Smooth Paving

The Dos and Don'ts of Asphalt Aftercare

You finally got around to having your asphalt project completed, (or maybe you are getting ready to install new asphalt!) and now your question is, how do I take care of it? Here are some Dos and Don’ts to follow for aftercare once asphalt has been laid:

Dos of Asphalt Aftercare

  1. paving a store parking lotAllow the asphalt to cool and harden for at least 24 hours before walking or driving on it.
  2. Regularly clean the asphalt pavement to prevent debris, dirt, and leaves from accumulating and causing damage. In addition, remove snow and ice promptly, as water can have major impacts on asphalt and cause your asphalt to break down prematurely.
  3. Use caution when parking heavy vehicles or equipment on your new asphalt pavement for at least a week after installation.
  4. Have the pavement sealcoated after the first year and then every 2-3 years thereafter to protect the surface of the asphalt pavement. This layer of protection helps to prevent water, oil, and other substances from penetrating the pavement, which can cause damage over time.
  5. Address any cracks or damage to the pavement promptly to prevent them from becoming larger and more costly to repair. Smooth Paving can help you with all your asphalt maintenance needs.
  6. Use caution when driving or turning on the asphalt pavement for the first few weeks after installation to avoid creating ruts or other damage.
  7. Regularly inspect the asphalt pavement for signs of wear or damage and address any issues that are identified. When addressed early, asphalt maintenance can be easy and does not require extensive labor.

Don'ts of Asphalt Aftercare

  1. Don’t walk or drive on the asphalt pavement before it has had a chance to cool and harden for at least 24 hours. The curing process is important to the longevity of your pavement.
  2. Don’t park heavy vehicles or equipment on your new asphalt pavement for the first week after installation.
  3. Don’t use harsh chemicals, such as gasoline or oil, on your asphalt pavement as they can cause the pavement to break down and become damaged. If chemicals do leak onto your pavement, be sure to clean and remove them immediately.
  4. Don’t turn sharply or suddenly on the asphalt pavement for the first few weeks after installation as this can create ruts or other damage.
  5. Don’t let water sit on the pavement for extended periods of time. When water penetrates the surface of asphalt, it can cause the binder that holds the aggregate together to break down, resulting in a softening of the asphalt. This can lead to cracks and potholes.

Why Aftercare is So Important

Proper aftercare is crucial after asphalt paving because it helps to ensure that the surface remains in good condition over time. Here are some reasons why aftercare is so important:

  1. Allows the asphalt to cure properly: After asphalt is laid, it needs time to cure and harden. Proper aftercare, such as avoiding heavy traffic or parking on the surface, helps to ensure that the asphalt cures properly and does not become damaged.
  2. Protects against damage: Newly laid asphalt is vulnerable to damage from weather conditions, heavy traffic, and other factors. Proper aftercare helps to protect against this damage, ensuring that the surface remains smooth and strong.
  3. Prevents premature wear and tear: If the asphalt surface is not properly maintained after it is laid, it can quickly begin to show signs of wear and tear. This can lead to the need for costly repairs or even replacement in the future.
  4. Increases lifespan: Proper aftercare can help to extend the lifespan of the asphalt surface. This means that it will need to be replaced less frequently, which can save time and money over the long term.

If you have questions about an asphalt paving project, contact the professionals at Smooth Paving! Our knowledgeable staff can guide you through the process of laying asphalt and all that follows once your project has been completed. We want to give you the best service possible before, during and after your asphalt installation.