Cracks that develop on an asphalt driveway tend to accelerate the rate at which the driveway deteriorates. This is because when water accumulates in these cracks and then freezes, it expands and applies pressure on the walls of the cracks. This widens the cracks, worsening the problem. There is also the fact that cracks on an asphalt surface's coat expose the inner layers to ultra violet rays that then weaken the driveway's asphalt-asphalt bonds.

Given the effect that cracks such as alligator cracks have on a driveway's deterioration rate, it is advisable that you repair these cracks as soon as they appear. One of the most important stages in the repair process is surface preparation. This is because it helps ensure better bonding between the repair layer and the existing layer, something that eventually leads to durable repair work. The following are the different ways through which you can prepare your asphalt driveway.

Use a stiff-bristled broom

A broom is great for getting rid of any leaves that are lying around the area that is to be repaired. You can use it to also get rid of any loose pieces of asphalt on the repaired area. This will ensure the repair material has a strong-enough base to hold to, guaranteeing a long-lasting repair.

Use a back leaf blower

Since a stiff bristled broom can create loose pieces of asphalt in the repair area, you can opt for a more-subtle approach. The back leaf blower gets rid of any dust, dirt and loose debris by simply generating enough air pressure to blow them off the asphalt surface. It allows for a less-aggressive cleaning technique that still gets the job done.

Use a pressure washer

Using water on your driveway will help to wash away any dirt and debris on the surface. The pressure from the pressure washer will also dislodge any loose debris that is in the area that is to be repaired.

The only thing that you should keep in mind when using this method is that the surface has to be allowed to dry before any work can begin. The good news is that if you are in a hurry, you can always use a blowtorch to dry up the area.

Use a propane torch

In addition to drying a wet asphalt surface, a propane torch can come in handy in helping to get rid of any vegetation in the repair area. It does this by simply burning the protruding growths, something that does away with the need to physically uproot them. Sweeping off the burnt vegetation is all that will thereafter be needed to end up with a clean asphalt surface.

A repair product, such as from Roklin Systems Incorporated, can also help.