When you have asphalt on your property, keeping up with its maintenance is critical. Not only does this ensure your curb appeal, but it also guarantees everyone on your property is safe. Here are a few do’s and don’ts of taking care of your surface.

Do:

Repair potholes.

Cracks and holes will form as the surface degrades, and they can turn into large potholes if they aren’t handled quickly. These chasms let water and other grime into your pavement, which will weaken it further. Potholes are also dangerous for pedestrians and drivers, and they compromise your property’s curb appeal.

Remove standing water.

Water can be damaging to asphalt, especially if it gets into cracks and degrades the sublayers. If you notice puddles or excess water that isn’t filtering off your driveway or lot, remove as much as possible and call your paving contractor to check for better drainage options.

Don’t:

Ignore debris.

Give your asphalt a weekly sweep to remove leaves, twigs, dirt, and other particles. Regular cleanup keeps your driveway looking welcoming and reduces the risk of this debris compacting during a rainstorm, degrading asphalt.

Forget to seal coat.

This creates a barrier to keep the material resistant to water, vehicle fluids, and even the sun’s rays. Apply a fresh layer every five years to ensure the surface of your driveway or parking lot remains intact and protected. If you notice your asphalt changing from a crisp black to a dull gray, your surface is experiencing excessive oxidation from the sun’s UV rays. Oxidized asphalt is brittle, and it’ll worsen as people and cars move over it. Sealcoating the surface regularly will protect it.

If you’d like professional assistance caring for your driveway or parking lot, contact the team at Pacific Asphalt & Maintenance in Kahului, HI. This locally owned paving contractor has over 25 years of industry experience and serves residents and businesses across Maui. As the only company in the state that produces a seal coat, their sealcoating process is specifically designed to withstand the Hawaiian climate. They also specialize in asphalt repair, striping, and oil spot services. View their gallery of past projects online, or call (808) 244-4555 to schedule an appointment.