Can roof cleaning solvent take the sealants off my driveway?

Answer 1

First, this is an excellent article on the differences between caulks and sealants and what is used on roofing seams. Second, as to your question about whether a roof-cleaning solvent can weaken or remove driveway sealants depends on whether the roof had a professional grade sealant used versus a cheaper caulk. In the pre- 1950s-1960s, sealings on many roofs on small homes (especially of poorer families) and driveway seams just used ordinary tar, like what was used on roads across seams or on edges of pothole repairs. I still remember the tar stench from working with my dad on roofs and driveways, carefully heating a small bucket of tar in a metal bucket, and evenly applying it on seams beginning from the furthest point away and working toward the outside-most point . I'm not not sure if the sealants today are more modernly rubberized or are simply still straight tar. However, the simplest way to test a roof sealant solvent-remover on a driveway seam is to pick an out of the way seam, go to its edge, and apply the solvent to 1/2-inch of the seam. OR, call a reputable construction company to give you a driveway and roofing estimate for sealings only, and while they are there, ask LOTS of questions to educate yourself. One caution about this unknown solvent: make sure it does not etch or deteriorate brick or stone if those are in/alongside your driveway.

Answer 2

Is your driveway made of the same material as your roof. If so, then it possibly can. You have NOT said what either roof or drive is surfaced with and that is essential information.