Johnson's Affordable Asphalt PavingSimple Steps to Restore Your Driveway
If you’re a homeowner or property manager, you may have faced the challenge of deteriorating asphalt. Knowing how to repair asphalt can save you time and money, and keep your driveway looking pristine. Damaged asphalt detracts from your property’s appearance and poses safety risks. Learning about asphalt maintenance is essential for maintaining a smooth and secure surface. This guide will walk you through the necessary steps.
Identify the Problem Areas
The first step in addressing asphalt repair issues is to identify problem areas, which can range from small cracks to large potholes. Evaluating the extent of the damage is crucial for determining the appropriate repair method. Small cracks are those less than 1/2 inch wide, while large cracks exceed 1/2 inch. Potholes are depressions or holes in the surface, and surface erosion refers to general wear affecting larger areas. Identifying these issues early helps in selecting the best course of action for repair.
Gather the Required Materials and Tools
After identifying the damaged areas, gather all the necessary materials and tools to ensure the repair process goes smoothly without interruptions. For small repairs, you’ll need asphalt patching compound, while larger potholes require cold mix or hot mix asphalt. Use crack filler specifically designed for asphalt to address any cracks, and apply it with a trowel or putty knife. Finally, finish the job with a sealant to protect the repaired area and ensure durability.
Preparing the Area and Repairing Small Cracks
Before applying any material, it’s crucial to clean the area thoroughly. Dirt, debris, and vegetation can prevent proper adhesion of the asphalt compounds. Use a broom or a high-pressure hose to ensure the area is spotless. After cleaning, allow the area to dry completely. Moisture can compromise the effectiveness of the repair materials. For small cracks less than 1/2 inch wide, use an asphalt crack filler by squeezing it directly into the crack, then smoothing it out evenly with a trowel.
Tackling Larger Cracks and Potholes Applying Sealant
Larger cracks and potholes necessitate more substantial measures for repair. To address large cracks, we start by pouring cold or hot mix asphalt into the crack, compacting it with a tamping tool until it’s level with the surrounding surface, and smoothing it with a trowel if needed. For pothole repairs, we first remove any loose debris, fill the pothole halfway with cold or hot mix asphalt, and compact it firmly with a tamping tool. We then add more material and repeat the compaction process until the repair is flush with the existing surface. Once all repairs are complete, apply a sealant over the entire surface. This seals minor imperfections and extends the lifespan of the repaired areas. And that is how to repair asphalt.
Hire Experts to Understand How to Repair Asphalt!
If you’re located in Naples, FL and need professional assistance, hire Johnson's Affordable Asphalt Paving. Call us at (239) 372-6252 for more details or to schedule a service appointment.