How Do You Seal a Blacktop Driveway?
After preparing the surface of the driveway by removing any debris and fixing any cracks or holes, pour your choice of sealer onto the asphalt and use a long-handled squeegee or thick-nap roller to fully spread it across the surface of the driveway. Depending on the type of sealer used, the driveway dries completely within four to 24 hours. The length of a particular sealant’s drying time is often specified in the product’s instructions.
Sealing an asphalt driveway prevents erosion and the need for replacement. Home improvement experts advise spending ample time preparing the surface of the driveway for a clean, efficient seal. Remove or sweep away any large debris such as overhanging grass or leaves, then wash and rinse the driveway to remove any particulate. Patch any cracks or holes in the surface and allow them to properly set prior to sealant application.
There are several types of sealants, including tar emulsion, asphalt emulsion, latex-acrylic and liquid-rubber; each has differing application directions and drying times, so always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for a specific product. In most cases sealants contain noxious chemicals; always use safety equipment such as protective goggles, work gloves and air-filtering masks while working with sealants.
