asphalt driveways will eventually crack and be unstable.If the damage is limited to a few locations, there is no need to call a contractor.You can bolster your driveway with a new layer of patching material.
Step 1: Take a look at your driveway.
Every problem can be solved with blacktop patching material.You can repair depressions, thin cracks, and alligator cracks yourself if you take a look at the damaged areas.If the damage covers large areas of the driveway, the only permanent solution is to hire a contractor to remove and replace it.Consider this for any asphalt driveway that is 20 years old.It is not recommended for a driveway with large areas of alligator cracks or drainage problems to have a contractor add more blacktop.
Step 2: Dirt and debris can be removed from the driveway.
Use a leaf blower, compressed air blower with nozzle wand, or broom to clear away dirt, dust, and loose stones.
Step 3: Grass and weeds can be seen from the edges of the driveway.
If there is heavy weed growth, you may want to spray the vegetation with a long- lasting herbicide at least two weeks prior to starting the project.The plants will not grow back.If grass or weeds are growing in cracks in the driveway, it's a good idea to sweep the cracks with a whisk broom.
Step 4: Grease spots should be scrubbed away.
Use a wire-bristled brush to scrub after applying a heavy degreasing detergent.Do not use solvent-based cleaners.It will have an adverse effect on the blacktop's adhesion if they leave unseen residue behind.
Step 5: It's a good idea to fill in the ground for deep holes.
If an area of the driveway has broken off, fill the hole with dirt, gravel, or sand until it is level.
Step 6: Wear protective clothing.
Before handling the blacktop, put on gloves, protective eyewear, and long sleeves and trousers.There are safety instructions on the product label.
Step 7: There is a cold pour patching material.
There are a couple different types of blacktop repair products.For depressions deeper than 2 inches (5 cm) and for missing chunks of asphalt, the asphalt patching material is the best choice.Since hot pour products require specialized machines, you'll want a cold pour product for home repairs.
Step 8: Straight edges can be formed by cutting the hole.
The patching material will create a stronger bond in a hole with vertical edges if you skip this step.You can break the edges of the hole with a hammer and chisel instead of using an asphalt saw.Dust and broken asphalt can be cleaned away.
Step 9: There is a layer of patching material.
You can pour it directly from the bag if you want.Spread the material around with a rake or shovel.If the material spills onto the surface, it's not a problem.
Step 10: Take it down.
Push the patching material down with a heavy object.You can place an oiled piece of plywood over the patch to prevent it from sticking.To compact the material, drive over the plywood.
Step 11: Continue until the hole is filled
Continue patching until the hole is level with the driveway.Air spaces can form and weaken the repair if layers are thicker than one inch.
Step 12: When conditions allow, seal the area.
The repair will be more durable if an asphalt seal is applied.Wait at least 4 hours for the patch to cure, or as directed on the label instructions, if you want to apply the sealer in certain conditions.Wait until the weather is at least 60oF (16oC), the driveway is dry, and you don't expect rain.Some patching material may be washed away if the sealer gets wet.
Step 13: Follow instructions.
Before you start, make sure to check all product labels for safety instructions.Gloves, work clothing, and protective eyewear are all recommended.
Step 14: Small cracks can be filled with asphalt crack filler.
If you have single cracks less than 6mm wide, use asphalt crack filler.Shake the bottle to mix the product evenly.The opening should be narrower than the crack if the top of the nozzle is removed.Load the product into an asphalt caulk gun if there is no nozzle.The crack needs to be squeezed directly into it to make it flush with the driveway.Allow it to dry for 24 hours.If the driveway is below the surface level, apply an additional coat.Walk or drive over the repair if you wait at least 24 hours after the final coat.
Step 15: You can buy alligator asphalt patch for more serious cracks.
The material is intended for "spiderweb" crack patterns, single cracks wider than 14" (6mm), and small depressions less than 2 cm.Chunks of the asphalt may be separated from the driveway if the alligator cracks are severe.If you remove these completely, then refill the hole using the pothole method, you can achieve a stronger repair.
Step 16: The alligator patching material can be spread with an asphalt squeegee.
The material should be put on the center of the damage.If you want to cover the damage with material, spread it out with an asphalt squeegee.The label instructions should be checked first.Some products need to be mixed in a bucket.
Step 17: Continue until you reach the next level.
Spread more alligator patching material until the depression is level with its surroundings.For a more even transition, squeegee out a thin layer one or two feet in each direction.
Step 18: Let it dry.
Depending on the climate and depth of the repair, the material will hardened over the course of a few hours.
Step 19: If needed, repeat.
Repairs may crack over the course of a few days.If this happens, apply an additional coat.
Step 20: Before parking or walking on the driveway, allow 24 hours for the blacktop to dry and cure.