You may think that asphalt is so durable that it’s almost indestructible. While it’s true that asphalt is remarkably strong, it can be damaged – especially right after it is installed. If you’ve just had a new asphalt surface poured, whether it’s a driveway in front of your house or a parking lot adjacent to your business, it’s important to keep in mind some tips to properly care for your newly poured surface. What follows are some “dos” and “don’ts” for fresh asphalt.
New asphalt pavement is a significant investment for home and business owners alike. So no matter how large or small your new pavement may be, it’s important to take whatever steps are necessary to protect the asphalt from becoming damaged or compromised in any way for the first few months after it is installed. To find out more about how to properly care for and protect your new asphalt surface, contact a local reputable paving contractor today and schedule an appointment.
The “Dos”
- Wait before you drive on the new pavement. And the warmer the weather, the longer you should wait. New asphalt needs to set for a minimum of 24 hours before being used.
- For the first several months after your asphalt is installed, only turn the wheels of a vehicle that’s moving on the surface. Try to avoid turning the wheels of a vehicle that is just sitting on the pavement. This can cause the wheels to gouge the surface of the asphalt.
- Keep the asphalt clean and free of debris. You should do this for the lifespan of the pavement. And ask your paving contractor whether and when to have the surface sealcoated to protect it from the elements. In most cases, you won’t need to sealcoat for at least one year after the asphalt is installed.
The “Don’ts”
- Try to avoid using any types of additives on the surface. In fact, only your paving contractor should decide what substances – if any – to use on your new asphalt.
- If possible, try not to park in the same spot repeatedly. This can leave impressions and low spots in fresh asphalt.
- Try to avoid leaving heavy traffic parked on the pavement for any length of time. This includes large trucks, trailers, etc.
- Generally speaking, treat your asphalt with a little TLC for the first few month after it is installed. Remember that although asphalt is an incredibly strong and durable pavement, it can be damaged until it has been given time to thoroughly cure.
New asphalt pavement is a significant investment for home and business owners alike. So no matter how large or small your new pavement may be, it’s important to take whatever steps are necessary to protect the asphalt from becoming damaged or compromised in any way for the first few months after it is installed. To find out more about how to properly care for and protect your new asphalt surface, contact a local reputable paving contractor today and schedule an appointment.
