Over time, asphalt driveways can crack, develop potholes, and wear down due to weather and traffic. If your driveway is showing signs of damage, addressing it quickly will prevent larger, costlier repairs. While professional services like Microworks are always available, many homeowners in Vancouver, North Vancouver, West Vancouver, and Burnaby can tackle minor asphalt repairs themselves with the right tools and techniques.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to repairing asphalt potholes and damage to extend the life of your driveway.
Contents
1. Gather Your Tools and Safety Gear
Before you begin, ensure you have the following:
- Safety Gear (PPE): Heavy-duty gloves, safety goggles, and a dust mask to protect against dust and fumes.
- Tools: Shovel, broom, tamper (or a heavy piece of wood to compact), and a trowel.
- Materials: Asphalt repair product (cold patch, Aquaphalt, or other specialized products), gravel (if needed), and water (if using a water-activated product).
Always prioritize safety. Asphalt repair involves heavy materials and exposure to chemicals.
2. Clean and Prepare the Pothole
Start by removing any loose asphalt, dirt, and debris from the damaged area. Use a shovel and broom to clear the hole down to a solid base. A clean surface ensures better adhesion and a longer-lasting repair.
If the base is uneven or deeper than two inches, add a layer of gravel to create a stable foundation. Gravel can be purchased in bags from local building supply stores across Vancouver and surrounding areas. If you have a pickup truck or a trailer, or can rent either, some local landscape suppliers like Creative Bricks & Blocks or Headwater Management will load you with a half yard of gravel or road base for less cost than the bagged material. This would only be necessary if the hole was quite large.
I like to fill and tamp the damaged areas using any broken bits of asphalt or dirt, which means I don’t have to remove any material from the site. Broken bits of asphalt make a great base!
3. Choose the Right Asphalt Repair Product
The right product depends on the location and severity of the damage:
- Cold Patch Asphalt: A budget-friendly option that works well for low-traffic areas like driveway edges. However, it tends to deteriorate quickly under vehicle traffic, even with thorough compaction. I would not use this for areas where you will walk or drive.
- Enhanced Asphalt Mixes: These products contain additives to improve durability and curing. While more expensive, they offer longer-lasting results and better performance in high-traffic zones.
- Aquaphalt: Available at Home Depot, this water-activated asphalt works even in damp conditions. Unlike standard cold patch, it provides a more permanent repair and is ideal for Vancouver’s unpredictable weather and steep driveways. The patch in this video was on a 40 degree incline and the customer drove on it the next day.
4. Apply the Asphalt Patch
If using a traditional cold patch or enhanced asphalt mix, wait for a dry day to ensure proper curing. However, if you’re using Aquaphalt, a bit of moisture won’t hurt—light rain is acceptable and even desirable as this product needs a sprinkling of water to cure.
- Fill the hole in layers if it’s deeper than two inches. Compact each layer thoroughly before adding the next.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Some products may require water activation, while others simply need heavy compaction.
- Overfill the hole slightly to allow for settling over time.
Use a tamper or a heavy piece of wood to compact the asphalt firmly. Proper compaction prevents the patch from sinking or breaking apart.
5. Cure and Finish the Repair
Allow the patch to cure according to the product’s instructions. Cold patch asphalt may take several days to harden completely, while products like Aquaphalt cure faster with water activation.
Avoid driving on the repair until it has fully set. If you need to use your driveway quickly, opt for high-performance repair products designed for rapid curing like Aquaphalt.
When to Call a Professional
DIY asphalt repair works for minor damage, but larger potholes, structural issues, or ongoing cracking may require professional attention. If you’re in Vancouver, North Vancouver, West Vancouver, or Burnaby, Microworks can handle the job efficiently with durable, long-lasting results.
Get in Touch with Microworks
If you’re unsure about tackling asphalt repairs yourself or want to ensure a long-lasting fix, Microworks is here to help. We offer expert asphalt repair services across Vancouver, North Van, West Van, and Burnaby. Contact us today for a free quote and let us restore your driveway to top condition.
For more in-depth asphalt repair techniques, check out these reputable resources:
