Question 1

When can I drive on my new asphalt?

Accepted Answer

You can drive on your new driveway normally as soon as it's cooled. This will take around 3 days. During the first few weeks, however, avoid sudden braking, unnecessary hard acceleration, or aggressive maneuvering on the new surface.

Question 2

Why should I vary where I park my vehicle?

Accepted Answer

Try not to park in the same location every day during the first 30 days. Repeatedly placing a vehicle's weight in the same area while the asphalt is still curing can contribute to depressions or tire impressions, particularly during warm weather.

Question 3

Why should I keep moving while turning my vehicle?

Accepted Answer

When making turns, especially sharp turns, keep the vehicle rolling slowly. Turning the steering wheel while the vehicle is stopped can cause the tires to grind against the asphalt. This is sometimes called dry steering, and it is one of the most common causes of early surface damage.

Question 4

Can trailer jacks and kickstands damage new asphalt?

Accepted Answer

Yes, motorcycle kickstands, trailer jacks, equipment legs, and similar objects concentrate weight onto a very small area. On new asphalt, these point loads can sink into the surface and leave permanent indentations. If something must rest on the driveway, use an appropriate pad or other method to spread the weight over a larger area.

Question 5

Can I park heavy equipment on new asphalt?

Accepted Answer

No, do not park heavy equipment, dumpsters, or trailers on the new surface. Heavy vehicles, dumpsters, loaded trailers, and similar objects can place significant pressure on a small area and may leave depressions while the asphalt is still curing.

Question 6

How does hot weather impact new asphalt?

Accepted Answer

Asphalt does not become completely hardened immediately after installation. It continues to cure over time, and during hot summer afternoons the surface can soften slightly.Because of this, new asphalt is particularly vulnerable to sharp turns and concentrated loads during hot weather.Even after the initial curing period, it is a good habit to avoid turning your tires while completely stationary whenever the pavement is especially hot.

Question 7

How long does new asphalt take to cure?

Accepted Answer

It takes 2-3 days for the initial curing process to be completed. After this period, you can drive normally on your new driveway as long as you avoid dry steering and you vary your parking locations.After at least 7-10 days, it is generally safe to drive RVs, heavy vehicles, and delivery trucks on the new surface.Avoid placing trailer jacks and kickstands on the asphalt for at least 30 days after installation. If you must park a trailer or motorcycle on the new surface before then, please place a protective pad or a piece of wood underneath the jack or kickstand.After 30 days, it is generally okay to park heavy vehicles, equipment, or dumpsters on the surface.The asphalt surface will continue to cure and harden in the 6-12 months after installation. The surface will still be prone to damage, and it is important to be careful, especially during hot weather.

Question 8

Why does proper asphalt care matter?

Accepted Answer

Many marks that appear on a newly paved driveway are not caused by a problem with the asphalt itself. They can result from vehicle tires twisting against a warm surface or from heavy loads being concentrated in one location.Following these simple precautions during the first several weeks gives the pavement time to cure and helps your new driveway maintain a smooth, clean appearance.

Caring for Your New Asphalt Driveway

The Quick Care Guide

✔  Drive on it once it has cooled
✔  Keep moving while turning
✔  Vary where you park
✘  Don't turn the steering wheel while stopped
✘  Don't place heavy or concentrated loads on the surface
☀ Be Extra Careful During Hot Weather

⬇ Learn more about caring for your driveway ⬇

Frequently Asked Questions

When can I drive on my new asphalt?

Why should I vary where I park my vehicle?

Why should I keep moving while turning my vehicle?

Can trailer jacks and kickstands damage new asphalt?

Can I park heavy equipment on new asphalt?

How does hot weather impact new asphalt?

How long does new asphalt take to cure?

Why does proper asphalt care matter?

Keep This Guide Handy

Have any questions?

Serving Donnelly, McCall, Cascade, New Meadows, Council, Valley County, Adams County, and surrounding Idaho mountain communities.

"We Lay It Down."

Caring for Your New Asphalt Driveway

The Quick Care Guide

✔ Drive on it once it has cooled ✔ Keep moving while turning ✔ Vary where you park ✘ Don't turn the steering wheel while stopped ✘ Don't place heavy or concentrated loads on the surface ☀ Be Extra Careful During Hot Weather

⬇ Learn more about caring for your driveway ⬇

Frequently Asked Questions

When can I drive on my new asphalt?

Why should I vary where I park my vehicle?

Why should I keep moving while turning my vehicle?

Can trailer jacks and kickstands damage new asphalt?

Can I park heavy equipment on new asphalt?

How does hot weather impact new asphalt?

How long does new asphalt take to cure?

Why does proper asphalt care matter?

Keep This Guide Handy

Have any questions?

Serving Donnelly, McCall, Cascade, New Meadows, Council, Valley County, Adams County, and surrounding Idaho mountain communities.

"We Lay It Down."

✔ Drive on it once it has cooled
✔ Keep moving while turning
✔ Vary where you park
✘ Don't turn the steering wheel while stopped
✘ Don't place heavy or concentrated loads on the surface
☀ Be Extra Careful During Hot Weather