Depending on the climate and time of year in which your driveway is laid, it could take up to an entire year for your driveway to cure fully, making the maintenance and care of your driveway in the period following the paving very important. Here are a few tips to help you avoid permanent damage to your new asphalt paving in Saratoga Springs, NY.
Driveway curing
When asphalt is initially poured, it is made with excess oils that hold the material together. Because the heat of the sun naturally triggers an oxidation process when its rays hit the asphalt, this additional oil is necessary to help keep your driveway from drying out too much while it is curing. It also serves as the glue that binds the asphalt together before the seal coating process takes place. However, this excess oil does make your driveway susceptible to tears and dips, especially in the first 30 days after the asphalt has been laid.
Protect your investment
To avoid causing any permanent damage to your new driveway, here are a few tips to keep in mind in the months immediately following your new paving.
- It is a good idea to avoid doing any car maintenance on your new driveway to help prevent damage, as tools such as wrenches or car jacks can create divots and holes to appear in your driveway while it is still curing. Additionally, spilling oils or other fluids while performing car maintenance on the new pavement can create problems as well.
- Although it will be safe to park on your driveway about three days after the asphalt has been laid, it is a good idea to try to park in a different spot each time. This will help prevent any denting due to your new driveway having to sustain the weight of a heavy car in the same spot every day.
- In addition to varying your parking spots, it is also a good idea to avoid parking heavier vehicles such as RVs on your driveway, and instead try to find a long-term storage alternative.
- While it will be ok to walk on your driveway 24 hours after it has been paved, you should still keep shoes with sharp ends, such as high heels or football and soccer cleats, off of the asphalt until it has time to cure properly.
While new asphalt paving is beneficial and can increase your property value, it is necessary to make sure that your driveway is maintained properly to ensure longevity. For help making sure you are properly caring for your driveway in the six months to a year that it takes to cure, make sure you give us a call at Asphalt Industries. With nearly 20 years of experience and knowledge of driveway curing, we are the go-to asphalt paving contractors in Saratoga Springs, NY to help ensure your driveway investment lasts well into the future. If you need professional, reliable assistance, make sure you give us a call today.