Driveways are normally exposed to a lot of pressure from foot traffic and the weight of vehicles. Combined with the rising temperatures in summer, it’s only a matter of time before your pavement starts showing signs of damage. Extensive repairs can be prevented with a proactive approach to its routine maintenance. Here are three crucial tips for caring for your paved surfaces this season.

How to Maintain Your Driveways This Summer

1. Clean Regularly

Keep your driveway looking its best by having it cleaned regularly. Make sure its surface is free of engine fluids and other toxic liquids that can degrade the topmost layer and penetrate through the underlayment over time. Use cat litter to soak up fluids like engine oil, then flush the surface with warm water and mild detergent. For stubborn stains, you can scrub with a regular brush and grease-removing cleaners. At the very least, have your driveway pressure-washed periodically to take out deep-seated stains and grime.

2. Perform Frequent Inspections

Even if your driveway looks good on the surface, be sure to examine it carefully at least once a year. Check for low areas where water might pool during the rainy season—standing water can do more harm to the pavement over time when it seeps through.

Pay attention to cracks and holes, but don’t forget the edges as well. Some driveway edges tend to chip with heavy loads. Take a closer look at them if you often park near these vulnerable areas. If you’re unsure of what to check, have a paving contractor come and assess the structural condition of your driveway.

3. Repair & Seal

During inspections, you’ll discover issues that can still be fixed. Have these repairs done, like patching up holes and sealing cracks, immediately to prevent further deterioration. In some cases, your driveway might need resurfacing to address deep pits and potholes.

Aside from repairing, don’t forget to reseal the surface every three years and more frequently for asphalt ones. Sealing is a smart way to protect your driveway against damaging elements like water and weather changes. Have it done during fair weather days to achieve the best results.

Keep your driveways in excellent shape all year by keeping up with essential maintenance tasks. You can also hire the experts at Smith Brothers Paving to do the job for you. Serving homes and businesses throughout Cabarrus County, NC, since 1972, they provide a range of services, including parking lot paving, asphalt maintenance, and seal coating. Call (704) 786-5859 today or request a free estimate online.