How to Clean Asphalt

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Cleaning asphalt is a task that many homeowners do once or twice each year. With asphalt driveways, the process of cleaning typically requires using the right combination of cleaning products to help loosen oil and other types of stains from the surface, making it possible to restore the look of the area to its original condition. Fortunately, it is possible to clean asphalt using products and tools that are already around the house, making it easier to do the job without incurring a lot of expense.

Steps

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    Use the oblong push broom to sweep away leaves, grass cuttings, loose dirt and other residue that is lightly resting on the surface. Removing all loose dirt and grime will make the task of actually cleaning the asphalt much easier. [1]
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    Use the garden hose to apply the water over the surface. Taking the time to thoroughly moisten the surface of the asphalt before beginning the cleaning phase will help loosen some of the minor residue that may be embedded in small crevices in the surface of the asphalt, making the overall cleaning effort a little easier. [2]
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    Accomplish this by coating the heavier stained areas with laundry detergent. Pour a generous amount of the powdered detergent directly onto oil and similar stains. Allow the detergent to set for several minutes, soaking into the wet surface and beginning the task of lifting oil and other stains from the top layer of the asphalt. [3]
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    Combine 1 part laundry detergent with 3 parts water and 1 part bleach. Make sure the combination is mixed thoroughly.
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    Pour some of the cleaner onto a section of the asphalt, and then use the hand brush to work the product into the asphalt. Use a combination of clockwise, counter-clockwise and back and forth movements to work the bristles into the surface of the asphalt. This will help dislodge any residue that is continued to remain adhered to the surface. [4]
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    As the final phase of the asphalt cleaning, use a high pressure stream of water from the hose to rinse away the cleaner and the dislodged dirt and grime. Survey the condition of the surface and take note of any lingering stains or surface grime. Administer additional cleaning product and brush vigorously before rinsing the area a second time.
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Expert Q&A

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  • Question
    Can I seal or coat an asphalt?
    Sina Kamran
    Hardscape Specialist
    Sina Kamran is a Hardscaping Specialist and the Owner of Design Scapes, Inc. in Santa Monica, California. With over 15 years of experience, he specializes in customized, site-specific hardscaping and landscaping design/build projects. He's a certified National Concrete Masonry Association (NCMA) designer, a certified installer with the Interlocking Concrete Pavement Institute (ICPI), and a Rain Bird Certified Irrigation Professional. Additionally, Design Scapes, Inc. has many 5-star rated reviews.
    Sina Kamran
    Hardscape Specialist
    Expert Answer
    Yes, I typically apply a thin top coat to refinish asphalt. This maintenance step is done approximately every other year or every three years. For cleaning, pressure washing is the most effective method.
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    Where do I buy 'flag'?
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    They are sold by the bundle in different colors and can be bought at any sprinkler supply store, hardware store, Home Depot, etc. They cost $10 to $15 on average, maybe less.
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      Tips

      • In lieu of mixing your own cleaning solution using products found at home, it is also possible to buy products that are especially formulated to clean certain types of asphalt surfaces. Most involve combining with water in measured amounts, and can be purchased at home supply stores.
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      • When cleaning asphalt driveways, using a power washer is often a great way to get the job done quickly. However, a power washer is not a good idea for cleaning asphalt shingles, since the water pressure can actually damage the shingles and ruin the roof.
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      Things You'll Need

      • Garden Hose
      • Bucket
      • Powdered Laundry Detergent
      • Liquid Bleach
      • Hand Brush With Stiff Bristles
      • Oblong Push Broom With Stiff Bristles


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      Expert Interview

      Thanks for reading our article! If you’d like to learn more about asphalt cleaning and maintenance, check out our in-depth interview with Sina Kamran .

      References

      1. ↑ https://www.bobvila.com/articles/driveway-cleaning/
      2. ↑ https://www.bobvila.com/articles/driveway-cleaning/
      3. ↑ https://removeandreplace.com/2014/08/06/5-ways-to-remove-oil-stains-from-an-asphalt-driveway/
      4. ↑ https://removeandreplace.com/2014/08/06/5-ways-to-remove-oil-stains-from-an-asphalt-driveway/

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