What Power Do Electric Gates Need?

by Editor

By their very nature, electric gates need some form of power if they are going to move when you want them to. There are a number of different ways to provide this power, depending on your property layout and your personal preferences.

In this article we’ll look at the common power sources for electric gates so you’ve got a better idea what to ask from your electrician.

Overview of Electric Gate Power

Contents

There are a number of different ways to provide power for your electric gates. While there are some outliers and variation within the market, generally electric gates are powered by one of the three following options:

Batteries
Solar systems
Mains electricity

Each of these sources of power has their unique benefits and drawbacks. It’s worth considering these before paying to have electric gates installed. In this way, you’ll start off on the right foot, and will avoid the potential for costly corrections further down the road.

Let’s look at each of these in turn.

Batteries as a Power Source for Electric Gates

In what circumstances might a battery-powered electric gate make sense?

Benefits

Ideal for Remote Properties/Gates

Mains electricity isn’t always a practical option. In these cases, battery-powered electric gates can be a worthy alternative.

One example of where this can come in handy is if your electric gates are located a long way from your property. Running an electric cable such a long distance would be expensive and impractical, but batteries can save your day.

Similarly, if you live in an area where mains electricity cannot always be relied on then a battery-powered system can ensure better reliability.

Quick & Cheap to Install

Battery-powered electric gates tend to be quick and easy to install, primarily because you don’t need to worry about fitting new electric cabling from your home or business to the gates. You simply connect up the battery and get going. For those homeowners looking for the lowest-effort installation process then this is surely the best.

Fewer Health and Safety Concerns

Running an electric cable to your gates poses potential health and safety risks. Firstly, you’ll need to ensure the cabling is suitably protected, and secondly that it’s buried to a reasonable depth. Even then, a live cable running across your land can potentially present a health and safety risk, should someone accidentally cut through it when digging at a later date.

Less Reliant on Weather Conditions

Generally speaking batteries are less weather-depending than, for example, a solar system. The battery may drain a little faster in cold winter weather, but at the same time you don’t need to worry about whether there’s enough sunlight to charge it up.

Drawbacks

While battery-powered electric gates might sound ideal, there are some significant disadvantages to be aware of.

Heavy and Inconvenient to Move

Batteries can be bulky and heavy. At some point you’re going to need to recharge them or replace them, and this can require some serious effort. This is especially so if your electric gates are located some distance from your property. Now imagine doing this in bad weather and it’s obvious why some people decide against a battery-powered system.

Requires Regular Recharging

When the batteries run low you’ll start to experience issues with your electric gates. Long before they stop opening or closing entirely, insufficient power can result in electric gates that get stuck part way or open on their own.

A battery-powered electric gate is far from “hands-off” as you need to be routinely replenishing the power. This adds to the effort, and may nullify the “effort saving” aspect of owning electric gates.

Risks Failure in High Use Areas

If your gates are used regularly then there is a risk the battery will run out at a highly inconvenient time. Just as you’re leaving home on the school run, for example. If it’s just a handful of family members using the gates on occasion then this should be far less of an issue.

Solar Powered Electric Gates

Solar powered electric gates often also incorporate a battery. In essence many can be thought of as a battery-powered electric gate that recharges itself. Clearly this has benefits as it removes the need to charge the batteries yourself, except in situations where insufficient sunlight is present for an extended period of time.

Benefits

No Manual Battery Recharging

Assuming it’s been correctly installed, a solar system should recharge your battery on autopilot. This means far less chance of your battery ever running out of power, and it also removes the need to manually recharge the system regularly. This in itself can be a huge time saver for the busy homeowner.

Equally Suitable for Remote Gates/Properties

LIke a stand-alone battery-powered system, solar systems can work just as well in remote locations. This is especially so if your gates happen to face south, where the panel can absorb as much sunlight as possible throughout the day. Just as with the battery-only system this saves time and money in having to hire some workmen, dig a trench, lay a mains cable into it and so on.

Environmentally-Friendly Power Source

By its very nature, solar power is renewable and sustainable. In contrast, much mains electricity comes from non-renewable sources. It could be argued, therefore, that a solar powered electric gate is the most environmentally-friendly option on the market.

Cheaper to Run

The cost of energy just seems to keep going up and up. Little wonder that so many people are looking to limit their energy use wherever possible. A solar-powered electric gate of course benefits from “free” energy from the sun. This makes them cheaper to run, though the initial setup costs may be higher than for the alternatives.

Drawbacks

More Expensive to Install

As mentioned in the previous point, solar powered electric gates can sometimes appear more expensive, due to the fact that you’re having to buy the solar panel(s) in addition to everything else.

While this may be true, be mindful that other power sources may have “hidden” costs that aren’t factored into the equation. For example, running an electric cable to your gates may quickly add to the price.

Requires Decent Light Levels

Direct sunlight is central to an effective solar setup. That means you’ll want to position the solar panel(s) for optimal sunlight. Depending on your property this can be challenging, especially if there are many large trees and shrubs near the target location, casting shade for much of the day.

