One area that tends to get overlooked when you’re preparing your yard for summer is the driveway, but this outdoor space can quickly become unsafe if you don’t tend to it properly. Keeping your driveway maintained and safe can help prevent accidents and save you money on repairs later on.
There are many different things to consider when you want to keep your driveway well-maintained, but with these five simple steps, you’ll be on your way to keeping your driveway in the best shape possible this summer.
1. Check and Repair the Cracks
A cracked driveway can lead to severe problems. It’s essential to check your driveway for cracks regularly and repair them promptly. There are some ways you can fix these cracks yourself. If you find cracks, remove the dirt from them with a broom.
Mix up some concrete with one part cement and two parts sand. The consistency should be a little bit thicker but not as thick. Pour the mixture into each crack and press it down with a trowel. You can also have asphalt repairs from experienced driveway construction contractors to get the job done in a more professional way.
2. Seal Your Driveway
Sealing your driveway every few years is an easy way to keep your driveway protected from the elements. It’s also a good idea if you’re looking for a fresh look, too. One of the best times of year to seal your driveway is during the summer months, when the humidity will help seal in moisture and protect it from drying out.
3. Remove any Stains ASAP
It’s important to address any stains as soon as possible. Whether it’s oil, paint, or tar, you want to get rid of it before it has a chance to dry and become more difficult to remove. The best way to do this is by using a grease-cutting soap mixed with hot water.
Scrub the area with a stiff brush and rinse well with a pressure washer or garden hose. This will remove the stains and will also clean the driveway.
4. Regular Sweep Away Debris
It is important to regularly sweep away any debris from your driveway. The key is to do this before it becomes too much of a task, which can be difficult if you let leaves pile up for months.
If the leaves are already piled up, then you will have a bigger job on your hands and should consider using a leaf blower or shoveling them out one by one.
5. Wash Your Driveway
A driveway is a big investment, and it’s important to maintain it well. Power washing can be expensive, but hiring a professional once a year will keep your driveway looking clean and new for years. You don’t have to do the work yourself, and power washing only takes an hour or two.
However, you should also keep in mind that frequent washing can also lead to cracks and holes in the asphalt. Therefore, it’s recommended to wash the driveway once a year just to make sure you are on the safe side.
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