Frequently Asked Questions – Paving, Driveways, Seal Coat
Q. How long does it take to get a free estimate?
A. Typically 24-72 hrs.
Q. How long will my new asphalt surface last?
A. With a really good base, you can expect your new asphalt pavement to last about 10-20 yrs. However, the lifespan depends on traffic (heavy vs. light), climate, and asphalt maintenance.
Q. How long can I drive on my new asphalt again?
A. You can walk on it immediately after completion, but you’ll want to keep automobile traffic off of it for 3-7 days. The hotter the temperature, the longer we recommend staying off it.
Q. How long before my new asphalt surface will finally cure?
A. Even though you can drive on it in 3-7 days, your new asphalt pavement does not fully cure for 12 months.
Q. Is there anything I should do during that 12 month curing period?
A. Yes!
To avoid leaving blemishes on your asphalt pavement, do not turn your steering wheel back and forth when your vehicle is not moving. However, these blemishes don’t affect the structural integrity of your pavement and will eventually even out.
Don’t park in the same spot every time since your tires might leave small depressions.
Don’t use jack stands, car ramps, or trailers with excessive tongue weight. These can also leave depressions in the asphalt surface.
Q. Are there any products that can hurt my new asphalt surface?
A. Yes! Avoid spilling or leaking any gasoline, oil, antifreeze, power steering and transmission fluid. These will dilute the liquid asphalt and can leave holes in your asphalt pavement surface. If you do notice spills or leaks, immediately wash/scrub the area with dish soap and a stiff bristle brush until it is completely washed off the pavement.
Q. What should I do along the edges of my new asphalt surface?
A. The edges are the weakest part of your new asphalt pavement since they lack support. Avoid driving on or over the edges–they WILL crack and crumble in time. We recommend building up the sides with topsoil and seed, which will support the edges.
Q. Why are some areas smoother/coarser than others?
A. Asphalt has various sized stones, sand, liquid asphalt, and other ingredients that cause a varied texture of the surface. Areas that have been raked out with hand tools may appear different in texture from those spread by our paving machine.
Q. Can weeds or other vegetation grow through my asphalt pavement?
A. Yes. Although we make every effort to remove weeds and vegetation before paving, sometimes weeds have very deep roots and push through the asphalt surface. We suggest the owner spray any weeds and vegetation growing around the pavement with a high-quality weed killer. Apply the weed killer on a sunny day with no rain in the forecast for at least the next two days.
Q. When and how often should I seal coat my new asphalt surface?
A. We suggest you have your new asphalt pavement sealed 1 year after installation. After that, seal coat it every 2-4 years after the first seal coat job, depending on the amount of surface wear. But you don’t want to get it sealed too often, since that can cause excessive build-up, shrinkage, cracking, and will make the surface very slippery. Ask a professional if you’re unsure – we’re happy to help!
