Most common driveways found in Michigan are: Concrete, Asphalt, and Aggregate. Many people in Grosse Pointe choose an aggregate driveway or patio simply due to the added strength and durability the crushed rock provides. At Morris Family Windows and Gutters we can clean all of these surfaces. But did you know, we also provide driveway sealant for all aggregate and concrete surfaces?
You may have noticed that over time the pieces of aggregate can dislodge (especially with water damage and harsh weather conditions) and can leave cracks or even holes. Major damage requires resurfacing, but one preventative measure that is advised is sealing.
Industry standard recommends sealing your driveway or patio every 2-3 years. This will extend the life of your aggregate or concrete and keep it clean and safe in the long run.
Usually I say to go by vision. If you can slight cracks - it is time to reseal.
There is no reason to do every year (and this will actually cause the sealant to build up and flake off if you seal too often); but if there is one takeaway from this blog, it is: do not wait too long before resealing your driveway!
(I'm talking to you Mr. Bruce, next door who waited a decade to think about it.)
These hairline cracks, if let go, will produce larger cracks and further damage over time. When you see a crack, its time to fill and seal!
The DIY Version to Seal Your Own Aggregate Driveway or Patio
Step 1 - Remove grime and grease stains with a power washer and a scrub brush. Any debris remaining on top of the driveway will weaken the bond with the new seal, so you want to make sure this is cleared to the best of your ability. There is no point of sealing your driveway or patio if it is not clean, period.
Step 2- Fill any cracks and holes (this includes dislodged stones) with vinyl concrete patching compound using a putty knife and trowel. Make sure this is the same color as your base (which is usually grey). Apply the compound and wait a few hours for it to dry. The same rule applies to this as it does to hair dye (so I'm told). It is always best to test a patch first!
Note: Steps 3-5 are for resurfacing and may not be applicable if you are simply sealing.
Step 3- Use a roller brush to apply a coat of bonding adhesive over the entire driveway.
Step 4- Mix a package of concrete and water in a concrete mixer until it is thick and spreadable. Tilt the mixer over the surface and spread it with a gauge rake. Pull a screed board over the driveway to make the concrete level.
Step 5- Use a shovel to scatter decorative stones evenly over the surface. Press the aggregate into the wet concrete with a wood board, pushing just hard enough to embed the rocks in the wet concrete. Wait about two hours for it to begin hardening.
Step 6- Hose off the surface and use a stiff broom to brush off the thin top layer of cement. Expose only the top of the aggregate. If the depth of exposure is too much, the rocks will soon dislodge.
Step 7- Roll a coat of penetrating sealer over the driveway with a roller brush after it cures for about a week. Note, all sealant is not made equally. Opt for professional grade whenever possible. You will then want to stay off your surface for 24-48 hours to let the sealant cure.
Not into DIY? Thats ok!
If you are in the Grosse Pointe or St Clair Shores areas, we would be more than happy to give you a quote for your driveway or patio. Pretty much any surface thats concrete, aggregate, or stone- we can seal.
Please give us a call or text at 313-752-1300 to discuss any sealing, resurfacing, or new services. We are here for you, Michigan!