Summer is finally here, and that means spending more time outside! If your home has an asphalt driveway, you know it requires special care and attention to keep it looking its best. One issue that can plague an asphalt driveway is rust. Rust can form for several reasons, including contact with metal objects or chemicals or simply due to age.
While rust may not seem a big deal, it can cause serious damage to your asphalt driveway. Rust can eat away at the asphalt, causing it to crack and crumble. Not only is this unsightly, but it can also create a safety hazard. Fortunately, rust removal from an asphalt driveway is relatively easy.
Causes Rust Stains on Asphalt Driveways
An asphalt driveway is a great investment for any home. Not only does it add curb appeal, but it’s also durable and long-lasting. However, your asphalt driveway can show signs of wear and tear over time. One common issue is rust stains.
Pyrites (iron) and other metal particles in the gravel used to make asphalt can cause rust stains. As water seeps into small cracks in the driveway, it comes into contact with these minerals. When the water evaporates, it leaves behind a rusty deposit.
Salt can also cause rust stains. Salt is often used to melt ice on driveways when snow and ice are common. However, salt can also seep into cracks in the driveway and cause rust stains.
Why Remove Rust Stains from Your Asphalt Driveway
Rust is a type of corrosion that occurs when iron or steel comes into contact with water and oxygen. Over time, this process will break down the metal, causing it to become brittle and flake away. As we mentioned, rust can cause long-term damage to your asphalt driveway.
Eventually, the rust will penetrate the asphalt and cause it to crack and crumble. Not only is this unsightly, but it can also lead to expensive repairs. The damage will only worsen if you don’t remove rust stains from your driveway.
So, if you see rust on your driveway, it’s important to take action immediately. The sooner you remove the rust, the less damage it will do.
How to Remove Rust Stains from Asphalt Driveways
There are several ways you can remove rust stains from asphalt driveways:
- Use a commercial rust remover that’s specifically designed for driveways. These products are available at most hardware stores.
- Make a paste out of baking soda and water. Apply the paste to the rust stain and let it sit for 15 minutes. Then, use a stiff brush for scrubbing the stain.
- Use vinegar or lemon juice to remove smaller rust stains. Pour vinegar onto the stain and let it sit for a few minutes. Then, use a brush to scrub the area.
- Pour boiling water over the rust stain. This method is most effective on small rust stains.
After you’ve removed the rust stains, be sure to seal your driveway to prevent future stains.
Rust stains on an asphalt driveway are unsightly and can lead to long-term damage. But with a little elbow grease, you can remove them yourself. Just be sure to gather the right supplies and follow the steps outlined in this blog post.
A-Rock Asphalt: Professional Asphalt Paving Maintenance
You can always hire a professional if you feel uncomfortable removing rust stains from your asphalt driveway. A professional must have the right supplies and equipment to do the job quickly and efficiently. They’ll also be able to seal your driveway to prevent future rust stains.
Hiring a professional is a great option if you’re short on time or want to be sure the job is done right. But it’s important to compare prices and services before hiring anyone. Be sure to get at least three quotes from different companies. It will help you find the best deal and company for the job.
If you need help with rust removal on your asphalt driveway or have any other questions about asphalt maintenance, contact A-Rock Asphalt today. We’ve been serving Salt Lake City, UT since 1997 and are always happy to help.