How to Seal an Asphalt Driveway

Asphalt driveways eventually break down from heat, sunlight, salt and wear. Keeping up with cracks before they expand, then applying an asphalt sealer prolongs the life of the driveway. A newly sealed asphalt driveway always adds a nice look to a home.

Things You'll Need

• Edger/trimmer
• Weed killer
• Detergent
• Bucket
• Scrub brush
• Water
• Crack sealer
• Crack patch
• Trowel
• Garage broom
• Hose
• Asphalt sealer
• Paint stick
• Wide squeegee
• Empty drums
• 2 x 4

Instructions

Preparing an Asphalt Driveway

1. Remove grass and weeds growing in cracks and along the driveway. Use an edger or trimmer for the driveway sides and spray weed killer or hand pull weeds and grass from the cracks.

2. Clean away all gas and oil stains with detergent. Mix with water in a bucket and scrub the area with a brush.

3. Use crack sealer or patch to seal needed areas. Get a can or dispenser type sealer to fill in cracks under 1/2 inch and asphalt patch for larger jobs. Use a trowel to apply the patch. Read directions for drying time.

4. Take a garage broom and sweep away all debris.

5. Hose the driveway clean with water.

Sealing an Asphalt Driveway

1. Open a bucket of asphalt sealer and stir for consistency. A paint stick works well.

2. Pour enough sealer from the drum to work small areas with a wide squeegee.

3. Push the sealer back and forth with the squeegee. Keep the sealer coat thin and even. It's a lot like painting a wall with a roller. Cover the entire drive.

4. Clean up the squeegee with water when finished.

5. Stay off the driveway for at least 24 hours. If needed, take two drums and place a 2 x 4 across the top to keep cars and people away.

Tips & Warnings

• Purchase supplies at any home and garden outlet center. The driveway sealer usually comes in 5-gallon drums. Buy enough for the job. Look on the brand name's label for coverage per drum. Estimate the amount needed by measuring the length and width of your driveway: L x W = Area.

• Wear gloves and old shoes.

• Obtain best results by sealing the asphalt driveway every other year.

• Never seal when temperatures drop below 50 degrees.

• Avoid sealing when there's a chance of rain over a 36-hour period.