May Struggle in the Winter Months

Solar panels perform best in bright sunlight. Cloudy weather, snow, mist and more can all negatively affect how much power can be generated. So consider your local climate, especially in the winter months, before making a final decision. In some cases opting for a larger solar array than you think you’ll need may help; as productivity falls in the winter you’ll stand a greater chance of producing the level of power required.

Electric Gates Powered By Mains Electricity

Arguably the most common power source for electric gates is mains power. This makes a lot of sense, as it removes the need to mess around with batteries and chargers. With the previous options, however, it might not be the best option for all situations.

Benefits

Most Practical Long-Term Solution

With the exception of the odd power cut, one of the most appealing draws of powering your electric gates with mains power is simply how reliable they are.

No messing about with flat batteries or hoping there’s enough sunlight for your solar array to work properly.

No matter what the weather, how matter how much you’ve used your electric gates recently, they just work with the minimum of fuss and effort.

Unaffected by Weather Conditions

If you’ve ever tried using solar panels to recharge batteries then you’ll know just how variable the output can be. Snow sitting in the panels can significantly impair their ability to produce energy. Grey, overcast days can cause similar issues, as can the shorter days in the winter. All told, the vagaries of the weather can be a frustrating experience for some electric gate owners.

Mains power, of course, keeps working irrespective of the weather, so you’re unlikely to be caught short in poor weather: those electric gates should keep opening and closing on demand no matter what the weatherman says.

Can Be Used in Conjunction with a Battery

Just because you opt to power your electric gates from the mains doesn’t necessarily mean you have to rely only on that power source. It is entirely possible to fit many electric gates with an additional source of power – a backup battery.

The real benefit of this is when it comes to a power cut. Rather than having to manually open or close your gates under such circumstances, instead the backup battery springs into action, covering the shortfall, running until mains power is restored.

Drawbacks

While so far mains electricity as a power source for electric gates all seems to smell of roses there are a handful of downsides to be aware of…

Will Require the Services of an Electrician

A mains electrical cable can be a dangerous thing if not fitted properly. As a result you are strongly advised to hire a qualified electrician to ensure the cabling is safe and legal. While this isn’t a huge drawback, it can add to the expense and hassle of getting your electric gates up and running.

Additional Cabling Will Be Necessary

How far is it between your electric gates and the nearest power source? If you’re like many people, the answer is quite some distance. Under these circumstances it may be necessary to dig a trench across your land, and lay the cable into this at a depth that prevents anyone from accidentally cutting through it when digging.

This can be a messy process, and whether you dig the trench yourself or hire a professional there are likely to be additional costs such as the hiring of a mini digger to move the earth.

Additional Health & Safety Concerns

A professionally-installed subterranean electrical cable should be safe, but if it is incorrectly installed there will always be a risk of making contact with the cable when spiking your lawn, digging up a plant etc. Be sure to hire only the most qualified and experienced tradesmen for this purpose.

Increases Cost to Run Electric Gates

Unlike solar power, which largely makes electric gates free to run after installation, having gates that operate on mains power will increase your electricity bill somewhat. Exactly how much can depend on a range of factors, so if it’s a concern you’ll need to do some math, but whatever the case your energy bill is going to go up. If you’re very budget-conscious then a mains-powered setup may not be the best option for you.

Can You Power Wash Your Garage Door?

