Asphalt driveways are popular residential options that can remain attractive and durable for 12 to 20 years. However, your surface won't even make it through the installation if it's not done correctly. Help prevent premature wear and replacements by following these simple steps.

Do:

Wait to park.

Refrain from parking on your new driveway for at least 24 hours, and wait even longer if the asphalt was poured in hot weather. It takes up to 12 months for the material to fully cure, so also avoid parking in the same spots every day to prevent depressions that can cause vehicle wheel misalignments and create tripping hazards.

Take care of the edges.

Work with sod or sifted topsoil when you're landscaping around the edges of your driveway, as regular soil can trigger chemical reactions that cause the material to flake. While this is a normal occurrence that won't affect the asphalt's structural stability, it creates cosmetic issues. Also, be sure to avoid driving along the edges of your driveway to keep it from crumbling.

Don’t:

Drive aggressively or create indentations.

Avoid quick turns and other fast driving maneuvers that could leave tire indentations and other marks and scars. Take it slow and don't move your steering wheel unless it's necessary, especially during the 24-month curing period.

Protect your investment further by only walking on it in flat shoes instead of heeled footwear that could leave holes and dents. Finally, keep furniture and other sharp or heavy objects off the asphalt surface to prevent damage.

Forget about sealcoating.

Schedule sealcoating services every three to five years, depending on your climate and how much traffic the driveway receives. This will protect the asphalt from UV rays that cause it to fade break down, as well as snow, rain, and ice that seep into the porous material, causing structural damage. Sealcoating also shields the paving from motor oil, gasoline, and other chemicals that could destroy it.

When you need quality asphalt, or other paving and landscaping materials such as crushed stone, gravel, and ready-mix concrete, contact The Dolomite Group in Rochester, NY. This wholesale distributor has served construction companies and contractors throughout the area since 1920. Call (585) 381-7010 today to place an order, or learn more about their affordable products online.