The time has come for your brand new asphalt pavement to be installed. At Cassidy Paving we know brand new asphalt is an investment in your property, so we want to tell you how to care for it appropriately. Angie’s List has found that on average it costs around $5,000 to haul away an old driveway and replace it with a new one. There are specific do’s and don’t for extending the lifespan of your new driveway, parking lot, or industrial pavement; however, follow these recommendations and you’ll lessen the instance of untimely deterioration.
How to Care for Your Brand New Asphalt:
- Have a maintenance plan. Although the skill of your asphalt contractor will determine how well your paving holds up over time, you can’t forget to schedule your maintenance. Having a maintenance plan in place can make all the difference in well-functioning driveways and lots. According to Asphalt Magazine, your maintenance plan should include drainage fixes and crack-sealing. Treating the small issues in your pavement over time will save you big bucks and prolong its lifespan. Preventative maintenance is the way to go for all new asphalt services.
- Drive carefully – Speeding, starting and stopping abruptly, and driving off the sides of your asphalt can all bring cracks, potholes, and other deterioration to your new asphalt. These are all ways to wear down the surface. Make sure you’re driving conscientiously to get the most out of your pavement.
- Change up your parking spot – Another way to ensure that your new asphalt isn’t worn unevenly is to park in different spots during the first 30 days of curing.
What Not to Do With Brand New Asphalt:
- Don’t drive on it too soon. You should wait at least 24 hours after the pavement has been applied to allow it to initially cure in order to withstand driving pressure. As Hunker Magazine says, “asphalt is an oil-based product, so in many climates it becomes softer in extreme heat during summer and is prone to cracking or shifting during colder weather when the driveway is subjected to repeated freezing and thawing.” Because Massachusetts is known to have temperatures over 90 degrees in the summer, we suggest waiting even longer to drive on the new asphalt if it is applied during those hotter months.
- Seal it as soon as possible (but not too soon). New asphalt takes anywhere between 6 and 12 months to completely cure. Only when it is completely cured should you get it sealed. Cassidy Paving will work with you to check and get the seal coating applied when the time is right. Just know it could take even longer in the summertime. Home Advisor says that after the first seal is done you should reseal every 1 to 3 years.
Hire the Experts
When the time comes to get your brand new asphalt for your commercial or residential property, you’ll want to give Cassidy Paving a call. We offer warranties on new full-depth jobs that will help you get the maintenance you need when you need it. Call us today at 866-978-9788 to get an estimate from our asphalt experts.