What to Expect When Paving With Asphalt

If you’re looking to pave your driveway, asphalt is the best option. Concrete tends to crack and is easily damaged by salt other ice melting compounds. It also takes a long time to cure, so you won’t be parking on it anytime soon. Asphalt paving withstands winter temperatures better, resisting heaving from the cold and remaining in one solid piece as long as you reseal it every few years. Not sure how to get started? Have a look at the process.

 

How to Prepare

If you have a concrete driveway that’s in good shape, it doesn’t take much to prepare. Simply install directly over the current material. However, if your concrete is damaged, it’s best to remove it before laying down asphalt. You’ll want to put down a layer of gravel to add durability to your new driveway after bringing it back to soil.

 

How to Install

After you have a foundation, proceed to asphalt paving. This is a very precise process that requires temperatures between 40 and 70 degrees and dry weather. It also requires a contractor with equipment that can heat the mix to a full 300 degrees. You can expect the project to take between 30 – 60 minutes at the most.

 

What to Do After

After the asphalt has been spread, your new driveway should sit for 1 or 2 days to solidify before you drive on it. You may be tempted to seal it right away, but don’t. If you seal it too soon, it will still be pliable and break down much faster than it would if you wait the requisite 6 – 9 months. After those months are up, it’s important that you use a sealant and reseal every 5 years to keep it in prime shape.

 

Asphalt paving is the best way to create a driveway that will last for years to come, but you can’t do it by yourself. By hiring a contractor to lay down pavement and taking good care of it over time, you’ll have a serviceable driveway that resists the worst your local weather can throw at it.