How to Apply Asphalt Driveway Sealers

A well-laid asphalt driveway can last as long as thirty years but in time they do need sealing and maintaining. What's more, the driveway has no chance of lasting as long as it should if it isn't properly looked after and this may mean applying asphalt driveway sealers from time to time. 

Knowing how to apply asphalt driveway sealers is a real skill to have, ensuring you can always fix any errors when they occur, rather than waiting and needing a whole driveway replacement or relaying. Below are the steps to follow when applying asphalt driveway sealers:

#1 - Buy the Right Materials

Before you can look at how to apply asphalt driveway sealers, you need to buy asphalt sealer and related equipment. There are different grades of sealer and price ranges available, so you can find the right option for your budget and needs. Sealers may incorporate a range of ingredients including UV stabilizers and elastomeric materials, helping to extend the longevity of the chosen sealant and therefore, the driveway itself.

As well as the sealant you will need driveway cleaner or degrease and also oil spot primer, if you have a driveway which has been dirtied by oil or petrol. It also important you make sure to use the right applicator for your chosen sealer. This could be a brush or a squeegee dependent on the manufacturer.

#2 - Check the Weather

You cannot apply any asphalt driveway sealer on wet ground. Even the slightest dampness makes the process a waste of time and money, so be sure to only consider this process on the driest of days with no risk of rain and minimal winds so the sealer can set quickly.

#3 - Prime and Prepare Your Drive

Even driveways which look clean usually aren't, unless you've just cleaned them. You should only apply driveway sealer to a completely clean surface so be sure to fully scrub and clean yours before any application. Use a pressure or power washer if at all possible to ensure all grime and oil is removed and then use fresh water to fully rinse and eradicate any dirt from the surface.

Remember, it needs to be 100% dry before you apply the sealer so give it time to dry. It's also recommended you give it a final once-over with a broom, ensuring it is completely clean and oil spots can be treated with the spot primer if needed. Be sure you're wearing old clothes and you apply duct tape to the edges of your garage and walls, to avoid the sealer spreading and staining these parts of your home.

#4 - Pour and Spread the Sealer

Following the instructions on the labeling you can now apply the sealer to your driveway. Pour the sealer onto the driveway and use the recommended tool, usually a brush or a squeegee, to spread the sealer evenly across the drive. It will adequately fill in any cracks and it will fill in any unsightly holes or loosened areas of the drive.

Once finished, let the sealer dries overnight. In many instances it is recommended you repeat the process the next day, but this will depend on the manufacturer. After the final application you should leave the sealer to drive for at least 48 hours before driving on it.

Once you know how to apply asphalt driveway sealers you are ready to deal with any issues with you drive, as and when they occur