If you’ve just recently had a new asphalt driveway installed, or if you plan on installing one sometime soon, you’ll want to keep it looking new for as long as possible. The best way to accomplish that is to start your maintenance routine right away. As is the case with any type of pavement or household improvement, it’s always cheaper to take care of it to begin with rather than to pay for repairs later. Here are a few tips on how to keep your asphalt surface looking new for as long as possible.
- Keep water off the surface. One of the most common ways that asphalt is damaged is from water. It can seep into even tiny cracks in the surface of your asphalt. That can weaken the sub-layer and result in even larger cracks and potholes. It’s important to keep water completely off the driveway, if possible. Downspouts should direct water into areas far away from the asphalt. If the gradient of your adjacent yard causes water to stream toward the driveway, install edging or some other type of buffer to keep it from doing so. Fill in tiny cracks as soon as you notice them to keep water from seeping into the surface.
- Have curbs installed around the driveway. Consider adding curbs or a border around your new driveway to further protect it from water and any chemicals you might use on your lawn or adjacent landscaping. Although this is a slightly more expensive option, it’s definitely the best way to protect the surface from damaging fluids and water.
- Keep the driveway clean. Sweep or blow off the surface several times a week to keep it free from leaves and debris. If vehicles leak fluid onto the driveway, use a quality product designed to remove those stains as quickly as possible.
- Be cautious when pulling into and out of the driveway. Asphalt is, without a doubt, a durable material. But it can still be damaged from unsafe driving. This is especially true in driveways, where pulling in and out to quickly can cause damage to the surface.
- Have the driveway seal coated as often as necessary. Seal coating on a regular basis helps to protect the asphalt, and extends the overall life of the surface. Your local paving contractor can determine how often you’ll need to seal coat your driveway, which is partially based on the local weather conditions and usage.
Your new driveway not only adds curb appeal; it also increases your property value. So keep it new-looking for as long as possible with these easy maintenance tips.