Homeowners often choose asphalt driveways for their durability and lasting ability. However, weather, heavy traffic, and wear and tear can still lead to potholes or large cracks even with proper maintenance. While repairing significant damage to an asphalt driveway may seem challenging, it’s possible to restore it to its original state with the right tools and techniques.
In this article, we’ll explore how to repair large holes in an asphalt driveway.
Let’s get started…
Assess The Damage
To repair large holes in an asphalt driveway, start by evaluating the damage. Holes smaller than three inches in diameter can be fixed using cold patch asphalt. But, if the hole is bigger than three inches in diameter or goes through the base layer of the driveway, more extensive repairs will be necessary.
Prepare The Area
To start repairing the hole, you must first prepare the surrounding area. This includes clearing any loose debris or gravel and cleaning the driveway’s surface. You can do this by sweeping away debris with a broom or brush and then using a pressure washer or garden hose to clean the surface. Afterward, let the surface dry completely before proceeding to the next step.
Fill The Hole
For small holes, less than three inches in diameter, cold patch asphalt can be used to fill the hole. Cold patch asphalt is a premixed combination of asphalt and aggregate that can be applied directly to the hole. Simply pour the cold patch into the hole, filling it until it’s level with the surface of the driveway. Use a tamper or shovel to compact the cold patch and ensure it adheres to the surrounding asphalt.
For larger holes, more extensive repairs will be necessary. Begin by filling the hole with cold patch asphalt until it’s level with the surface of the driveway. Then, use a hand tamper or plate compactor to compact the cold patch and ensure it’s leveled and flushed with the surrounding asphalt.
Add Gravel
After filling the hole with cold patch asphalt, add a layer of gravel on top. The gravel serves as a barrier between the asphalt and the weight of vehicles, helping to prevent the repair from sinking over time. Spread a layer of clean, angular gravel over the repaired area, making sure it’s level with the surrounding asphalt.
Seal The Repair
To further protect the repair and extend its lifespan, apply a sealcoat to the surface of the driveway. A sealcoat is a protective coating that helps prevent water damage and other types of wear and tear. Apply the sealcoat according to manufacturer’s instructions, spreading it over the entire surface of the driveway. Allow the sealcoat to dry completely before using the driveway.
Hire A Professional If You’re Not Up For The Job
If you don’t feel comfortable taking on the large hole repair yourself, it’s best to hire a professional. A qualified asphalt contractor will have the experience and expertise needed to ensure your driveway is repaired correctly and will last for years to come.
Also, make sure your contractor of choice possess these following qualities:
- A proven track record of successful projects – Ask the contractor for references from past clients and ask them to provide evidence of their workmanship.
- A good reputation in the community – Check online reviews and ratings to see what customers are saying about the contractor’s services.
- Knowledgeable staff – Make sure the team is knowledgeable about asphalt repair techniques and has experience with hole repair projects.
- Affordable rates – Ask the contractor for a quote and compare it to other contractors in your area to make sure you’re getting a fair price.
We recommend you to call DNE Asphalt Services in Melbourne, FL today as they provide the best asphalt repair services at an affordable rate. Plus, they offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee so you can rest assured your driveway repair will be done right. Please visit their website today to get more information.
Conclusion
Repairing large holes in an asphalt driveway doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With the right tools and techniques, it’s possible to restore your driveway to its original condition. Assess the extent of the damage, prepare the area, fill the hole with cold patch asphalt and gravel, and apply a sealcoat to the surface. By following these steps, you can repair your asphalt driveway and extend its lifespan for years to come.
And if you’re not up for the job, hire a professional asphalt contractor to get the job done right.
