All told, a new asphalt driveway installation is a remarkably easy process for most homeowners. At most, the work only takes a couple days, and most of the time it can be done in a single day. That said, like any home renovation project, it’s still a major undertaking that deserves thought and care.
If you’re thinking about a new asphalt driveway installation, we’ve got some general tips and information to keep in mind. Remember these tips, and you’ll have a much easier time completing your new asphalt installation!
4 Things To Remember Before Getting A New Asphalt Driveway
1. Asphalt can only be laid while it’s warm.
Asphalt requires relatively warm temperatures to set correctly, especially overnight. Spring and Summer are the best times to lay asphalt. Laying asphalt in winter is impossible in most areas that experience sub-freezing temperatures; the asphalt won’t set correctly and will be cracked from the start.
2. A new asphalt pour may look “unfinished.”
When your brand-new driveway is completed, you may be able to see some marks on the surface, such as from rollers or where parts of the asphalt were hand-smoothed. This is totally normal, and these imperfections will fade over a month or two as your new driveway sees use until it’s left with a uniform surface.
3. Stay off the driveway for 24-48 hours.
There’s very little you need to do when your new asphalt driveway is laid, but it’s important to stay off it for at least 24 hours until it sets. In extremely hot areas, with temperatures above 90 degrees Fahrenheit, it may be necessary to wait two days for it to fully set.
4. Always get multiple estimates.
A new asphalt driveway installation is relatively cheap and easy, but don't go with the first estimate you see. Talk to 2-4 different firms, then pick the asphalt contractor offering the best services, not necessarily the one with the cheapest rates.
Make sure you cover all these bases and you'll be on your way to have a successful asphalt driveway installation. Be sure to contact Wolf Paving for your free estimate and to answer any of your asphalt paving questions.
