recommended.
Steps
Before embarking on the application of this type of product, you must have the necessary equipment. Therefore, you will need:
- Rubber gloves
- Sealant
- A broom or sponge broom (commonly known as a “squeegee”)
- A scraper
- Everything you need to repair cracks and potholes.
Now, here is the procedure to apply the sealant to your asphalt driveway:
- It is important to fill all the potholes and make the necessary touch-ups on cracks and holes. The stains must be cleaned well. Then brush, rinse, and let the asphalt dry for 24 hours.
- Carefully read the instructions on the sealant container. Open it and pour it directly on the asphalt (the recommended application temperature is between 8 and 12 o C). Do not add a large amount. The trick is to go there sparingly.
- Brush the product so that it spreads evenly over the pavement.
- Repeat the process until the sealant covers the entire surface of the entrance.
- Ensure that no one is walking or that no vehicle is rolling on the pavement for 24 hours. Rain will not affect the majority of products.
- Instruments used to spread sealant will wash off easily with warm water and soap.
It’s that simple! Try it to keep your driveway in good shape.…
