Seal an asphalt driveway

Sealing the driveway can transform it and the overall appearance of the property. It’s a small investment and a fast fix for anyone with a less-than-perfect asphalt driveway. A new topcoat improves the appearance and at the same time maintains the surface.

An asphalt sealing company will charge $650, which includes labor and material, for a typical 700-square-foot driveway. You can do it yourself for $100, the cost of the asphalt and a broom applicator and save 85% by doing the work. Wear old clothes and shoes and check the soles of your shoes for any sealer that might have stuck to your shoes before going inside the house.

The job of applying the asphalt is the last phase of the work and takes less time than preparing the surface. The prep work includes pulling weeds and removing any stones and debris in the soil along its edges. The goal is to remove any weeds growing alongside the driveway and to rake the area so it is neatly edged. If grease or oil pockmark the surface, budget a few more dollars for an asphalt cleaner; and to fill any holes, apply an asphalt patching compound for deep cracks or potholes. For small cracks, use a mixture of sand with sealer.

Carefully sweep the surface and then apply the sealer with an old push broom or applicator, spreading it while working your way out toward the street. Barricade the wet surface and park your car elsewhere while the coating dries.

To find more DIY project costs and to post comments and questions, visit www.diyornot.com and m.diyornot.com on smartphones.

Pro Cost — DIY Cost — Pro time — DIY Time — DIY Savings — Percent Saved

$650 — $100 — 3.0 — 5.0 — $550 — 85 Percent