Protecting your asphalt surface is a task that will pay off for several years. After the initial investment in installing the surface is paid, it's up to you to make those smaller investments into maintaining the surface to ensure optimum lifespan. What can you do to protect your asphalt surface? Here, you'll find a few tips to help you do just that.

Yearly Asphalt Sealcoating

For best results, your asphalt should be sealcoated each year. As the sealant is applied to the surface, it fills in all of the cracks and divots that may have formed over the years. This prevents water from making its way under the surface and causing damage to the ground below. Failure to do so can result in dips, cracks, potholes, and overall failure of the surface.

Asphalt sealcoating is best done by professionals. This is for two reasons:

  1. They'll be able to identify any issues with the surface that need further attention before the situation worsens
  2. The sealant will be applied at the right temperature using the proper techniques to ensure full coverage and protection.

Cleanings Between Sealcoating

Between each sealcoating job, keep up with the cleaning.

  • Sweep or use a leaf blower often to remove all loose debris.
  • Sweep or squeegee standing water from the surface — take note of where the water is not draining for future repairs.
  • If you notice dirt beginning to build up in a certain area, spray it clean. Allowing dirt to remain on your asphalt surface will open the door to moss growth. 

Edge The Surface

Edging the surface means using a weed eater to trim the grass away from the edges of the surface. Keeping this area well maintained will help to protect the edges of the surface and prevent them from caving in.

Eliminate Moss Immediately 

Moss can become a problem very quickly. You can remove the moss and prevent it from re-growing by following these steps:

  1. Use a flat spade to scrape the moss off of the surface.
  2. Remove as much debris that the moss has left behind as you can.
  3. Use an herbicide to kill the moss spores left behind deep in the surface.
  4. Rinse well.
  5. Keep an eye on the area and remove the debris build-up immediately.
  6. Contact your asphalt professional to find out how to put a stop to it permanently.

Your asphalt surface can last many great years. A little work and knowing when to call for help will help to ensure you keep it that way. Speak to an asphalt sealcoating service to find out more.

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