How to Seal an Asphalt Driveway

Sealing an your asphalt driveway to prepare your home for the summer gives your property that professional look. Follow these simple steps to get a beautiful driveway this summer.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Asphalt Sealer
• Squeegee or sponge mop

1. Area Preparation
   
   Clean the area to be sealed by sweeping it, the washing it with a hose, and finally allowing it to dry.
2. Planning
   
   Check the weather forecasts. Most sealers require at least 24 hours to dry. You'll want to choose hot, dry days to allow the sealer to dry. You will want to park on the street during this time also.
3. Sealer
   
   You can purchase sealer at a home improvement store. Sealers range in price from around $18 for 5 gallons up to over $35. The more in price the longer the sealer is supposed to last. I usually buy the sealer with a 2 year warranty.
   
   One 5 gallon pail gives a 2 car driveway one single coat. I usually do two coats every other time I seal it.
4. Starting
   Most sealers will recommend using a squeegee, but I use a $1 sponge mop and toss it when I'm done.
   
   Determine where to start and work toward. Don't box yourself in!
   
   Open the pail and mix the bucket. I stick the entire mop head to the bottom of the pail and start plunging it up and down slowly as to not splash any out. Mixing takes a long time, but a good mix will ensure a good finish.
5. Sealing
   
   Tip the pail so that you dump a pool the size of a dinner plate onto the area to be sealed. Use the mop or squeegee head to "paint" the sealer onto the driveway.
   
   I like to start working it back toward me. Be careful around edges. It's just like painting.

Tips & Warnings

• Take the time to get the sealer mixed. It's worth it in the end.
• Wear old shoes and clothes. This stuff doesn't come out.
• Use WD-40 or bug and automotive tar remover to remove the sealer from things you don't want it on.