Are you going to pave your driveway with asphalt soon? Asphalt is a durable and cost-effective option for driveways, roads, parking lots, and many other surfaces. In fact, according to the National Asphalt Pavement Association, there are 18 billion tons of asphalt on American roads. Your new asphalt driveway will look great, but it’s important to know what steps to take after the paving to ensure that the asphalt finishes correctly. Here are some key steps you should take after working with a driveway paver.
Wait for the Asphalt to Cool and Cure
As soon as the paving is finished, you may want to use it right away. It’s important to resist this temptation. The asphalt needs time to cool and cure properly, so it’s best to wait for at least 24 to 48 hours before using the driveway. If you drive or park on the driveway too soon, you risk damaging the asphalt and reducing its lifespan.
Keep the Driveway Free of Debris
It’s important to keep the driveway free of debris after it has been paved. This includes leaves, twigs, and dirt. These can cause damage to the surface of the asphalt, making it more susceptible to cracking and potholes. In order to avoid damage on the surface, sweep the driveway regularly and rake leaves and other debris away from the surface. Keep pets off the surface. Also, make sure your kids know not to use the driveway for a couple of days. Simple activities like riding a bike or dribbling a basketball could damage the asphalt.
Avoid Spilling Oil or Other Fluids on the Driveway.
Asphalt is porous and can be easily damaged by oil or other fluids. Therefore, it’s important to avoid spilling any fluids on the driveway. If you have canisters of fluids in your garage, like gasoline, oil, or even windshield fluid, you may want to move them to another location to eliminate any risk of a spill. If a spill does occur, clean it up as soon as possible using an oil-absorbent material, such as kitty litter, and dispose of it properly.
Don’t Power Wash the Driveway
While it may be tempting to power wash the driveway to keep it looking clean, it’s important to avoid doing so. Power washing can cause damage to the surface of the asphalt, causing it to degrade more quickly. Instead of power washing, use a gentle spray from a garden hose or a mild cleaning solution to remove dirt and debris from the surface.
Sealcoat the Driveway
Sealing your driveway with a sealcoat is an effective way to extend the life of the asphalt. A sealcoat is a protective layer that is applied to the surface of the asphalt and helps to seal out water and other elements that can cause damage. It’s recommended to sealcoat the driveway every two to three years to ensure that the driveway stays in good condition. If you work with a driveway paver, they should complete this step for you.
Monitor the Weather
After the paving is finished, it’s important to monitor the weather. Asphalt is susceptible to damage from extreme temperatures, both hot and cold. If extreme weather is in the forecast, it’s best to avoid using the driveway until the weather has passed. Eventually, your driveway will be durable in extreme weather, but it won’t be in the days right after your driveway is paved. Additionally, keep an eye on the forecast for heavy rain or snow, as water can cause damage to the asphalt if it seeps into the surface.
Call for Repairs if Necessary
Even with proper care, it’s possible that your driveway may develop cracks or potholes over time. If you notice any damage, it’s important to call your paver for repairs as soon as possible. Ignoring small issues can lead to bigger problems down the road and end up costing you more in the long run. Take care of your new driveway by maintaining it and having it fixed as soon as you notice problems.
Ready for your new driveway? Contact Piedmont Paving today to schedule a consultation. Our pavers can help you find the right paving solution for your needs and budget. Let’s connect soon and discuss your new driveway.
