- Tidying up your ashpalt driveway

Has your asphalt driveway or patio become tired looking with cracks and oil stains from the car or bar-b-que?

Asphalt has been used for many years for driveways and patios but it does not have the strength or stability of concrete. Asphalt surfaces require preventative maintenance every 3 to 4 years to keep it looking attractive. Here are some suggestions to make your asphalt look good again. Tree roots that have come up through the asphalt should be removed. This can be done by renting an asphalt cutting machine opening up the asphalt and removing the root. You can replace the cut out section with interlocking paving stones giving some added design and better drainage to your flat surface. All oil spots should be sealed with oil spot primer and cracks filled with an asphalt crack filler. When all the repairs are completed, thoroughly clean the surface with an all purpose exterior cleaning solution available at your local building supply store. Now for the final touch, apply a coating of coal tar asphalt sealer with an applicator brush and squeegee. Pour the coating onto the surface and draw the squeegee over the surface filling all the pores in the asphalt leaving a smooth sealed surface. Use the brush to trim around curbs and edges of grass.

Article courtesy of: Shell Busey