Paved driveways take a lot of strain all year round, but are particularly affected during the winter months when extra amounts of rock salt, oil and ice enter the picture. This leads to gradual deterioration which starts with a noticeable change in its appearance in spring, and deteriorates as the years pass to points where serious damage can have accumulated which requires fully replacing the driveway.
The deterioration can be slowed, if not totally prevented, by applying an adhesive sealcoating. This coating, which forms a membrane that protects the substrate should preferably be done before the onset of winter, in reasonably dry weather and when temperatures are over 50° for the best result.
Careful preparation is needed prior to application. This includes clearing the driveway of vehicles, cutting away any invasive grass on its borders, and removing any shoots that are growing in, or through, the driveway itself. The next step is to wash away grease and dirt on the driveway using a general degreaser powered by a garden sprayer or pressure washer, and to remove stains left by oil or gas that might affect the sealcoating application using a strong cleaner and stiff brush. Finally, all large cracks or potholes must be filled.
The sealcoating is first applied along the borders of the driveway using a 4 inch paintbrush, and then to the inner area according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Blocking the driveway to people and vehicles while the sealant is drying is the best way to a successful outcome. Depending on the sealant used, the drying times may differ from about one hour for a one-coat quick-dry sealant, to as long as 48 hours when the sealant requires two coats.