Seal an asphalt driveway

Make a change that can transform your property with a simple push broom: Seal a driveway. The sealing process is much more than a cosmetic change: It repairs a driveway pockmarked with cracks and crevices, and it prevents damage from the sun and moisture (both conditions that create cracks and crumbling in the surface).

The sealing process is the last phase of the job, because preparing the surface and surrounding lawn is important and takes the most time. Pull weeds, rake and edge so the soil is neatly trimmed back from the driveway surface. Then fill any cracks and potholes with an asphalt patching material, and use an asphalt primer or cleaner to remove any grease spots. Sweep the driveway, and then scrub it with soapy water before applying sealer. The actual application of the sealer is the finale, and doing this takes less time than the prep work.

A sealing company will charge $344, including labor and material, to seal a typical 20-by-50-foot driveway in good condition. You can do it yourself for $160, the cost of material, and save 53 percent.

Use a push broom or applicator to spread the sealer, working your way from the garage out to the street. To give the sealer time to bond to the surface and dry quickly, apply two thin coats instead of a heavy one. Asphalt is messy stuff, so be careful where you step. Before walking inside the house, check the soles of your shoes for sealer.

To find more DIY project costs and to post comments and questions, visit www.diyornot.com on your laptop, tablet or smartphone.

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

$344 -- $160 -- 2.6 -- 4.0 -- $184 -- 53 Percent

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