How To Fix Crumbling Asphalt Driveway In 3 Different Ways

Maintaining the longevity of your asphalt driveway is crucial. But what if it’s already showing signs of wear and tear?

When tackling a crumbling asphalt driveway, you have three effective solutions. Firstly, repair cracks to prevent further damage. Secondly, fill depressions like potholes and dents for a smoother surface and safety. Lastly, seal your driveway to shield it from moisture and UV rays, extending its lifespan.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the solutions that will restore your driveway and help you understand the importance of proper thickness for asphalt longevity.

How to fix crumbling asphalt driveway: Repairing cracks

Filling up small cracks is an easy DIY task. Follow our set of easy instructions on how to fix crumbling asphalt driveways when it comes to repairing cracks:

1. Clean the Cracks: Begin by cleaning the cracks with a wire brush. Brush around and inside the cracks to remove sediments, grit, and loose asphalt.
2. Remove Debris: After using the wire brush, remove all debris in and around the crack. You can use a vacuum cleaner or a broom to achieve this.
3. Pressurized Hose Cleaning: Clean the crack thoroughly with a garden hose with a pressurized nozzle. If some dirt persists, consider using a specialized asphalt driveway cleaning agent.
4. Allow Drying: After a comprehensive cleaning, allow the cracks to dry completely.
5. Apply Filler: Once dry, use your chosen filler material to repair the cracks. Apply it just once. A chisel or suitable tool can help fill the cracks effectively.

How to fix crumbling asphalt driveway: Filling in potholes or dents

Now, let’s look at how to fix a crumbling asphalt driveway by filling in potholes or dents. Follow our guidelines below on how to fill up these types of dents or potholes.

1. Clean the Area: Clean the area within and around the pothole or dent. Use a pressurized hose or a deep cleaning agent to remove dirt. If needed, a detergent can be used as a substitute for the cleaning agent.
2. Ensure Complete Drying: Allow the cleaned area to dry completely. It’s crucial that there is no water left in the pothole or dent to ensure a successful repair. Applying patching materials to a damp surface can result in subpar results.
3. Patch with Material: Apply patching materials to fill the pothole or depression—Prime the region within and around the area. Use emulsified liquid asphalt to create a solid, long-lasting repair for optimal results.
4. Level the Surface: Fill the depression with the cold patching material, using a cloth or towel to bring it level with the surrounding surface for a smooth finish.
5. Allow for Drying: Let the repaired area dry for approximately 24 hours before resuming the use of your driveway.

How to fix crumbling asphalt driveway: Sealing the driveway

Applying a concrete sealer is an easy DIY project over the weekend. It won’t cost much compared to calling in a professional to do the job, and it won’t take that long, either.

1. Clean the Driveway: Clean your driveway thoroughly to remove dirt, grit, and dust. Sweep it with a broom, and then use a hose with a pressurized nozzle to eliminate grit, grease, and debris.
2. Wait for Drying: After hosing the driveway, let it dry completely. If puddles are left behind, use a sponge or cloth to soak up any remaining water.
3. Prepare the Sealer: Combine all the concrete sealer ingredients, ensuring they are well-blended.
4. Apply the Sealer: Use a roller to apply the sealer evenly on the driveway’s surface. You can also apply the sealant on a damp surface, but for the best results, it’s recommended to do so when the surface is completely dry.
5. Allow Drying: Let the sealed driveway dry for at least 24 hours before resuming its use.

Fixing a crumbling driveway: DIY or a professional’s work?

Fixing a crumbling driveway can be a DIY or professional job, depending on the damage’s extent and your comfort with asphalt repairs. Minor issues are manageable for DIYers with tools and materials, but extensive damage or complex problems may need a professional for a lasting, safe repair.

If you’re good with DIY work and have undertaken many projects, even a complex task like fixing a crumbling driveway can be a breeze in the park. This is great and will save you a lot of money, as professionals tend to charge quite a bit for this task.

However, if you’re not adapted to working on DIY projects, we suggest looking at the nature of the work. If the task is not a lot and only a few cracks you think can fill up using a roller, go for it. Experts and professionals will make a huge bill even for a small task as they must visit your place, bring equipment, and more.