In most situations garage doors can be safely power washed to remove dirt and grime, leaving a sparkling end result. However there are a few important considerations before you start on the process. Considerations Before You Power Wash Your Garage DoorContents Before you go and retrieve your jet wash from the garage there are a few elements you should consider. This should help to avoid unnecessary issues down the road. Garage Door Material Generally speaking metal or composite garage doors can be safely power washed. However if you’ve opted for a beautiful timber garage door – such as those that swing open with hinges at the sides – then power washing may not be a good idea. The force from a power washer can damage the beautiful surface, causing additional hassle and expense. Condition of Your Garage Door A garage door that has seen better days may come off badly from being power washed. For example if your garage door has loose or flaking paint, then the power of a jet wash is likely to make this considerably worse. Not only will your garage door not thank you, but you’ll also have to go to the trouble of brushing up all the paint flakes thereafter. In contrast, a garage door that has been suitably looked after and has a surface that is in a decent condition should make a good candidate for power washing. Weather Conditions Power washing is a job best done in good weather conditions. There are a number of reasons for this. Firstly, on a dry, still, sunny day your garage door will dry quickly and efficiently. This will reduce the chance of the water leading to rust. Just as importantly, rainy weather can splash up dirt and grime from your driveway, quickly returning your garage door to how it looked before washing. For the above reasons, the best option is to power wash your garage door on a dry morning, where there is plenty of time for the door to air-dry naturally. Is Power Washing Really Necessary? One final consideration before we move on to how to power wash your garage door, is whether it’s really even necessary in the first place. Certainly, power washing is fun for many people, so there’s that consideration. But it can also be a pain to get the equipment out, fill it up, use it, and then clean everything down afterwards. In many cases a bucket of soapy water and a sponge can be just as effective, especially if the issue is loose dust and dirt rather than baked-on stains. Assuming you’ve committed to power washing (and why now?!) here are some handy tips to make things go smoothly… How to Power Wash Your Garage Door Let’s be honest: power washing can be fun. But if you want the very best results possible from your efforts, there are a few aspects worthy of consideration… Consider the Contents of Your Garage Not all garage doors are 100% water-tight. Quite the opposite: many are designed with small gaps around to permit ventilation in the winter months. But this means there is a risk of some spray making it into your garage even with the door firmly shut. Consider whatever you’re storing immediately behind the garage door, and whether it would cope getting a bit damp. Cardboard boxes and such might be safer moved away during the cleaning process. Protect Yourself Before Starting Consider protection equipment, especially in warmer weather where shorts and t-shirts may be the order of the day. At least consider wearing some gloves to protect your hands. You’re also likely to get quite wet when power washing your garage door, as spray-back is almost inevitable. So don’t wear your finest designer outfit on the day! Start By Soaking The Door Just like soaking the dishes, initially wetting your garage door can start the process of lifting stubborn marks and stains. Whether you opt to use a low on low power, or grab a bucket, an initial soak can make the whole process easier. In the same way, adding some detergent to the water will also help. In warm weather be sure to start the power washing soon afterwards, otherwise the door may dry out quickly after soaking. Consider a Gentle Scrub Afterwards While it’s unnecessary in many cases, some homeowners like to quickly run over the garage door with a sponge, to further loosen any dirt and debris ready for the “main event”. This can speed up the power washing process in some cases, particularly when a garage door is particularly heavily-soiled. Work in the Right Direction Now it’s time to power up the jet wash! The key is being methodical, and working from the top down. In this way, the dirty water runs down over the areas you haven’t yet cleaned. As many garage doors have horizontal lines, ribbing or patterning across them, it can be wise to start at the top, working left to right. Once that top part is done, move your attention down a little and do another horizontal pass. With each sweep you move further and further down the door until you reach the bottom. All the time, the area above should remain cleaner than it otherwise would have done. At the same time, on heavily-soiled doors some spray-back is inevitable. Rinse the Garage Door Power washing is fantastic for blasting off dirt and grime, but the process can splash the dirt onto other parts of the door. Be honest with yourself after the power washing process and consider whether a final rinse is warranted. Often going over it one last time with a garden hose can make the difference between an “ok” job and a great one. Clean the Driveway Rain has a nasty habit of kicking up dirt from your driveway, and essentially sticking it back onto your garage door. This can make the impact of your cleaning depressingly short-lived. If you want to do a really thorough job then after cleaning your garage door, also clean your driveway. Power wash the dirt away, use a broom or a garden vacuum. Remember: a cleaner drive will mean a cleaner garage door. Considerations for Drying If the weather is good then drying your garage door might be a moot point. Just leave it in the sun to dry naturally. However, depending on the material your garage door is made from, or the weather conditions on the day, you may want to consider partially or fully drying your garage door after treatment. A squeegee can be handy for this. Even better, my tool of choice is a window vacuum like Karcher. It’s quick, easy, and means no streaking at all. I believe the end result makes the small additional effort worthwhile. [...] Read more...

Does Rain Affect New Asphalt Driveways?

