Paving a driveway with asphalt is a huge investment. We understand that customers want to have a well-finished driveway pavement and get the best out of their budget. However, there are instances when the life of the driveway begins to deteriorate way sooner than it should. Can this be prevented?
Fortunately, it can be. Customers can take good care of their driveway by following some of the simplest solutions and prepare their asphalt pavement for longevity. In this post, we will help you understand these solutions and give you ideas that can very well protect your paving and asphalt investment.
Why do Asphalt Pavements Deteriorate?
This is an intriguing question since you have got to understand why an asphalt
breaks to ensure you take ample steps to protect your investment. Most asphalt pavements are well designed and constructed if they are done by professionals. However, the ones that are not designed to perfection start to deteriorate sooner than you expect. Forces of nature like weathering, oxidation, and the softening effects of gasoline and oils are common factors that catalyze the damaging process. But, as the title suggests, there are many ways you can ensure that your driveway and pavement are well protected. Let’s get to it, shall we?
Important Ways You Can Protect Your Paving and Asphalt Investment
Here are some of the important ways you can protect your paving and asphalt investment. Let’s discuss them in detail.
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Prevent Traffic on New Driveway
A new asphalt driveway will take time to cure. It takes at least 24 hours to solidify and might take more time if the temperature in your area is high. It is highly recommended that you keep all traffic away from the driveway during the curing period.
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Eliminate Early Damage
The early damage can occur in 8 to 12 months of the asphalt laying. It is during this time that you should actively try to redirect all sorts of traffic to prevent any depressions or cracking. Place signboards where people can see them.
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Water the Asphalt for Better Effect
The asphalt is known to soften as the temperature rises. It is, therefore, highly recommended that you use water. Sprinkle water on the asphalt with a hose and let the asphalt cure and harden.
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Keep the Edges Safe
The edges can be vulnerable to damage. You should provide ample support to the driveway’s edges using topsoil and ensure that no vehicle drives over the edge of the asphalt.
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Oil Destroys Asphalt
Oil is death for asphalt. Once spilled on the asphalt, it will start seeping in and destroy the liquid asphalt. Make sure there are no holes where oil or other liquid can settle.
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Invest in Seal Coating
Sealcoat your asphalt driveway as soon as the curing period is over. It will help you prevent your driveway get damaged by UV rays, water, and oil. We have published an extensive post on seal coating that we highly recommend you read.
Final Thoughts
There you have it. Now you have complete knowledge of what exactly you should be doing to get the best out of your paving and asphalt investment. Our customers in the Tualatin Valley, Oregon area have been asking questions related to the topic we have discussed today. And it’s a great relief to have provided them with solutions they can put into use right away. Are you finding it hard to maintain your asphalt pavement? Connect with us today!