Asphalt Maintenance
Appearance
The new asphalt surface may appear different in certain areas because of application conditions and the composition of the asphalt. In areas where handwork is required, the asphalt may look different than if it was spread by a paving machine. Asphalt comes in various sizes of rock, sand, and oil, which can cause a diverse texture to the surface.
Maintenance of New Driveway
It is important to attend to cracks in the driveway to prevent moisture damage. Cracks can often occur when the asphalt surface is exposed to frost. Expansion cracks are also possible because of ground movement. These cracks can be addressed by a pourable crack filler attainable at hardware stores or by a hot crack filler from a sealcoat company. Some smaller cracks are often closed with the arrival of hot weather and are not of great concern.
Sealcoating
If considering a seal coat, it is not recommended to do so until the asphalt has properly cured. The curing process can take up to two years.
When to Drive on Your New Driveway
After the installation is complete, wait at least 5 days to drive on it and 10 days before parking on it. This will help prevent surface depressions and tire marks on your new driveway.
Avoid the Edges of Your Driveway
The edges are the weakest part of the new asphalt because of the lack of support. We advise keeping away from driving and parking on the outer edges of the driveway to help prevent cracks and indentations. It is also recommended to build up the sides of the asphalt surface to help support the edges.
Avoiding Leaks and Spills
Try not to spill/be cognizant of these kinds of leaks: gasoline, oil, anti-freeze, transmission fluids, etc. These types of spills or leaks will damage the surface of your asphalt. If one of these substances accidentally contacts the new asphalt surface, it is recommended to tend to it immediately by spreading out sand, saw dust, or some sort of oil absorbing product to help soak up the spillage.
Heavy Vehicles
Heavy vehicles are also likely to create depressions in a new driveway. Avoid parking boats, RVs, trailers, etc. on the new asphalt surface for extended periods of time. If you must, place a piece of plywood under the tongue jack and tires to help displace the weight. It is also advised to not permit access of other heavy vehicles or things (tree trimming trucks, concrete trucks, dumpster rentals etc.) on your new asphalt driveway.
Tire Marks and Indentations
Avoid turning the steering wheel of your vehicle on the new asphalt surface, especially if the vehicle is not moving and on a hot day. Be cautious of bicycle and motorcycle kickstands or anything that can cause a concentrated amount of force to the new surface. These things can cause a hole or indentation in your asphalt. Tire marks and indentations are far more likely on a new asphalt surface or on a hot day.
Steer Clear of Stands and Jacks
It is important to evade stands (boat stands, jack stands, trailer stands, etc.) and car jacks on your new driveway. If unavoidable, it is recommended to put a piece of plywood under the stand or jack to help displace the weight. This will help prevent markings or depressions on the new surface.
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