How to Retop Asphalt

Although it's commonly used because of its durability, asphalt is not immune from cracking and weathering. If your asphalt surface has seen better days, it is time to resurface it. With an asphalt sealant, you can quickly retop the the surface to prevent further erosion and damage. The project takes only a few hours.

Lawn edger
Push broom
Pump sprayer
Asphalt degreaser
Nylon-bristle brush
Asphalt crack filler
Utility knife
Caulking gun
Putty knife
Coal-tar-based asphalt sealant
Applicator brush

Instructions

- 1
  Remove any overhanging grass along the sides of the asphalt surface with a lawn edger and sweep away the debris.
- 2
  Fill the pump sprayer with asphalt degreaser.
- 3
  Spray water onto the asphalt until it is damp. Spray the asphalt degreaser evenly onto the surface. (The damp asphalt allows the degreaser to spread evenly.) Wait 15 minutes for the degreaser to break up the grease and oil stains on the surface.
- 4
  Scrub down the asphalt with the nylon-bristle brush.
- 5
  Rinse the degreaser off the asphalt. Wait for the asphalt to dry; this takes two to four hours.
- 6
  Insert a tube of asphalt crack filler into a caulking gun. Carefully slice the tube's nozzle at a 45-degree angle with the utility knife.
- 7
  Fill holes and cracks wider than 1/4-inch with the asphalt caulk, and smooth down the caulk with the putty knife. Allow the caulk to dry overnight.
- 8
  Mix the sealant to a uniform consistency.
- 9
  Brush the sealant onto the asphalt, covering sections 4 feet square. Coat the asphalt with an even 1/4- inch layer of sealant. 48 hours after application, the asphalt will be ready for regular use.

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