Asphalt driveways have many benefits for homeowners but two major inconveniences are the drying and curing processes. Effective drying and curing is essential to ensure the longevity of your new asphalt driveway, and complications during this initial period can result in cracking or a loosening surface, that can significantly shorten the lifespan and aesthetic appeal of an asphalt driveway. Given the importance of this process it is hardly surprising that rain is a major concern when it comes to freshly-laid asphalt. In this article we’ll discuss how rain affects your new asphalt driveway, and what can be done to minimize the dangers. Why Is Rain So Dangerous for New Asphalt?Contents Heavy rain can have a number of deleterious effects on freshly-laid asphalt. Some of the most common issues are: Delays Drying & Curing Time A freshly-laid asphalt driveway cannot be immediately walked or driven on. Instead it requires time to dry out and reach the required consistency where it is strong yet flexible. A central part of this drying process involves the evaporation of excess water after laying. As should be obvious from this, additional water being added to the surface can significantly delay this time. This can be frustrating as you’ll be left just staring at your unusable driveway, willing it to dry out properly so you can stop parking your car on the road. Washes Away Oils and Salts Think of tarmac as a very precise recipe. The drying and curing process is akin to putting that recipe into the oven to gently bake to perfection. Heavy rain soon after laying the driveway is like suddenly adding a load of extra random ingredients to the mix just before baking. It just messes up the whole balance, and risks ending up with something quite different to what you intended. Heavy rain can wash out the oils and salts that are crucial for a successful drying and curing process, or can water them down, causing them to be less effective. Leads to Expansion & Contraction Asphalt is a permeable surface. This means that water can soak into it. This is most likely after heavy rain, where puddles may form on the surface, slowly soaking into the surface. Arguably the most damaging impact of heavy rain is that the rain is the damage it can do as it expands and contracts within the asphalt itself. This unbalances the structural integrity of the driveway and can result in cracks appearing in your driveway, or chunks of the surface flaking off like sunburned skin. Clearly this isn’t ideal and may require some expensive and frustrating remedial work. How Long Does Asphalt Need to Dry Before Rain? Ideally a freshly-laid asphalt driveway should be allowed to dry for at least 12 hours before rainfall is expected. Of course, the longer the time the better. In general an asphalt driveway will have dried enough after 2-3 days to be safely walked on, at which point rainfall will do less damage. Even under these circumstances, however, rain can still be a risk until the driveway is properly cured; a process that can take 6 months or more. And even then enough rain, particularly when it pools in great enough volumes, can cause issues. The key message is that the sooner it rains after pouring your asphalt driveway, the bigger the negative impact is likely to be. How to Avoid Rain Damage to a New Asphalt Driveway If rain is such an issue for a new asphalt driveway then it’s worth bearing in mind the following handy hints to minimize the risk to your beautiful new drive. Check the Weather Forecast The most obvious first step is to keep an eye on local weather conditions. While the subsurface layer can be worked on during inclement weather, it’s worth only pouring the surface layer when you’re guaranteed a day or two of dry weather. Consider the Time of Year Winter is generally not the best time to be laying a new asphalt driveway due to the rainfall experienced at that time of year. Instead wait until the worst of the rainy weather is behind you. While this may be frustrating if you’re desperate to get started on your new driveway, in this case your patience will be repaid with a much nicer end result. At the same time, asphalt that dries out too quickly can be a problem in the height of summer, in which case it may be necessary to gently wet the driveway as it dries and cures. If the process of drying happens too quickly then the impact can be just as bad. As a result, arguably early summer (before the heat gets too intense but the rainy season is over) and fall can be the best time to lay a new asphalt driveway with a minimum of fuss. Install a Drainage System Asphalt driveways are easily compromised by excessive rain at any point in their lives. As a result, installing a drainage system makes a lot of sense. While it will add to the overall cost of installation, it can make for a worthy long-term investment. The point of the drainage system is to quickly wick away excess rain so that it doesn’t soak into or sit on your asphalt driveway. It can be sent either to an underground soakaway or straight into your mains drain instead. Remove Pooling Water Puddles on the surface of your asphalt driveway should be avoided wherever possible. Sadly, slight undulations in the asphalt surface are quite normal, giving rain somewhere to gather. Hopefully your drainage system will have helped to resolve some of this rain. At the same time, if you find puddles growing on your new driveway then consider using a yard brush to move it off the driveway and onto the garden. Be careful on very recently-laid asphalt though – you won’t want to risk damaging the uncured surface with a stiff brush. In these cases you may need to consider a more gentle solution, like using towels etc. to soak up excess moisture for the first few days. Keep Some Tarpaulins on Hand Tarpaulins can be handy for temporarily covering a new asphalt driveway should rainclouds suddenly roll in unexpectedly. They can be draped across the surface and weighed down with bricks. The tarpaulin can therefore bear the worst of the rain, and any rain pooling on the tarpaulin can be gently tipped off. Just be mindful that you shouldn’t walk on a new driveway for the first few days after laying. You’ll therefore need to consider how you’ll cover the driveway without stepping on it. In many cases this will involve two or more family members gently taking a corner each and stretching it out over your driveway. Seal When Possible Lastly, and thinking slightly longer term, sealing your asphalt driveway after it has dried can help to reduce water ingress. While you should be mindful not to seal the surface too soon (thus locking in moisture that needs to escape during the drying process) you also won’t want to leave it too late. Follow the instructions on the tin carefully to ensure you seal your asphalt driveway at just the right time. [...] Read more...

