The How, Why and When of Asphalt Driveway Care

Congratulations on your new asphalt driveway. With proper care your new driveway will give you many years of service.

Since the liquid asphalt in hot mix blacktop needs time to harden and cure, it is best to not drive on it immediately. You may walk on your driveway immediately. However we recommend that you keep vehicle traffic off it for three complete days and longer in hot weather. Because the asphalt is not fully cured your new driveway will be susceptible to chemicals and concentrated loadings.
Therefore avoid:

Turning your wheels while on the blacktop. If possible always try to travel in a straight path. Turning your wheels while stopped is especially hard on the surface and is not covered under any warranty.
Parking heavy objects for extended times. If you must park a camper on the drive for instance, place a piece of plywood on the drive first, to distribute the load over a larger area.
Lawn furniture, high heels, jack stands, kick stands and car ramps will all sink into the surface and should be avoided.
Heavy vehicles of all types should be avoided. Cement trucks, and garbage trucks are most frequent offenders.
Avoid parking in exactly the same spot each time at least for the first six months. Move around a little when you park and you won't notice any depressions.
Chemicals of all types should be avoided. Gasoline, diesel fuel, solvents and harsh cleaners will dissolve the asphalt.
Remember that your driveway is softer in warm weather and this is the time to be more cautious.

Driveway Sealing

Usually your new driveway can go from three to five years before it should be sealed. Cracks may develop the first winter and these should be handled using a crack filler and not a sealer. Wait until the surface is light gray in color before sealing for the first time. This will give you the most economical surface in the long run.

Plan on sealing every two years once you have started.

This list is not intended to be all inclusive. Regional situations and conditions may vary. Therefore always consult your local contractor.

With a little care your new driveway should give years of excellent service.

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