Do’s and Don’ts After an Asphalt Paving Project

Having a new asphalt pavement installed is an investment most people make only a few times in their life, so proper pavement care immediately after installment is not common knowledge. 

If you just had your parking lot or driveway paved, you may be wondering what the next steps are post-paving and how to maintain the newly paved surface. Follow these do's and don'ts to ensure the longevity of your quality asphalt pavement!

Do the Following After an Asphalt Paving Project

1. Do wait at least 24 hours before driving on the new surface. Wait longer during hot weather. The asphalt mixes contain a high quantity of oil to help ensure a longer-lasting formula. The cure time, or the time it takes for a material to harden, is slightly longer for this product.
2. During the first few months, do make sure the vehicle’s wheels are rolling before turning the steering wheel. After driving at highway speeds, always park the car in a straight line after coming to a slow stop. Small things like this will help extend the life of your asphalt pavement for years to come. 
3. Do use a ‘sifted’ topsoil and seed, if sod isn’t used, for landscaping alongside your new asphalt. Some soils react with the asphalt and may cause minor flaking at the bevel edge. This is a normal reaction and is non-structural.
4. Do upkeep and preventive maintenance as the years go on. Simple cleaning and small maintenance through the years will greatly prolong the life of your blacktop and help you get the most out of your investment. Check out these top 3 asphalt preventive maintenance tips that will help you save money over time! Or download our free Asphalt Pavement Protection Plan to get tips and tricks to prolong the life of your asphalt.

Don't Do the Following After an Asphalt Paving Project

1. Don’t park in the exact same spot every time or you may leave impressions, or create low spots in the asphalt. For vehicles or trailers that are parked and not moved for several days at a time, place a piece of plywood under the tongue. Place a pad under the wheels as well if the vehicle or trailer will stay in one place for a very long time. Lawn furniture can also ‘dent’ the surface, so consider the above suggestions to protect your asphalt surface.
2. Don't sealcoat the new asphalt for at least one year. Various products and additives used by other outside seal-coaters can cause cracking or other conditions. Have your driveway or parking lot sealcoated every 2-3 years, with any cracks being filled and repaired every year.

Looking for more information on how to prolong the life of your asphalt pavement? Download our free pavement protection plan to extend pavement life and increase curb appeal.

In this plan will talk you through: