Caring for your new asphalt

Asphalt remains semi-flexible, which is what makes it a superior paving product in our climate. This flexibility means the surface can soften and can develop marks or indentations, especially when new.

Here are seven ways to care for your paved surface.

1. 01

   Wait before driving or parking

   Do not drive or park on the paved surface for at least 5–7 days during summer months. This depends on the weather; in cooler seasons, less time is needed for the asphalt to cool and harden.

   Tire marks and depressions may result from parking on asphalt that has re-softened due to hot weather, parking on or near the edge, and not staggering where you park. Heat waves may soften asphalt even years after paving is complete. The newer the asphalt is, the more it will heat up in the summer sun and soften.

2. 02

   Keep moving while you steer

   Do not dry steer (turn the wheels while sitting still); ensure the vehicle is moving when steering.

3. 03

   Keep oil and gas off the surface

   Do not allow gas and oil to get on paved surfaces. An asphalt sealer may be used to decrease damage from oil products.

4. 04

   Spread concentrated loads

   Do not put pointed objects on the new asphalt surface. They concentrate weight onto a small area of the paved surface and can leave indentations. Objects such as ladders, lawn chairs, tire chains, kickstands and even narrow-heeled shoes can sink in if the asphalt is hot. Use a board to spread the load when safe to do so.

5. 05

   Wait before sealing

   Do not use sealer for the first year. Please call us for an estimate or more specific information before sealing. Your best DIY option is a sealer type called asphalt emulsion.

6. 06

   Care for the edges

   Keep the sides edged to help prevent weeds from spreading into the asphalt. If any should appear, treat with a weed-killer solution (vinegar, dish soap and salt).

   Edging the sides is not strictly required, and in some cases it may be beneficial to backfill over the tamped edge of the asphalt for greater stability. There is no reason the tamped edge cannot be covered over.

7. 07

   Avoid loads the surface was not designed for

   Avoid very heavy vehicles or equipment driving on your asphalt unless it was specifically designed for heavy use, as they may cause damage. Most driveways are engineered to support regular vehicles and light trucks on a regular basis.

Questions about your asphalt?

Contact our team for more specific care information or before sealing your surface.

Contact Us(519) 893-2614

Keep reading: Basic Maintenance · Asphalt Paving · Base Preparation