As a homeowner, you know that maintaining your property’s value and appearance is crucial. One of the most overlooked areas of the home is the driveway. Did you know that the weather can significantly impact the lifespan of your driveway? In this article, we’ll discuss how elements like rain, snow, and heat can harm your driveway and what you can do to protect it.
The Impact of Rain and Snow on Your Driveway
When rainwater or melted snow seeps into the tiny cracks on your driveway’s surface, it freezes and expands, causing the cracks to widen. You’ll often see more significant signs of damage during the spring as the ice and snow melt. This process weakens the integrity of your driveway and can lead to potholes and cracks. Over time, these issues can become very costly to repair. We’re always striving to provide a complete learning experience. Visit this handpicked external website and uncover more details about the subject. asphalt cold patch.
Protecting Your Driveway from Rain and Snow
The most effective way to protect your driveway is by having it sealed. Sealant blocks out water and extensions the life of your driveway. It’s a DIY-friendly project and can be completed over the weekend. The materials required would be a broom, leaf blower, driveway cleaner, a squeegee, and the sealant.
Start by removing any debris, dust, and dirt from the driveway using the broom and leaf blower. Apply the driveway cleaner based on the manufacturer’s instructions and use a pressure washer or garden hose to rinse it off. Give the driveway around 24 hours to dry fully before applying the sealant. Most sealants need to be applied at a temperature of 50 degrees Fahrenheit for at least two days. Use a squeegee to apply the sealant evenly, and let it dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions before driving on it again.
The Impact of Heat on Your Driveway
Extreme heat can also damage your driveway. Direct sunlight will dry out the asphalt in your driveway and cause it to crack, crumble and fade. Therefore it’s essential to regularly maintain and care for your driveway to ensure it lasts.
Protecting Your Driveway Against Heat Damage
An easy way to protect your driveway from the sun’s rays is to park cars and heavy objects in a garage or under a deck. Also, a sealant can protect asphalt from the striping UV rays of the sun. Asphalt sealing also helps to inhibit water penetration that can destroy the pavements sub-base leading to heaving and cracking. Sealant on the asphalt helps to reduce the penetration of gasoline, motor oil, and other debris that can cause damage to the pavement structure. Not sure which sealant to use, consult with a professional. Dive deeper into the topic and discover extra information in this specially selected external resource. asphalt cold patch, investigate fresh information and viewpoints regarding the topic covered in the piece.
The Bottom Line
Your driveway is an important part of your home, and it’s essential to protect it from the elements. Regular maintenance will ensure that it lasts for years to come. Use a sealant to protect against rain and snow, and avoid leaving heavy objects on it for extended periods of time to prevent heat damage. If you have any questions about maintaining your driveway, contact a professional for help.
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