Getting a new asphalt driveway will not only increase your home value but will also help improve your property’s aesthetic. Asphalt looks sharp, and a quality asphalt job will have your driveway looking great for years to come. However, taking care of your new asphalt driveway is critical to its longevity. The first few months of your new driveway will determine how it looks and deteriorates in the coming seasons. Here are some quick tips for taking care of your new asphalt driveway to help protect your investment!
The First 14 Days are Crucial to the Health of Your Driveway
Until asphalt fully hardens and sets, it is easily damaged and deformed. The first 14 days are the most crucial for taking care of your new asphalt driveway. This period of time is when your new asset is most vulnerable.
After your new asphalt driveway has been poured, do not drive on it for at least 3-5 days. Wait a week if possible. After the first week has passed, you may begin parking on your driveway for short periods of time, but avoid doing so with large vehicles, and never park on your driveway during the hottest part of the day.
While the asphalt may seem hard upon touching it, it may still be pliable, especially in the heat. Heavy vehicles may cause dips in the driveway where the wheels rest.
Driveways Take over 100 Days to Fully Cure
After the initial 2-week period is over, you can breathe a sigh of relief, but that doesn’t mean your work is done. Since asphalt is an oil-based substance, it takes a long time to fully cure, especially in the summertime.
Given this, there are special precautions you should take during the first hot season after getting your new driveway. Specifically:
- Avoid parking on your driveway during the hottest part of the day.
- Never turn your wheels while on the driveway. Try to back straight out and pull straight in.
- Never use the kickstand on your motorcycle, bicycle, boat jack, or any other sharp objects. This will gouge the asphalt and leave marks.
- When possible, place plywood under your vehicle to help disperse its weight. This will reduce the chance of dips in your driveway.
- Never allow large vehicles or objects such as garbage trucks and roll-away dumpsters or PODS to sit in your driveway.
Heat is necessary for your driveway to fully cure. This means that you can’t shortcut your way around the process by installing your new driveway in the fall. While the curing process will stop during the cool seasons, it will resume once the weather turns warm.
Ongoing Driveway Maintenance
After the initial curing process is over, you’ll still need to work to maintain your asphalt driveway. Thankfully, this is the easy part.
Avoid spilling oils or gasoline on your driveway. This will dissolve the surface and cause cracks to form. Always take precautions when changing your oil and set down coverings to protect your driveway. When spills occur, be certain to clean your driveway properly.
Be diligent in filling cracks quickly. This will prevent them from spreading and worsening over time. One of the most vulnerable parts of your driveway is its edges. Consider building up the soil around your driveway to help support the sides and increase water drainage.
If you have questions about taking care of your new asphalt driveway, reach out to one of our experts at Sipes Asphalt and Concrete. Our qualified team of professionals can help determine what steps you need to take to protect your investment and keep your driveway looking new for years to come!
How Can We Serve You?
The professional paving contractors at Sipes Asphalt & Concrete know the ideal conditions for pouring concrete or asphalt. Whether it’s a new driveway, parking lot, or crack sealing, we’ve got you covered. Call Sipes for your paving estimate and the best paving solutions in the Indianapolis area.
