A Guide to Using Asphalt Stickers for Driveways and Lots

Understanding Asphalt Stickers

Asphalt stickers have become increasingly popular for outdoor use and decoration. Often made with strong adhesive backing, these stickers are designed to adhere to rough surfaces like asphalt driveways, walkways, and parking lots. When choosing asphalt stickers, it's important to understand the different types available and how to properly apply them for maximum durability.

Types of Asphalt Stickers

There are a few main categories of asphalt stickers:

• Vinyl - Vinyl is the most popular material for asphalt stickers. The thick, flexible vinyl material is waterproof and features a strong adhesive backing. Vinyl asphalt stickers come in a wide range of colors and designs.
• Reflective - Reflective asphalt stickers contain glass beads or prismatic technology that reflect light. They are great for increasing visibility and safety on driveways and parking lots at night.
• Anti-Slip - Anti-slip asphalt stickers have a coarse, grippy texture to help prevent slips and falls. They are commonly used on walkways near pools or spas.

Asphalt Sticker Adhesives

The key to getting asphalt stickers to properly adhere and last through outdoor conditions lies in the adhesive. There are a few types of adhesives used:

• Acrylic - Acrylic adhesive is waterproof and bonds well to rough, uneven surfaces like asphalt. It offers good longevity but may be damaged if the sticker is forcefully removed.
• Solvent - Solvent-based adhesive contains volatile compounds that allow it to better penetrate into asphalt. It forms an incredibly strong, permanent bond.
• Hot Melt - Hot melt adhesive uses heat to create a thick, sticky adhesive that secures stickers tightly to surfaces.

Applying Asphalt Stickers

To get the maximum durability out of asphalt stickers, proper application technique is crucial:

1. Clean the surface thoroughly to remove any dirt, dust, oil or debris that could impede adhesion.
2. Ensure the asphalt surface is completely dry before application.
3. When positioning the sticker, carefully press down on the corners first to better align the sticker before fully adhering it.
4. Use an applicator tool or roller to firmly apply pressure across the entire sticker surface, pushing out any air bubbles.

Asphalt Sticker Duration

If properly applied, asphalt sticker duration varies based on the adhesive type:

• Acrylic adhesive stickers typically last 1-5 years
• Solvent-based stickers are extremely permanent, lasting 5-10 years
• Hot melt stickers have a shorter life span of around 1-3 years

Additionally, vertical stickers on walls and poles last longer than horizontal ground stickers that experience more direct foot traffic and sun exposure.

Cleaning Asphalt Stickers

Over time, dirt, dust and other debris can accumulate on top of asphalt stickers, making them appear worn and dingy while also preventing them from effectively reflecting light. Luckily, keeping them looking fresh is simple:

1. Use a stiff bristle broom or brush to gently sweep the sticker surface and dislodge any loose particulate.
2. Mix warm water and a small amount of mild dish soap or detergent, then use a soft bristle brush to gently scrub the wetted sticker.
3. Completely rinse off all soap residue with clean water.
4. Allow the sticker to fully air dry before assessing if additional cleaning is needed for heavily soiled stickers.

Avoid using solvents or citrus cleaners as they can weaken the sticker adhesive. Pressure washing is also not recommended for asphalt stickers.

Asphalt Sticker Removal

Asphalt sticker removal difficulty depends greatly on the adhesive used. Solvent-based stickers are designed to permanently adhere to asphalt. Other types like acrylic and hot melt stickers can be removed from asphalt if done carefully.

Removing Acrylic and Hot Melt Stickers

To remove acrylic and hot melt asphalt stickers:

1. Heat the sticker using a heat gun or hair dryer to soften the adhesive.
2. Slowly peel up one corner and gently pull back the sticker at a 90° angle.
3. Warm any adhesive residue left behind and scrape clean with a plastic putty knife.
4. Wipe the area with a rag and mineral spirits to remove final sticky residue.

Trying to forcefully rip the stickers off could damage the asphalt underneath. For large vinyl stickers, scoring the surface with a utility knife first can make removal easier.

Removing Solvent Stickers

There is no reliable, non-destructive method for removing solvent asphalt stickers. Attempting removal will likely ruin or discolor the sticker and damage the asphalt. It's best to let old, worn solvent stickers gradually wear away rather than try to pull them off if replacement isn't possible.

With the right sticker type and application method, asphalt stickers can serve as long-lasting driveway, walkway, or parking lot decor. Just take care when cleaning or removing temporary asphalt stickers to prevent harming the underlying surface.

FAQs

Can asphalt stickers be used on concrete instead?

While asphalt and concrete are both porous surfaces, the chemical makeup differs between the materials. Asphalt stickers are formulated with adhesives specifically engineered to bond with asphalt. Using them on concrete often results in poor, short-lived adhesion.

Do asphalt stickers come in different shapes and sizes?

Yes, while rectangular strips and large solid sheets are common, many asphalt sticker manufacturers offer custom die-cut shapes and sizing. This allows for more unique decor and branding opportunities.

Is there an easy way to create a pattern with multiple asphalt stickers?

Aligning multiple stickers in an organized layout can be tricky. Using chalk lines as a guide to space out placement in advance helps create accurate, professional multi-sticker arrangements.

Can I coat over asphalt stickers with sealant or paint?

You should never cover installed asphalt stickers with any protective coating or paint. This will prevent natural airflow and light exposure which could cause the vinyl sticker underneath to overheat, warp, and lose adhesion.

How long until I can walk or drive on newly applied asphalt stickers?

Leave 72 hours for the adhesive to fully cure and form a maximum strength bond before allowing any foot traffic or vehicles on newly placed asphalt stickers.