Winter is gone and Spring is well underway, which can only mean that Summer is next in line. What better way to spend the summer months than outside enjoying the weather, cleaning up around the yard and doing routine maintenance?
Considering all of the past snowstorms and rain, there have been multiple elements beating down on your lawn, the sidings and exterior painting of your home, and your driveway. With all of the shoveling and ice you’ve had to go through, you probably didn’t realize what was happening to your asphalt.
To help you start preparing for the coming summer months, we’ve put together a few tips to help you maintain your driveway this summer.
What Happens to Asphalt in Summer?
Depending on where you live, the summer months can be crucial to to the integrity of your asphalt driveway. Over the duration of the summer, the sun’s UV rays will cause your asphalt to become brittle, thus making it more prone to damage and usually in the form of cracking.
By following the right maintenance tips, you can keep your driveway from giving in to the sun’s harmful rays.
Tip #1: Crack Filling & Sealcoating
If you’ve recently begun to see small cracks in your asphalt, don’t worry, there’s a solution! You can start the process by filling in the existing cracks with a thick, rubberized tar. This will help to seal the cracks and prevent further damage to your driveway. After successfully completing the crack filling job, we also recommend sealcoating the asphalt.
Many people believe in sealcoating their driveway every year, but this repetitive process with the combination of cold winters and hot summers can actually damage your asphalt far more than you realize. You should only consider sealcoating your driveway every 2-3 years to help seal small cracks and to prevent larger cracks from forming as well as water from infiltrating into the base material.
Tip #2: Don’t Ignore Pooling Water
Just because it’s summer and the sun is out, doesn’t mean that it won’t rain every now and then. If you find that you’re dealing with pooling water after a heavy rainfall, know that this can lead to severe damage such as cracks and other problems to your asphalt and your sub surface.
Having the proper drainage system will save you money in the long-run, not only protecting your home from flooding but the lifespan of your asphalt.
Tip #3: Avoid Parking in the Same Spot
You probably have your own designated parking spot in your driveway, right? Or when your friends and guests come over, they probably always choose the same spot too.
Did you know that this repetitive action of having a heavy object on the same spot can actually soften your asphalt due to the heat? This can then cause your asphalt to sink in or deform. Instead of dealing with this headache, give your asphalt some rest and switch up where you park your car, heavy vehicles or equipment.
Tip #4: Steer Clear of Spills & Dirt
Day in and day out, you’ll be entering and leaving your driveway a handful of times. Seeing how we all live busy lives, you might not have the time to keep an eye on your driveway. But, you should make the time to keep it clear of any spills or dirt.
If any chemicals or oil are left to sit and dry on asphalt, it could potentially deteriorate and eat away at the tar. With increased temperatures and decreased moisture, spills from cleaning chemicals and car oils are more likely to stain.
When dirt is left on asphalt, it can potentially sneak into the grooves of your driveway, helping grass grow through and cause unnecessary problems. By being aware of exactly what falls or grows on your driveway, you’ll be able to keep it neat and help it last.
Get a Head Start on Your Summer Maintenance
Not sure on how to get started with the maintenance of your driveway? Reach out to the experts at Greenway Industries! We’ll be able to help you keep your driveway in tip-top shape this summer.
To get started on maintaining the lifespan and appeal of your asphalt, we’re only a call away! You can reach us at 203-885-1037 for a free estimates on our services!