How to Recoat a Driveway

Sweep the surface of the driveway with a broom. Wear gloves and pull out any weeds growing through cracks. If the asphalt still appears dirty, go over it with a leaf blower to remove embedded dirt.

Mix a solution of 1 part bleach and 4 parts water in a bucket. Spread the solution over the surface and scrub it with a scrub brush. Leave the solution on the surface for about 10 minutes and hose it off thoroughly.

Measure the depth of the holes and cracks with a measuring stick. Fill any holes that are less than 1/2 inch deep with elastomeric filler, using a putty knife. Compact the filler and spread it thinly around the surrounding area.

Pour sand into holes more than 1/2 inch deep until the sand is 1/2 inch from the surface. Scoop elastomeric fill into the holes and pack it down.

Mix a tub of asphalt resurfacer with a drill and paddle bit.

Use a 4-inch-wide paintbrush to paint the resurfacer onto the edges of the driveway.

Pour resurfacer over the center of the driveway and use a squeegee to spread it. Brush the material in long even strokes across the width of the driveway. Work in small sections at a time beginning at the end of the driveway nearest the house.