Spring Clean Your Driveway

Spring has officially arrived so it’s time to get started on your spring cleaning! When you’re working through your tasks inside your home, it’s easy to forget the tasks that need to be completed outside. Of course the yard work comes to mind, but getting your driveway ready for the new season should also be a top priority.

Freeze-thaw cycles, rain, snow and daily traffic can all take their toll on a driveway. With a little hard work, you can prepare your asphalt driveway for sealing to protect it for the next season.

How to Clean Your Driveway

To clean an asphalt driveway, mix together detergent and water and use a push broom with a coarse, stiff bristle to scrub the driveway.

If you notice any oil stains, you can try to scrub them out with detergent or bleach, or with a commercial driveway cleaner. Before using a commercial driveway cleaner, try the following household cleaner:

• Using a stiff, long-handled brush, scrub the stain with a solution of tri-sodium phosphate (TSP) or phosphate-free substitute.
• After reading the instructions and precautions on the label thoroughly, scrub remaining spots with full-strength household bleach. Be sure to take proper safety precautions including wearing rubber gloves and safety goggles.
• Rinse your driveway thoroughly with a hose.

If you choose to buy a driveway cleaner, make sure you buy one that is made for asphalt. A driveway cleaner made for concrete can cause major damage to your driveway. Be sure to follow the instructions.

Inspect For Damage

Once you’ve finished cleaning the winter grime off your driveway, you can conduct a thorough inspection to locate any breakdowns in asphalt before it worsens. Look for surface cracks, divots or bubbling. Regularly inspecting your driveway for cracks and holes can extend its lifetime. Hairline cracks that go unrepaired can expand and turn into potholes or large areas of crumbling. Divots can lead to puddling of water in areas, also reducing the lifespan of your driveway, while bubbling indicates driveway deterioration.

If you notice any of these issues, contact us for maintenance options that will help you avoid expensive fixes.



With over 30 years of experience serving the Barrie and Simcoe area, Road Readie Paving has built a reputation second to none. We are committed to customer satisfaction through high quality workmanship at a competitive price. Contact us today for a free quote 705.719.0074.