It goes without saying that an asphalt paving project is an investment. Not everyone makes this investment in their lifetime, and those that do only comes across it a few times at most. So, people are unaware of the “dos and don’ts” after an asphalt paving project. Here are a few things you can do to ensure longevity after your asphalt paving is finished.
Do
Let It Settle
Do wait at least 24 hours before driving on the new asphalt surface. If the weather is hot, you may want to wait even longer. This allows the high content of oil in the asphalt mixture to fully cure, or harden into a smooth, durable surface.
Drive Carefully On Your New Asphalt
Do make sure that your vehicle’s wheels are rolling before turning your steering wheel. Do this at least for the first several months. Also, after driving at high speeds where your tires have had time to get significantly warmed up, be sure to come to a slow stop and park with your tires straight. The goal with these tips is to prevent any undue friction from your tires digging into the pavement and potentially causing divots or puckering prematurely.
Maintenance Your Asphalt
Do make sure to follow up with regular upkeep and maintenance as needed over the life of your pavement. Some simple, periodic cleaning and annual maintenance will enhance the durability of your pavement and prolong its lifespan.
Don’t
Move Too Quick To Sealcoat
Don’t sealcoat the surface for at least one year after installation. Use a reputable company for sealcoating once every 2-3 years. This ensures that the chemicals used in the sealcoating do not have additives that actually contribute to cracking and wearing of your asphalt. Have any cracks or holes patched or filled every year.
Get Stuck In A (Literal) Rut
Don’t park in the same place every day. In the same way that your carpet gets worn down in areas of high traffic, so to your pavement can get depressions or low spots if driven in the same place every day. For vehicles that will be parked in one place and not moved for several days at a time, place a pad underneath the wheels to protect the asphalt surface.
Contact Us
If you are in the market for a reputable paving company, look no further than Hicks APC. We are here for you from paving, to sealcoating, and all your asphalt maintenance needs.
