How to Repair an Asphalt Driveway Indentation

Repairing an indentation in aphalt requires some work but is not difficult.

Asphalt is frequently used on roads, driveways and other construction projects because of its cost-effectiveness and relative durability. Asphalt can last for years if it is well maintained, but it can suffer from wear and tear. This is readily apparent on many driveways due to vehicles parked in the same place for extended periods of time and the repetition of the cars going up and down it. Repairing indentations in an asphalt driveway can be done quickly with minimal fuss.

Things You'll Need

• Trowel
• Warm water
• Mild detergent
• Crushed gravel
• 4x4 wooden post
• Cold asphalt patching

Instructions

1. Dig out any loose asphalt in the indentation and wash the surrounding area with warm water and detergent. Any dirt or debris left on the asphalt can interfere with the bonding of the repair material to the driveway.

2. Fill any indentations deeper than 2 inches with crushed gravel until you have about 2 inches remaining between the gravel and the outer edge of the indentation. This will give you the best results for your asphalt patch.

3. Compact the gravel by dropping a 4x4 wooden post into it repeatedly until there is no more give in the gravel. You want as solid a gravel base as possible.

4. Fill the remaining indentation with the cold asphalt patch material using a trowel until the patch is raised about a quarter inch higher than the outer edge of the indentation. Compact the patch down with the 4x4 as you did the gravel earlier to get it about even.

5. Allow the patch 30 days to cure before trying to seal it. Avoid driving over the patch during the 30-day period as well to keep it from warping.

References

• Dulley: Fix Asphalt Driveway Potholes
• Aubuchon Hardware: How to Repair Asphalt Driveways