Why You Should Seal Your Driveway Before Winter
Being inundated with fall chores is common for most people this time of the year. Everyone is in a rush to get their home prepared for the winter weather. Being proactive now can have a significant difference in minimizing repairs in the future and protecting your property.
One less common but important fall chore is to seal your driveway before winter. There are a variety of reasons why your driveway needs a little TLC before winter. Sealing helps to prolong the lifespan of your driveway, in addition to protecting it against the frigid temperatures, snow, ice, salt, and the beating it takes from snowplows, snow blowers, and shovels.
The good news is that driveway sealing is a simple DIY project that you can accomplish in only a few hours. Here is how you do it:
- Examine your driveway – look for trouble spots
- Scrub away stains
- Fill the cracks
- Patch potholes
- Prep the driveway for sealing
- Pour a one foot wide section of sealant across the driveway
- Spread the sealant using a squeegee or appropriate brush
- Cover about a three square foot area
- Repeat until the drive ways is covered.
- Make sure to overlap previous sections
- Go back with a brush and spread out excess sealant.
- Allow to dry
- Apply a second coat
- Block of the driveway and refrain from using it for at least 24 hours
- DONE! Your driveway is prepared for winter!
Sealing Tips for an Expert DIY Job
To ensure your sealing job is done to the best of your ability, here are some additional tips for dealing your driveway before winter:
- Check the forecast before applying the sealer. Wait for a sunny day so the sealer will be able to dry properly
- Make sure you have all the tools and supplies you need before starting
- Even though there are a number of sealant options, advanced latex acrylic sealers last longer
- Each type of sealant is different. Make sure you read the instructions carefully before starting
- It’s ideal to apply sealant in the morning so it will have enough time in the sun light to dry properly
Are you planning on sealing your driveway before winter? Have you already done it? What advice can you offer to others preparing to protect their driveway against the winter elements?