Protect Your Driveway from the Elements

Your driveway is an important element of your home's landscape, adding to its curb appeal. However, your driveway is also exposed to the climate at all times and suffers from constant exposure to sun, rain, wind, hail, and flooding. One of the best ways to keep your driveway from deteriorating is to apply a sealer to it on a regular basis. Not only will a sealer protect against the exposure to the weather, but it also helps alleviate stains from acid spills, grease from cars, and other types of stains that your driveway might encounter. Here are some important tips when considering using a driveway sealer. 

Blacktop Driveways

Blacktop driveways are especially susceptible to fading over the years, Due to the constant exposure to UV rays and oxidation. All visible cracks need to be filled in prior to sealing the blacktop, and the temperature should be between 70 and 90 degrees during the application. Choose your sealer carefully, since the least expensive type is also the one that needs to be reapplied most often and takes longer to dry. A formula that is guaranteed for five or eight years has a longer life span and dries quicker. Ask for guidance from the sales staff in order to make the best selection. Mist the driveway to cool it down one hour prior to applying the sealer by using a roller and a long handle. 

Concrete Driveways

Start by pressure washing the concrete to remove all loose debris and to thoroughly clean the surface. Fill in any cracks larger than 1/8 inch by using a ready mix concrete and filling in the area with a trowel. The temperature should be above 50 degrees for at least 24 hours prior to applying the sealer and there should be no chance of rain for at least another 24 hours. Once all cracks are filled and smoothed out with your trowel, allow the patch to dry completely. Then, pour the water-resistant clear copolymer sealer on the concrete and spread it over the driveway by using a roller with a long handle. It will dry to a semi-gloss finish, locking out grease, salt, and moisture. The product will dry in about an hour, but should not be driven over for 24 hours.