It’s important to realize that asphalt takes a minimum
of 2 years to fully cure, or harden.
Try to keep traffic off your new driveway for at least 2 or
3 days after the new pavement is placed. New asphalt is soft,
particularly on warm sunny days.
Be sure to back up the edges of your fresh pavement with loam
or gravel after paving. The edges are the weakest part of your
driveway and need that support.
Avoid parking in the same spot every time until the driveway
has fully cured. Definitely avoid turning your steering wheel
while the vehicle is not in motion. Spinning yours tires, rapid
starts and stops as well as sharp turns may also result in marking
or damage.
Sharp or heavy objects such as kickstands, dumpsters, ladders,
automobile ramps and jacks may create dents or holes in your driveway.
Use these items cautiously even after the asphalt has fully cured.
Placing a board or piece of plywood under heavy items with a small
footprint is strongly advised.
Automotive fluids, chemicals, oil, gasoline, diesel and heating
oil will soften or dissolve unsealed asphalt. Spills should be
cleaned up as soon as possible. Oil Dry, kitty litter or rags
will absorb the fluid. Cleaning the area with a mild detergent
and flushing with water may also work with some chemicals.
We recommend waiting 12 months before sealing your new driveway.
Asphalt needs exposure to the air and elements to cure, so sealing
too soon will increase the time it needs to fully harden.
Heavy trucks such as those used to deliver heating oil can also
cause damage, particularly in the spring when the ground is soft.
With a little care and some common sense, a driveway should
last for many years.
20 Walnut Hill Parkway North Yarmouth, ME 04097
P:207-829-3455 / F:207-829-2141