How to Make Block Paving Look New

Block paving is a great way to add curb appeal to your home and is known to have a long lifespan when properly cared for. This ongoing care is particularly important when you consider the cost of replacing a block paved driveway. Sadly, block paving can start to lose its luster over time. But there are solutions. If your existing block paving is starting to need a little love to bring it back to its former glory then you’re in the right place. In this article we’re going to discuss some simple and practical ways to make your block paving look like new. The Process of Making Block Paving Look NewContents Here’s how to turn back time on your tired old block paving driveway, pathway or patio. While it’ll require a little time and effort, it’s still a lot cheaper and easier than having your block paving replaced completely. And lastly before we get started, many of these jobs are most easily accomplished in good weather. If you’ve got the option, wait till spring when you can expect plenty of dry weather to complete the steps below… Remove Weeds and Moss Weeds and moss can build up on block paving. To state the obvious, they look tatty. However they can also represent a danger to your family (because they can be slippery in wet weather) or to the block paving itself (because large weeds can disrupt the surface). Removing weeds and moss is generally pretty simple, though the more often you do it, the easier it gets. When weeds have been allowed to grow to large proportions the job tends to be considerably harder. There are a variety of techniques that can be applied, depending on circumstances. It may be necessary to use two or more of these methods in conjunction to really get the neat, weed-free look we all admire. Wire Patio Brushes Wire patio brushes are fantastic for getting into the joints between block paving where most weeds grow. Care should be taken when using them, though, as it is possible to damage the block paving surface. If it’s been a good long time since you last cleaned the joints it’s also likely to be pretty back-breaking work. This is why cordless electric patio brushes are increasingly popular; they save on time and effort, while allowing greater precision in use. Weedkillers Weedkillers can be a low-hassle way to remove weeds, though you’ll need to be patient for the weedkiller to work its magic. It often takes several weeks for the weeds to fully die off, and then of course you’ll still need to go round and remove the now-dead plants from your paving. Additionally, before applying a weedkiller consider the potential health implications. Weed killers are unpleasant chemicals for people, pets and wildlife. If you’ve got kids then you may want to avoid their use, ditto for owners of dogs or cats. Lastly if you do decide to press ahead then be sure to protect yourself suitably with gloves, a mask etc. Weed Wands Weed wands contain a small gas canister that can spit out flames to essentially roast any unwanted weeds without the need for chemicals. They’re safer for wildlife, pets and children, and impact weeds much quicker than weed killers. At the same time you’ll still need to pull up the now-charred weeds and dispose of them appropriately, rather than leaving them in the ground. One downside to weed wands is that they may not kill the roots of the weeds, so there is a greater chance of them regrowing than when using weedkillers. Liquid Moss Remover Liquid moss remover is a chemical way to remove slippery moss and algae from the surface of block paving. As with all garden chemicals be sure to read the instructions carefully and to protect yourself from chemical spills. Jet Wash A power washer or jet washer can be a fantastic chemical-free way to rid your block paving of moss and certain smaller weeds. At the same time this can allow you to properly clean the brickwork too, though be aware that it will also remove any loose jointing. Clean Thoroughly Once you’ve removed weeds, moss and algae, the next step is to clean the paving itself. Lichen can grow on block paving in damp areas. Environmental pollution dulls the color. Soil that has run off from the garden can leave a film over the surface. Effectively block paving cleaners are available to help bring the blocks back to their former glory. As previously mentioned, a jet washer can also be a godsend for such situations, with the power of the water blasting dirt and grime from the surface of the bricks. These two forces can even be used in conjunction for a really thorough clean. Repoint Joints With Sand Repointing will help to refresh the appearance of your block paving yet further, as well as reducing the chances of further weed regrowth. In essence repointing gives you an attractive finish that is hard for weed seeds to colonize. Seriously deteriorated joints may need to be removed entirely before replacement. This is not a pleasant job, and you may wish to defer to a contractor who can achieve the result with the minimum of fuss. Alternatively, less seriously damaged joints can simply be topped up. Apply kiln-dried jointing sand to the surface and brush it into the gaps between blocks or bricks with a firm garden brush. Apply a Block Paving Sealer Once your block paving is cleaned, weeded and repointed one final worthy final step is applying a sealer. This should only be done when your driveway is perfectly dry, and ideally when several days of fine, dry weather can be relied on. A block paving sealer helps to create a protective surface over your block paving, which reduces the build-up of moss, algae, dirt and weeds. In other words, while sealing your block paving may sound like an unnecessary luxury, it will in effect save you lots of effort in the future while keeping that pristine look for longer. As always, be sure to read the instructions on the tin carefully. It is normally recommended to apply two coats, allowing suitable time between coats for the first to dry. Plan to stay off the sealed surface for a few days until it is properly dry. Two Additional Block Paving Options to Consider While the above steps will do a brilliant job of making your block paving look like new, there are two other practices that you might want to consider. If so, though, be careful to consider how they fit into the previous plan, and that no chemicals are likely to react badly with one another. Consider a Color Enhancer/Intensifier Depending on the stone or brick used to create your block paving a color enhancer or color intensifier can completely transform the appearance of your paving. In essence color enhancers darken the brickwork, making the colors appear bolder, more intense and more freshly-laid. Consider Block Paving Paint While all the above steps will help to improve the overall appearance of your block paving, it is a reality that over time all brickwork and paving will start to lose its luster. One cheaper alternative to having a whole new driveway fitted is to consider the use of block paving paint. Coming in a wide range of different colors, block paving paint allows you to retain the structural integrity of your existing driveway, path or patio, but completely update its appearance. Such paint will also help to protect the block paving, extending its life yet further. How to Make Block Paving Shiny Some homeowners admire block paving with a shiny end finish. Luckily this is surprisingly easy to achieve with just a little effort. To make block paving shiny you simply want to apply more sealer than you normally would, and to ensure the sealer you’ve chosen is capable of giving a shiny (rather than) matt appearance. While most block paving sealers recommend two coats should be applied, by applying three or more coats you should easily achieve the glossy, shiny appearance you desire. Conclusion Making block paving look like new isn’t complex, but does of course require some effort (and a little expense). However the costs, time and simplicity mean that it is a home project which almost anyone can achieve over a gentle weekend or two. Bringing your block paving up to scratch may not be the most exciting task in the world, but the difference these simple tasks can make is incredible. Every time you get home or glance out of your window you’ll thank your past self for that little bit of effort you put in. And of course if and when you ever decide to sell your home in the future, that clean, bright, new-looking block paving can only help to seal the deal at the price you were hoping for. [...] Read more...

Does Salt Damage Asphalt?

As the temperatures begin to inch ever closer to freezing it’s natural to consider how best to avoid the dangers of a slippery asphalt driveway. Snow and ice on the surface can increase the risk of slips and falls for pedestrians, as well as making driving more risky. While there are a variety of ways to avoid such situations, possibly the most popular (and most practical) option is road salt. While we all know that salt is effective in icy conditions, a common concern among those of us with asphalt paths or driveways is whether salt can be damaging. After all, little point in avoiding a few days of slips if you’re going to have to replace the driveway come springtime. Does Salt Hurt a New Asphalt Driveway?Contents Salt is safe to use on asphalt when properly applied. While historically many homeowners were advised against using salt on their asphalt driveway, the reality is that these days we know that modern asphalt is not harmed by de-icing salt. Why Do Some People Say Salt Shouldn’t Be Used? While salt is perfectly safe to use on a properly cared-for asphalt driveway, it can cause issues on asphalt driveways that are already damaged. In cases where asphalt is already cracked, salt can speed up the deterioration of the surface. This happens when the salty water enters the existing cracks. As water freezes and thaws it expands and contracts. This can destabilize asphalt when it happens below the surface. Saline water tends to freeze and thaw more frequently, so the deterioration happens that much quicker. The key is to repair any cracks in late summer or fall, before the winter rain and snow begins. In that way you know you’re safe to use salt on your asphalt driveway whenever the need arises. How Does Salt Prevent Ice on My Driveway? The use of salt to prevent ice and snow is quite simple. When the water that makes up the ice or snow touches the salt, the fresh water becomes salty. Salt water has a far lower freezing point, so it prevents the moisture from becoming ice. It is the same reason why the ocean so rarely freezes, even when there is thick snow or ice on land nearby. Some homeowners opt to combine road salt with coarse sand, primarily because salt is reasonably expensive. Mixing it with sand helps it to go further. However the coarseness of the sand can also help to keep freezing to a minimum. On a microscopic level, sand grains are sharp and abrasive. As you walk or drive over it, not only does it give your boots and tires more traction, but it can also help to grind any ice away from the surface of your driveway. How to Apply Salt to Your Asphalt Driveway Applying salt to an asphalt driveway is pretty simple. There are really only three factors to consider. Firstly, it’s important to salt your driveway before the freezing conditions arrive. Keep an eye on local weather forecasts and when you see the temperature heading down to freezing, get out with the salt. While salting after ice or snow has formed will still provide some benefit, it is far less effective than applying it before the freeze. Secondly, note the recommended coverage on the bag. Try to follow these guidelines for best results, so you’re not wasting de-icing salt by over-applying it, or not adding enough. Thirdly, spreading salt is not a particularly enjoyable job for a number of reasons, so it pays to get prepared for salt spreading. Salt is heavy, so spreading it manually can be back-breaking work. Salt is also corrosive and can damage clothing and footwear. The solution is to dress up in clothes you won’t worry about. Study wellington boots work well as footwear, for example. And even more importantly, invest in a salt spreader. While it may seem like a waste of money, trust me that your back will thank you for years to come. Suddenly salting becomes almost a pleasant job, quite at odds with the pain and sweat of trying to spread salt using just a shovel. Can You Use Table Salt on Your Driveway? Table salt can be used on asphalt driveways. Chemically, it is exactly the same as the big bags of salt purchased from hardware stores to use on driveways. The only real downside is that table salt costs far more. So while it can be used in an emergency, it is more cost-effective to invest in a few bags of proper de-icing salt. What Are the Downsides To Using Salt On an Asphalt Driveway? You might be surprised to hear that not everyone uses de-icing salt on their asphalt driveway. This is because there are a few major drawbacks you might not be aware of. Firstly, the salty liquid produced when rock salt and ice combine can be detrimental to the environment. There have been cases of lawns, shrubs and prize trees being damaged by suddenly being deluged with saline water in large enough volumes. The less fussy you are about your front yard, or the fewer plants you have there, the less of a concern this will be. Secondly, salty water rapidly corrodes metal. This is why cars tend to rust quicker in coastal areas, as the salty air speeds their demise. If you drive a new, expensive car, you may therefore want to avoid the use of salt on your driveway. Conclusion While salt does have a few potential downsides, it is so effective and has so few alternatives, that many homeowners opt to use it through the winter anyway. The good news is that salt won’t damage asphalt driveways, though this assumes your driveway is crack-free and otherwise in good condition. Just be mindful of the damage that salty water on your driveway can do to clothes, plants and vehicles before you decide if it’s the right solution for you. [...] Read more...

