If you’ve recently had an asphalt driveway or road installed on your property, you know how pristine and inviting that fresh black pavement looks. Unfortunately, without the proper care, your asphalt will wear out much faster than it needs to, costing you in maintenance and replacement. Caddo Construction is the paving expert in Anchorage, AK, and recommends the following five tips to preserve your asphalt from damage.

How to Extend the Life of Asphalt

1. Don’t Park on the Pavement During the Curing Process

For the first few weeks after new asphalt is laid, you should drive on it as little as possible—and not at all in the first three to five days. After two weeks, you can use the drive carefully, but it will be several months before it is completely cured. Avoid setting heavy objects on your drive during this time or parking on it long term.

2. Clean Up Oil Spills

Because the materials in asphalt are oil based, chemical spills can damage the surface. Avoid spills as much as possible, and, if an accident does happen, clean it up with absorbent materials like cat litter or baking soda.

3. Seal Your Surface

A quality seal coating, applied every few years, will help preserve the oil in the asphalt, keeping it flexible and reducing the risk of cracking. Hire a paving contractor to make sure the sealant is applied thoroughly and professionally.

4. Fill Cracks Promptly

Tree roots, water seepage, and shifting earth can all cause your asphalt to crack. To keep the pavement strong and reduce the risk of those cracks spreading, you should repair them promptly. 

5. Protect Your Edges

Unless they are reinforced, the edges of your driveway will be the weakest part. You can help reinforce your pavement by building up the earth around it to about an inch below the road surface.

With care, your asphalt driveway will stay smooth and strong for years to come. If you have questions about caring for asphalt or need repairs or new installation, call Caddo Construction at (907) 333-6160, or visit them online.