How to Mix Sand Into a Driveway Sealer

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Things You'll Need

  • Degreasing detergent

  • Asphalt cold patching material

  • Black silica sand

  • Bucket or drum

  • Power drill

  • Paddle attachment

  • Long-handled squeegee

Mixing sand into a driveway sealant provides a nonslip surface. It helps to fill in small cracks and holes that allow water seepage under the driveway -- this causes shifting, lifting and cracking. The procedure keeps a driveway looking new, and protects it from the sun's harmful rays.

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Step 1

Wash the driveway with a degreasing detergent to remove oil and gas stains, which degrade asphalt. Rinse it thoroughly and allow it to dry fully.

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Step 2

Inspect the driveway for large cracks, depressions and small holes. Driveways with large holes, excessive crumbling and cracks wider than 2 to 3 inches require an inspection by an asphalt professional to determine if a new driveway is necessary.

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Step 3

Fill in cracks larger than 1/2 inch, small holes and depressions with asphalt cold patching material.

Step 4

Pour a high-grade driveway sealant into a large bucket or drum. Add water if required by the manufacturer. Add two to five pounds of black silica sand per gallon of sealant. Follow the label instructions.

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Step 5

Equip a power drill with a paddle. Place the paddle into the sealant and blend it very well to form a thick paste, known as slurry.

Step 6

Mist the driveway with plain water if the manufacturer's directions call for a wet surface.

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Step 7

Pour the slurry onto the driveway surface and spread it with a squeegee to form a 1/4- to 1/2-inch-thick, even layer. Work in small, manageable sections, generally 8 by 8 feet, rather than pouring it onto the driveway. Continue until the driveway is covered.

Tip

Allow the slurry to dry thoroughly, up to 48 hours, depending on the driveway sealer manufacturer, before driving on it.

Make repairs to the asphalt as soon as damage is visible in order to avoid future problems.

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