Now is the time to patch your driveway
Hi, Keith,
I have a couple places in my asphalt driveway that are beginning to crack and crumble. I would like to repair the areas before the winter hits. Where would I start?
Sheri, Belleville
You are correct that winter will be too late for asphalt repairs. When water seeps into the crevices, it will expand and contract with freezing, thus making the problem more severe. Repairing most driveways is not for the professionals anymore. A new looking and fresh looking driveway can be completed by the do-it-yourselfer.
Figure 1 by Prime Buyers Report
As with most home repairs, preparation is the key. The damaged areas must be clean of debris and any loose material by using a wire brush and/or cold chisel. Minor cracks can be filled with with liquid asphalt crack sealer commonly sold in cans and plastic pour bottles. Cracks more than a half inch can be filled with asphalt cold-patch. Depressions, commonly known as “bird baths,” hold water and can also cause deterioration if not corrected. The depressions must be leveled, allowing the water to drain. These can be filled with emulsified liquid asphalt or “driveway" coating.
Figure 2 By Tim Carter
For more damaged areas, you may have to remove all the asphalt down to the dirt below. Again, remove any loose asphalt and fill up to four inches from the top with gravel. Apply an asphalt cold-mix patch. Be sure to prime the area first; lay two inches of patch at a time while securing with a tamping tool or garden roller.
Give your driveway a fresh new look with asphalt seal coating. The best tool for application has been with a squeegee, more so than a broom. This process can be a little messy, so take your time and avoid splashing. If you have slippery areas add sand into the mix to prevent slips and falls. Do not skimp on the application.
Paul is a State of Michigan Licensed Builder. Paul serves as President and founding member of Nationally franchised HandyPro Handyman Service, servicing Washtenaw, Wayne and Oakland Counties. Listen to Paul every Saturday at 11:00 a.m. on “It’s Your Home, Let’s Talk About It” WAAM Talk 1600AM. Email questions or comments to kpaul@handypro.com.
Comments
Bruce Dyson
Mon, Sep 19, 2011 : 8:28 p.m.
Our painting contractor came out and repainted the outside of our garage. And while he was here he recommended that we get the cracks in our driveway sealed to prevent water from seeping in under the foundation. Your article explains it perfectly, thank you so much!
Shmit Lorrie
Fri, Jul 22, 2011 : 4:25 p.m.
I've heard of industrial painting firms covering their driveways in heavy duty paint after it has aged a awhile. The paint tends to keep the driveway intact longer, as the paint prevents sun damage.
Ginny
Wed, Mar 9, 2011 : 8:29 p.m.
Thank you! For months, I have been trying to explain to my coworkers (whom I carpool with) why there are so many potholes on the highway we drive on to get to work. Your first paragraph explains it perfectly and also why we need a concrete contractor to fix our roads. The asphalt just won't do any more. I will definitely forward this on to my coworkers.
Keith A. Paul
Mon, Oct 11, 2010 : 8:21 a.m.
Although it can improve the appearance of an old driveway, the main reason to periodically seal a driveway is sealing cracks - water can penetrate a crack allowing water to form underneath the foundation and loosening and eroding the soil compromising the driveway's integrity. Also during winter, water can expand when frozen causing further damage. There is controversy on sealing high quality asphalt driveways made with limestone because of resistant to cracking. Also never seal a new driveway, it must age allowing certain oils to evaporate and strengthen the driveway.
lukn2lrn
Sat, Oct 9, 2010 : 1:06 p.m.
We've been told by a few asphalt people that seal-coating doesn't really help the longevity of a driveway, but is more to improve the looks. Do you agree?