How to Seal a Blacktop Drive
Whether you have a new driveway or an older one, sealing it will make it last longer, look nicer and protect the surface for years to come. Sealing the blacktop should be done annually for the best results, and it can be done in a single day. High-quality sealants are available at most building-supply stores, home centers and hardware stores. You will need a few tools, but you can do the job quickly. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Asphalt sealer
- Asphalt crack filler or cold patch
- Squeegee with a long handle
- Large paintbrush
- Garden hose
- Stiff-bristled push broom
- Edger or line trimmer
- Putty knife
Instructions
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Inspect and Repair
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1
Us an edger or line trimmer so grass is not growing over the edge of the driveway. This will make for a nicer finished look and will keep grass out of your sealer.
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2
Sweep the entire driveway with a stiff-bristled broom. Spray water on the driveway as you are sweeping remove sand and debris from cracks.
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3
Allow the asphalt to completely dry, including any standing water in the cracks. Remove sand, grass clippings or other debris from cracks with a sharp tool, such as a trowel or putty knife.
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4
Fill any cracks. Allow the filler to dry for at least 24 hours.
Seal the Deal
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5
Coat the edges of the driveway with sealer, first using a large paintbrush. Ideally, a six- to eight-inch band around the edges makes it easier to spread sealer without coating anything bordering the driveway.
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Starting at the highest point of the driveway, spread sealer evenly with a large squeegee. Gravity is your friend during this process.
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Working down the driveway, spread the sealer from edge to edge until it is completely covered with a thin, even coat. You might need to apply two coats to get a smooth, finished look.
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8
Block of the end of the driveway with the empty sealant buckets to keep vehicles off it. The sealer must dry for about 24 hours before you can drive or walk on it.
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Tips & Warnings
It is best to seal your asphalt driveway in mild weather--50 to 80 degrees and little to no humidity works best.
Wear work clothes and gloves. Sealer will ruin any clothing it contacts.
