Year-Round Asphalt Driveway Maintenance Tips
Asphalt is a durable material that can take years of foot and vehicle traffic without any signs of damage. Eventually, however, all asphalt surfaces need to be repaved. Still, you can help ensure the longevity of your asphalt driveway with proper care and some good maintenance practices all throughout the year.
Here are some solid tips for maintaining your asphalt driveway from the Burnaby and Vancouver driveway paving pros at Curtis Paving:
- Seal Cracks Annually
Perhaps the most important driveway maintenance tip that homeowners should follow religiously is to have their asphalt driveway crack sealed on a yearly basis. If left unchecked, and especially in the presence of moisture (which the Vancouver area receives plenty of), cracks can grow and become large holes. The best time to seal cracks is during the dryer months of July and August, before the rainy season between October and March sets in.
- Add Driveway Edge Trimming to Your Outdoor Chores List
As strong as asphalt is, grass and weeds, if given enough time, can wreak havoc on asphalt surfaces. Don't allow any plants to take hold in the first place by trimming the edges of your driveway on a regular basis. Edge trimming makes your lawn look cleaner and protects your driveway from deterioration. You can also consider edging your driveway with a brick or stone boarder that is both functional and decorative.
- Clean Up Oil and Fuel Spots
Oil spills can cause your driveway to become gummy and sticky, while fuel spills can cause damage if left to sit for too long. While you should clean oil and fuel spots as soon as you can, neither pose an immediate problem and can be taken care of when you have time. Diesel spills, on the other hand, demand instant attention. Diesel can dissolve asphalt in mere minutes, so be careful not to spill any and clean it up right away if you do.
- Sealcoat the Driveway Every 3 Years or When Needed
The usable life of any asphalt surface can be greatly extended with a regular application of asphalt sealcoating. Asphalt sealer is the best way to prevent oxidation, which dissolves asphalt binders and causes it to deteriorate. Asphalt does not need to be sealed every year. Getting it sealed every 3 years is often enough, or when you notice that the old coat is beginning to wear away.
- Know When to Call in a Driveway Paving Professional
Some driveway maintenance tasks, like edge trimming and cleaning, are simple enough to carry out yourself. Others, however, should be left up to Curtis Paving's Vancouver and Burnaby driveway paving repair and installation experts.
Crack sealing and seal coating are most effective when carried out by professionals. Furthermore, when restoration is no longer an option for an aging driveway, we can also help you with asphalt removal and new asphalt driveway installation.
Whether you need driveway maintenance or the installation of a brand new driveway, you can contact Curtis Paving to request an estimate today.