ASPHALT DRIVEWAY SEALING & MAINTENANCE IN MARKHAM

Preparing a driveway for sealing begins with a thorough cleaning of the surface to ensure the sealant adheres properly and evenly. This involves removing all dirt, debris, etc, which can be accomplished using either a blower or a pressure washer for a deep clean or a stiff-bristled broom for scrubbing away loose materials and surface stains. This step is crucial as it prevents imperfections and ensures the longevity of the sealcoating.

Clipping the grass before sealcoating your driveway is important because it prevents grass blades and other organic debris from sticking to the wet sealant. This ensures a cleaner application and better adhesion of the sealcoat to the driveway surface. Additionally, trimming the grass back from the edges of the driveway can help create a more defined boundary for the sealcoat, preventing overspill and ensuring a neat, professional finish.

Removing grease and stains before driveway sealing is crucial because these contaminants can prevent the sealant from properly adhering to the asphalt or concrete surface. If the sealant cannot bond effectively, it will not form a protective layer, which reduces its efficacy in shielding the driveway from moisture, UV rays, and chemical damage. Additionally, any underlying stains left untreated can bleed through the sealant, compromising the appearance and integrity of the driveway over time.

For cracks, we use a crack filler suitable for asphalt or concrete. Cracks are filled thoroughly and the surface is smoothed. For potholes, we remove any loose material from the hole, fill it with an asphalt patch compound, and tamp it down firmly to ensure it’s level with the surrounding surface. Sealing these repairs is crucial as it prevents water from infiltrating the repaired areas, which can cause further deterioration and larger issues under the surface, leading to more extensive and costly repairs in the future. This maintenance not only extends the life of the driveway but also improves safety and aesthetics.

Cutting in borders for driveway sealing is an important step to ensure a precise and neat sealcoating application, especially along the edges of the driveway where it meets grass, sidewalks, or other surfaces. This technique involves using a smaller brush or squeegee to manually apply the sealant along the driveway’s perimeter before filling in the larger central area with a sprayer or larger squeegee. This method helps prevent the sealant from spilling over onto adjacent surfaces and creates a clean, sharp boundary that enhances the driveway’s appearance. Additionally, it ensures that every part of the driveway, including the vulnerable edges, is properly protected from wear and environmental elements.

We apply the driveway sealant uniformly using a squeegee or sprayer, depending on the driveway size. Care is taken to ensure even coverage, avoiding pooling of the sealant. After application, the driveway must be left to dry and cure for the recommended time—usually 12 to 24 hours—before it can be used again. This curing process is essential for the sealant to set properly and provide effective protection. However, it is water/rain-safe 15 minutes after application.