How To Carry Out Asphalt Maintenance Central Alabama

Posted by Unknown on 1:33 AM with No comments
By Douglas Stone


Asphalt maintenance is very crucial when it comes to management of property. Over a period of time, people prefer to use asphalt for driveways as opposed to concrete. These driveways should be maintained on a regular basis, otherwise their condition will deteriorate. They should be properly maintained and more so in areas with harsh weather conditions. The surface is damaged by corrosive materials and heat. In considering asphalt maintenance Central Alabama residents can benefit from some tips.

Filling of cracks and sealing the sideways are some of the expected maintenance practices. The procedure always starts by removal of debris. You will need to pull any grass that has grown up along the driveway through cracks. At the same time, any weeds growing on the sideways will be removed. Should there be any stains such as oil spills or gas, they can be cleaned using mild soap.

Next, you will have to sweep debris on the way. Using a crack sealer, it is possible to fill fissures, cracks and holes that over time might have started to form. This should be done according to the instructions that are on the sealer. This way, you can get good outcomes. After it sets, you hose the driveway in order to remove any debris that might still be remaining. Dirt is also removed.

In case a power washer is used, you have to use fan-type nozzle and in the process avoid washing of areas that have been newly filled. You will need to leave the driveway to dry for a day or so before it gets sealed. The best time to do sealing is during summer since the seal will dry effectively and faster. It can also be done during early fall prior to leaves falling. Seal is applied on a sunny day and left to dry for at least 24 hours.

For sealing a driveway, one will first need to select a sealer. The two most common are coal tar and acrylic. Coal tar has been around for the longest time. It is resistant to weather and has long-lasting black sheen on it. When it is used, it needs to be re-applied every three years whenever there is aesthetic need.

Acrylic is a bit new in the market. It is very durable and offers better barrier between asphalt and any materials that might damage it. These include oil, gasoline among other elements. It is very environmental friendly but is also costlier than tar. It is however applied after six years, which makes it economical eventually.

Cracks are supposed to get repaired immediately they are realized. If they are not, water gets into them and thaws, causing more extensive damage. As the damage continues to spread, repairs will cover a larger area and thus become more expensive.

Well maintained driveways prevent vehicles from getting damaged. The damage is normally caused by large cracks and potholes. The appearance of such driveways is also negatively affected.




About the Author: