Sealing asphalt keeps it protected from weather damage, heavy traffic and other external threats. However, it’s important to make sure that asphalt pavement is ready for sealing to ensure this process is as effective and worthwhile as possible. Following some helpful advice to make sure asphalt is cured properly can make a huge difference when it comes to the effectiveness of asphalt sealing. Keep reading for some helpful tips for curing asphalt in Saratoga Springs, NY.
How long does asphalt have to cure for before sealing?
The timeline for asphalt curing can vary significantly depending on a number of factors. The type of asphalt, weather conditions, the type of installation equipment used and the specifics of the project can all affect how long it takes for asphalt to cure. However, asphalt generally takes between three and six months to cure completely. In addition, it takes about seven days for asphalt to dry and harden to the point where it can be driven on by heavy machinery.
Usually, it’s recommended that asphalt be sealed after it has a chance to fully cure—usually about three to six months after it’s installed, but sometimes up to a year later. In the meantime, it’s a good idea to take some steps to make sure your asphalt cures properly so it’s ready for sealing.
Tips for curing asphalt in Saratoga Springs, NY
Here are some of the best tips for curing asphalt:
- Distribute weight on your pavement: Until asphalt cures fully, it’s important to avoid putting too much pressure on specific areas of the pavement. If you plan on parking vehicles on the asphalt, try to evenly distribute the weight and avoid parking in the same spot every day. This will prevent areas from becoming damaged while the asphalt is curing for the first several months.
- Keep spills to a minimum: Fluid leaks from automobiles can cause asphalt to deteriorate. Make sure to keep spills to a minimum by avoiding performing any maintenance or fluid top-offs while cars are parked on the asphalt. If fluids do spill onto the pavement, it’s important to hose the spill off as soon as possible.
- Give plenty of time for asphalt to dry: It’s best to wait at least three days after asphalt is installed before allowing cars to drive or park on the asphalt. It’s usually safe to walk around on asphalt shortly after it’s installed, but driving on asphalt too soon after installation can cause extensive damage to pavement that requires costly repairs.
Schedule pavement installation
Make sure your driveway, private road or parking lot is kept in the best condition possible with help from the experienced asphalt professionals at Asphalt Industries, LLC. In addition to our asphalt paving services, we also offer excavation and drainage services to address a wide variety of needs for property owners in Saratoga Springs, NY. Give us a call today to find out more about the services we provide and to get started with a consultation and quote for your project.