How to Remove Oil From Tarmac Driveways

When you park your car on a tarmac driveway it’s really only a matter of time until you suffer from an oil spill. Spilled oil looks unsightly, of course, but there are other potential issues too. For example, liquid oil can be walked into your home causing damage to interior flooring. Lastly of course oil is also highly flammable, so can represent a very real danger to your property and your family. Little wonder then that you’re here looking for how to remove oil from tarmac driveways. Luckily, there are some proven ways to do just that, and get your tarmac driveway looking like new once again… Use Cat Litter to Absorb Liquid OilContents First and foremost we need to draw a distinction between liquid oil that is sitting on the surface of your driveway, and long-dried oil spills that are really just a stain now. For liquid oil a good starting place is soaking up the fluid as quickly as possible. Cat litter is possibly one of the best options here, due to its highly absorbent properties. Simply scatter generously over the spill, allow it to soak up the oil, then use a dustpan and brush to scrape the oily mess up and dispose of it appropriately and legally. Of course, not all of us are cat owners, and time is of the essence so some other options are available. Other possibilities include sawdust, bark chippings or even old rags. The goal is to try and get the liquid oil up off the surface as quickly as possible so that it doesn’t have time to soak in. Once the liquid is gone, now it’s time to tackle the staining. The process of removing an oil stain from a tarmac driveway is identical irrespective of how long it’s been there. The only real difference is that long-standing stains may need repeated treatment to fully get rid of the mark. Here are some of the best options for removing oil stains from tarmac surfaces… Professional Oil Stain Remover There can be little doubt that the very best option of all is a professional oil stain remover. These powerful liquids actively break down the oil and render it non-flammable. They’re quite simply the most complete and effective answer to your problem. Fortunately, they’re as easy to use as they are potent. While you should always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines carefully, the following should act as a rough guide for most stain removers: Apply the liquid – Depending on the brand, some is applied neat while others need to be watered down. A solution that can be applied neat makes life a lot easier as it can be poured straight from the bottle onto the tarmac. Agitate the surface – Next you need to work the liquid in, so that it can get to work. This normally entails scrubbing the stain with a stiff brush or broom. Wait for the stain remover to work – Next you need to wait for the liquid to do its job. Generally you don’t want the liquid to dry out so pay particular attention in warm weather. Some of these oil stain removers are quite potent, so rather than heading inside to put your feet up, it’s generally better to stay closeby. That way you can ward off pets or visitors if necessary. Wash away – Lastly once the time specified on the bottle has elapsed you’ll want to thoroughly wash the area to sweep away the oil and cleaner residue, while watering it all down. A power washer is the most effective solution here, but a standard garden hose may also be used if you’re willing to give it a good brush alongside. And that’s it! Inspect the stain once the surface has dried to decide whether the tarmac needs a second treatment or not. As a final note, be sure to select an oil stain remover that has been specifically designed to work on tarmac. Tarmac can be a funny surface and the wrong cleaner can do more harm than good. Dish Soap Typically less effective, but obviously cheaper, is dish soap. Squirt your washing-up liquid onto the stain, add a little water to create a froth, and brush it vigorously with a stiff broom. Rinse away once done and retreat the area as necessary. Baking Soda Another option is to sprinkle baking soda over the stain, add a small amount of water, and as with the dish soap work it into the tarmac surface well. Once again, rinse off after a few minutes and inspect the surface once dry. Reseal the Surface Tarmac driveways should be resealed from time to time. Doing so freshens the surface and puts essential resins back into your driveway to extend its lifespan. This can be particularly beneficial after an oil spill, where the cleaning process is at risk of removing some of these resins. Sealing your tarmac driveway has another benefit too; it creates a new, attractive, uniform surface. In essence any residues from the oil spill will be hidden from view. Depending on the severity of the spill, and the time since you last sealed your tarmac driveway, now may therefore be a perfect opportunity to consider investing in a can on sealer. Conclusion As you can see, with a little bit of effort you can banish stains from your tarmac driveway. Indeed, if you opt for a professional stain remover then you’ll find it requires minimal effort. Furthermore, a single bottle goes an awfully long way. So keep the remainder safe and sound so you’re ready for the next inevitable oil spill. [...] Read more...

