Paving your driveway with asphalt is an excellent investment. The material is affordable to install, easy to maintain, and durable. However, for the structure to last many years, you have to take care of it properly. Here are several do’s and don’ts to follow after an asphalt driveway installation.

Do:

Wait at least 48 hours before driving on it.

Asphalt contains oils and needs time to cure after installation. It’s best to wait at least 48 hours before driving on your new driveway, as tires can damage the paving material. To prevent visitors from parking on the newly placed structure, create a barrier with caution tape around it.

Clean up chemical spills.

If leaky fluids and motor oils get on your asphalt driveway, they can break down the material and weaken its structural integrity. That is why it’s important to clean these spills up with water and dish soap as soon as possible.

Don’t:

Don’t park in the same spot.

Parking your vehicle in the same spot on your driveway every day can leave impressions on the surface. Try to park in a different spot every day. If you have to leave your vehicle parked in the same spot for an extended period, put plywood underneath the wheels to protect the asphalt.

Seal it too soon.

While sealing benefits the material, it shouldn’t be done prematurely. Sealing the surface too soon can make it more susceptible to cracks and holes. Professionals recommend waiting for the material to cure, which typically takes about a year, and sealing it immediately after. 

If you want a new asphalt driveway for your property, turn to the professionals at Decca Paving, Inc. in Rochester, NY. The asphalt contractor has been providing reliable residential and commercial paving services since 2001. The company’s certified and licensed workers use state-of-the-art equipment for all their paving projects and always finish each job in a timely manner. For more information about their paving services, call (585) 279-0948 or visit their website.