An asphalt driveway is low-maintenance, durable, aesthetically pleasing, and affordable. This is not some sort of too-good-to-be-true stuff. It is real. Applying asphalt to your driveway is probably one of the wisest decisions you will ever make
However durable something, sooner or later, it will be worn out and need repair. Change is the only permanent thing in the world, right? A paved driveway is long-lasting but not eternal.
Here are the dos and don’ts of asphalt driveway repair. Actually, whether you are the one doing the repair or you are hiring a contractor for the driveway repair Charleston SC offers, it is still beneficial to read this article. In the former, you will know what to do and what not to do; in the latter, you can tell if the contractor is doing the right thing.
What are the dos?
Do clear the visible cracks.
Cracks in asphalt driveways can easily allow weeds to take advantage of the available space. Begin the repair process by removing the weeds. Pull them up with your hands as much as you can. Even the best patching job can be undermined by the regrowth of hardy weeds in the exact location. Apply weed killer to the crack to prevent this problem.
You must also remove any debris that has accumulated in the crack. Clean the cracks thoroughly with a pressure washer or a garden hose with a strong spray attachment. Let the area you worked on dry for a few minutes.
Do fill in large cracks.
Suffice the visible cracks with sand to within 1/4 inch of the surface if it extends more profoundly than the shallow surface. Tamp the sand down with a steel tamper or something sturdy and small enough to fit into the crack, like the handle of a small shovel. Continue to tamp down the sand until it is within 1/4 inch of the surface. Use the proper patching compound.
Pouring the mixture directly from a bag or bucket, or scooping it into the crack with a small trowel, is a standard method. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for allowing the asphalt patch to cure. Curing could take many hours or even several days before you are able to drive in the area.
Do drive with caution.
To avoid depressions and to separate, make sure the car is moving before turning the wheel during the first few months of paving.
To avoid chipping and breaking, avoid driving along the asphalt pavement’s edge.
What are the don’ts?
Don’t park in the same exact spot.
Avoid parking in the same spot repeatedly, as this can cause depressions in the asphalt over time.
Don’t go for the cheapest option.
Indeed, it is so irresistible to shop around for the best deal on asphalt repairs and replacement, but this is rarely the best option. Choose a licensed and insured contractor who uses high-quality products to ensure the most extended lifespan possible for an asphalt driveway. Compare contractor bids carefully to ensure you’re getting the best value for the money.
Do not let heavy equipment and machinery drive in.
Garbage and dump trucks typically carry heavy loads. Allowing heavy loading puts stress on the asphalt, resulting in cracks and potholes and causing the pavement to deteriorate faster than it should. Parking large vehicles and equipment will also cause damage or exacerbate existing damage.
Don’t think that you can repair even the heavily damaged driveways.
There are skilled contractors for paving and driveway repair. To avoid further costs and damages, hire contractors for driveway repair Charleston SC driveway owners trust.