How to Maintain
Your asphalt Driveway

With over three decades in the industry, we’ve seen the difference that proper maintenance can make in the lifespan and appearance of an asphalt driveway. A well-maintained asphalt driveway can last 15 to 20 years or more, providing a smooth, attractive surface for your home. We have included some expert tips on how to maintain your asphalt driveway, but at the end of the day, asphalt is a durable, cost-effective, and resilient surface. If all you do is get regular sealcoating, that will have the most significant impact on the lifespan and appearance of your asphalt. 

 

1. Sealcoating: 

 

The most important step in maintaining your asphalt driveway is sealcoating. Sealcoating involves applying a protective layer over the asphalt surface to shield it from the damaging effects of UV rays, water, oil spills, and other chemicals. This process not only extends the life of your driveway but also enhances its appearance by giving it a fresh, black finish. Please look at our sealcoating page for more information.

 

   When to Sealcoat:

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• New asphalt driveways should be sealcoated 6 to 12 months after installation to allow the asphalt to fully cure.

• After the initial sealcoating, reapply every 2 to 3 years, depending on the level of traffic and exposure to the elements. If you aren’t sure, just contact us, and we are happy to give you our honest recommendation based on the condition of your asphalt.

 

There is always the temptation for a DIY’er to go to a big box retail store and purchase buckets of consumer-grade sealcoat. There is a lot to say about this, so check out our blog post “DIY Sealcoat” here. In short, you will not get anywhere near the protection, longevity, or appearance you are looking for.

 

When Morcom Paving sealcoats your driveway, we also fill any significant cracks in the surface. Cracks in your asphalt driveway are inevitable, but addressing them promptly can prevent minor issues from becoming major problems. This will prevent water from seeping into the base layers, which can cause further damage during freeze-thaw cycles. As with sealcoating, retail brand crack fillers found at big box stores are not a quality solution to this problem. At Morcom Paving, we use a hot commercial rubber crack fill material that sinks down into the crack, creating a watertight seal. If you want more information about the differences between the materials we use vs. what you can obtain at a big box store, check out our blog post “DIY Sealcoat” here.

 

2. Periodic Cleaning:

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Keeping your asphalt driveway clean is the first step in proper maintenance. Regularly sweep away leaves, dirt, and debris to prevent them from accumulating and causing stains or damage. For tougher stains, such as oil or gas spills, use a mixture of detergent and water to scrub the area clean. Promptly cleaning spills can prevent them from penetrating the asphalt and causing deterioration. One of the biggest issues we see in the Pacific NW is damage from moss growth. The shaded areas of your driveway are most susceptible, so when you see the moss starting to grow, just brush it off before it becomes a costly problem.

 

3. Proper Drainage:

 

Ensuring proper drainage is crucial for the longevity of your asphalt driveway. Water is one of the primary causes of asphalt deterioration. Make sure your driveway is graded correctly to allow water to run off and away from the surface. Regularly check and clean your gutters, downspouts, and catch basins to prevent water from pooling on the driveway.

 

4. Avoid Heavy Loads:

 

While asphalt is durable, it can be damaged by excessive weight, especially if the weight isn’t distributed over a larger area. Avoid parking heavy commercial vehicles or equipment on your driveway for extended periods. If you have to park heavy loads, try to distribute the weight evenly and move the vehicle regularly to prevent indentations. Commercial paving, however, is specifically designed to handle heavier loads and more use. Check out our commercial paving page here.

 

5. Prevent Weed and Grass Growth:

 

Weeds and grass can grow through small cracks in your asphalt driveway, causing further damage. Use a weed killer to prevent vegetation growth, and promptly remove any plants that manage to sprout. Keeping the edges of your driveway clear of overgrown grass and weeds also helps maintain its appearance.

 

6. Winter Care:

 

Winter can be particularly harsh on asphalt driveways. To protect your driveway during cold months, use a plastic shovel or snow blower to remove snow and ice. Avoid using metal shovels, as they can damage the surface. Use de-icing agents sparingly, as some chemicals can cause deterioration. Opt for sand or kitty litter for traction instead.

 

 

 

By following these best practices, you can ensure your driveway remains in excellent condition, providing a durable and attractive surface for years to come. Investing a little time and effort into maintenance now can save you significant repair costs and extend the lifespan of your asphalt driveway. 

 

As mentioned in the beginning, asphalt is a durable, cost-effective, and resilient surface. You don’t need to treat it too gently, and at the very minimum, just get it sealcoated every 2 to 3 years. If you have any questions or need professional assistance, don't hesitate to contact us!