How to Care For Your Asphalt Driveway

Asphalt is an incredibly practical driveway material, and fortunately requires minimal maintenance. That said, there are some crucial steps to caring for your asphalt driveway. By carrying out these steps you’ll ensure that your driveway is safe, sound, looks great and has the longest lifespan possible. Here’s what all homeowners should know about how to care for an asphalt driveway… Regularly Inspect the Driveway for IssuesContents Arguably the most important step in caring for an asphalt driveway is simply keeping an eye on it. Any issues that appear are cheaper and easier to solve if spotted quickly. Conversely, any minor issues can soon turn into major problems if left for too long. The first step in caring for your asphalt driveway is therefore to take time to routinely inspect it. Look for any cracking, marks, loose surface, moss or weeds. Once you’ve thoroughly looked over the surface you’ll have a list of issues to sort out. Most of them will fall into the remaining categories on this list. Remove Dust and Dirt It’s a reality of life that debris will slowly build up on your driveway. Perhaps it’s been washed onto the surface by recent rain. Perhaps it’s fallen from nearby trees. Whatever the case, dirt and debris looks unsightly, and can make it easier for moss and weeds to take hold. Fortunately it’s pretty simple to remove. For example you could give your driveway a quick blast from your hosepipe. More serious homeowners opt to jet wash their driveway, though care should be taken on older asphalt driveways, where the pressure of the water can loosen the surface. The same goes for brushing the surface; a soft brush can be effective, but avoid overly still brushes that can damage the relatively soft surface of asphalt driveways. Remove Weeds and Moss Moss can be slippery in the winter months, increasing the chances of you slipping when walking across the surface. While weeds are less of a danger to pedestrians, they are unsightly, and left too long the roots of weeds can damage your asphalt driveway. Weeds on the surface may also be an indication of small cracks starting to appear. There are a number of ways to remove weeds from your driveway. Generally it is best to avoid traditional weedkillers, which may stain the driveway surface. Manually pulling out weeds – roots and all – is likely to be the most effective solution, yet takes time. Another option is to use a weed wand, which singes the plant, killing it off over the coming week or two, where it can be more easily removed. Moss is a rather different beast. Fortunately there are specialist moss-remover treatments that can be purchased. Not only do they remove the moss, but they won’t stain the surface. In many cases the moss killer is sprayed on, left to soak in for a few minutes, then rinsed off, moss and all. Remove Stains With Asphalt Cleaner Spilled oil, fuel, gardening chemicals and more can create unsightly stains on your asphalt driveway. Just as importantly, spilled chemicals can also shorten the lifespan of your driveway, by interacting with the fine chemical balance that exists within the material. Care should be taken when trying to remove such stains, as it is possible to do more harm than good. For most reliable results opt for a specialist asphalt cleaning liquid, which is guaranteed to be both effective and safe to use on asphalt. Fill Any Cracks Before Winter Cracks are probably your worst enemy as the owner of an asphalt driveway. There are numerous reasons why cracks can start to appear in asphalt, but the key lesson is that they’re bad news. In wintery weather, rain, snow and ice can make their way into these cracks. As the water freezes and thaws, it expands and constricts. When this happens deep down inside your asphalt driveway it can damage the integrity of the structure, loosening the material and causing further cracks to appear. Fortunately these cracks are quite simple to repair without needing professional help, especially if they’re small. Larger cracks may of course require professional help to resolve effectively. For smaller and newer cracks, however, asphalt crack filler can be purchased from many hardware stores. Follow the instructions carefully for an effective and long-lasting repair. Eliminate Pooling Water One common cause of cracks is pooling water. That is, puddles of rain sitting on the surface of your driveway. Left long enough, the water will slowly leach into the substratum. The end result is that cracks can once again start to appear. After heavy rain it’s worth double-checking the surface for any sizable puddles. Short-term these can be removed, either by brushing the water away or by applying cat litter. Longer term you may want to consider filling the compressed area to bring the level up to the rest of the driveway. Use Asphalt Sealer When the Color Changes As a material, asphalt includes a range of different resins. These resins help to bind the different parts of the asphalt together, resulting in a hard wearing yet flexible driveway material. Over time, however, these resins are lost. They can be damaged by UV light, washed away by heavy rainfall or deactivated by the inappropriate use of garden chemicals. It’s normally simple to tell when these resins have been lost as the asphalt surface changes from a pleasant uniform black color to a pale gray. It is at this point that sealing the surface can make sense. Not only does an asphalt sealer replace these lost resins, leading to a longer lifespan for your driveway, but it can also improve the visual effect. If you’ve suffered from stains, or had to repair cracks, then using a sealer can effectively hide away these past sins. As with other chemicals mentioned here, be sure to closely follow the instructions on the can. In general, however, you’ll want to reseal on a warm, dry day, where you can be certain no rain is forecast for the next day or two while the sealer fully dries. Conclusion Maintaining an asphalt driveway is simple and really takes minimal time. A quick check every few months and some preventative work before winter sets in is usually all that is necessary. With just a modicum of time invested you’ll extend the lifespan of your driveway, improve its appearance and ensure your driveway is safe for pedestrians and drivers alike. And if you need one more bit of inspiration remember that these relatively simple tasks are far more effective when carried out regularly. Real issues generally only appear on asphalt driveways that have been ignored for too long, when minor inconveniences turn into major (and expensive) headaches. [...] Read more...