A driveway at the front of your home can be a massive improvement and an amazing feature. It ranks high on the list of improvements to a property that can add significant value, but that means that you need to be sure that you know how to look after it.

Drainage & Why It’s So Important for Your Driveway

Weather is a very real threat to the integrity of a drive, and for asphalt driveways, there are additional threats that you need to be aware of. From getting the right coating to ensuring that you understand the importance of drainage for asphalt driveways, here are the best ways to ensure that you increase the longevity of your driveway.

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Make Repairs Quickly

The moment that you spot a new crack in your driveway, you need to address it. Those cracks can cause substantial damage if left to get worse. One of the major reasons for this is down to water. Rainfall will get into those cracks, and if it freezes and melts, it’s stretching the asphalt, making cracks even worse. If that happens, then dirt, grass, and weeds can start to build up and grow. Clean out any cracks and use driveway filler to make repairs.

Keep it Clean

Some of the substances that your drive will be exposed to can cause damage if left alone. Motor oil, transmission fluid, and even brake fluid can all hurt the integrity of your asphalt. If you spot a spill, then hose it down. However, it’s wise to avoid using a power washer when you have an asphalt drive, as they are often too powerful. They might even start to tear up the surface. Use a hose to rinse off mud and spillages, but make sure that you understand the importance of drainage for asphalt driveways because washing down your drive without adequate drainage can be very damaging.

The Importance of Seal Coating

90 days after your drive has been installed, you need to have it sealed. Once done, it will need to be done at least once a year. This process can have a dramatic effect on the lifespan of your driveway, and can even double it. Asphalt is prone to oxidation caused by the elements, with the sun, rain, and snow all helping to make sure that your asphalt becomes faded and brittle. Make sure that:

● There is no chance of rain immediately after the coating
● The driveway is clean and clear
● You use a commercial detergent and a hard brush to clean the surface
● You make sure that there is no moisture on the driveway before you start with a sealing job
● Nobody uses your drive for 24-hours after adding sealant

The Right Drainage

This is by far the most important thing that you can do to protect your drive. Proper drainage is essential if you want your driveway to last, and is the first thing that you should assess before you start to install your driveway on the first place. If your driveway does not have adequate drainage, then there’s a good chance that you will need to have a fully replaced driveway within just a few years.

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Hire Tar King for Expert Tarring Services in KZN

It doesn’t take a lot of time or money to look after your driveway. For added curb appeal and adding more value to your home, a well maintained and looked after driveway might be more effective than you think. Keep following the blog for more driveway inside info, or get in touch with us now for a free quote.