The salt air and rolling fog down in the Sunset or Richmond can take a toll on a paved driveway very quickly. Keeping your pavement sealed is the only way to block out that moisture before it starts causing damage to the binder. Alpha Asphalt San Francisco spends our days fixing what happens when asphalt gets left bare too long. A fresh slurry seal acts like sunscreen and a raincoat all rolled into one, but asphalt sealing still needs a little routine attention to really go the distance in San Francisco.
What Regular Upkeep Looks Like
You do not need a massive toolbox to keep your sealed surface in good shape. Start by hosing down the driveway or parking lot every couple of months to clear away the grit, falling eucalyptus leaves, and organic debris that trap moisture against the surface. If you park a vehicle that drips oil or transmission fluid, clean it up fast with a degreaser. Petroleum eats right through the emulsion, turning a hard surface into a sticky mess.
Spotting Early Warning Signs
Catching small issues early saves you from paying for a total repaving job down the road. Keep your eyes peeled for hairline cracks opening up in the seal, or areas where the dark rich color is starting to fade into a dusty grey. If you spot standing water that refuses to drain after a typical San Francisco misty morning, you are looking at a low spot where the seal might break down prematurely under tire weight.
When to Call in Reinforcements
Some jobs are too big for a Saturday DIY project. If you see alligator cracking webbed across large sections, or if the edges of your asphalt are starting to crumble away near the curb, you need professional eyes on it. Alpha Asphalt San Francisco can tell you whether another coat of slurry will do the trick or if you are looking at needing deeper structural repairs first. For homes and businesses in San Francisco, Alpha Asphalt San Francisco provides Asphalt Sealcoating services.