Retopping an Old Blacktop Driveway

Brush any loose dirt, leaves and other debris from the driveway with a shop broom. Clean the blacktop surface with a hose. Dampen it, then spray a degreaser over the surface and wait 20 minutes for it to break down any stains. Scrub the stained area with a medium-bristled brush and rinse the surface.

Fill any narrow cracks and shallow pits with elastomeric filler. Overfill the holes and tamp the filler down with the end of a putty knife.

Patch any cracks that measure over an inch wide with grade filler. Use a trowel to pack the material down and smooth the surface.

Mix asphalt resurfacer with a paddle bit and drill until it has a smooth, even consistency. Coat the perimeter of the surface first, using a wide paint brush, applying an even coat over each edge.

Pour the resurfacer into a painter’s tray and use a squeegee to apply the resurfacer over the rest of the blacktop. Spread the mix over the driveway in an S curve. Dip the squeegee frequently so you don’t stretch the material too thin.

Block off the driveway from traffic for 48 hours so the material can properly set.