After a Fresh Asphalt Paving Project – The Do’s and Don’ts

There is nothing quite like the sight of a freshly paved driveway, parking lot or road, and there’s a natural instinct to protect the smooth surface at all costs. Professionally installed asphalt is meant to stand up to vehicles driving on the surface, along with constant exposure to the weather. Yet, you can take some precautions now to preserve its beauty for years to come. Making sure to follow a few do’s and don’ts as your new asphalt paving project cures helps to prevent cracks that turn into major problems.

When Can You Drive On Your Fresh Asphalt Paving Project?

Parking lot paving companies do ask that you give your new pavement time to harden before you allow vehicles on the surface. Usually, the new asphalt pavement needs around 24 hours to cure enough to prevent most damage from normal weight cars and driving practices. But you’ll want to check with your asphalt contractor first, since certain conditions can cause the pavement to take longer to dry.

How Do You Care for a New Asphalt Paving Project During the First Year?

The total curing time for asphalt resurfacing is around a year. While you’ll be able to use your property long before this time is up, you’ll need to be extra careful to avoid damage. During the first year, an asphalt paving company will usually recommend encouraging drivers to slow down and avoid making drastic steering changes that could mar the surface. Ideally, heavy vehicles should be kept off the pavement. If that’s not possible, then avoid having heavy machinery and trucks parked in one place for too long. Moving them around helps to reduce the pressure on the surface.

When Do You Arrange for Sealcoating Services?

Do make sure to arrange for sealcoating once the paved surface reaches an appropriate level of curing. Since this can range from three months to a year, it is best to ask your paving contractor to check when your project is ready. Sealcoating helps to further prevent cracks and other forms of damage that impact how long your project lasts.

What Else Can You Do to Preserve Asphalt Pavement?

Chemical spills and automative fluid leaks can harm asphalt pavement both during the curing process and when it is fully dried. Making sure to clean up fluids using the appropriate strategies helps to prevent them from breaking the bonds between the asphalt materials. You’ll also want to keep weeds and plants from growing too close to the edges of the pavement where they can contribute to cracks. If you do happen to notice a blemish in the pavement, then arrange for a professional inspection and parking lot repair to stop it from growing.

Do Reach Out With Your Questions About a New Paving Project

With services that include asphalt paving, traffic signs, asphalt repair, speed bumps, concrete bumper blocks, asphalt patching, thermoplastic line striping and parking lot maintenance plans, you never have to worry about leaving an aspect of your project out. Fill out our online form, give our Treasure Coast asphalt paving company a call at 772-773-6172 or email us at [email protected] to get a free quote and learn more about what you need to do to get your paving project started.