Freshly-laid asphalt looks absolutely stunning, and it gives any parking lot or driveway a fresh, modern, and sophisticated appearance. It is a great addition to any commercial or residential property; however, to maintain longevity and usability, proper maintenance is necessary. If you take proper care of your new asphalt, you can keep its beautiful appearance and functionality for up to 15 to 30 years. To prevent expensive repairs and replacements after installation, it’s crucial to follow key do’s and don’ts for aftercare.

Let’s check out what you can do for your asphalt aftercare:

1. Give Time to Cure: You can start driving on asphalt as soon as it is dry, which is usually about 24 hours after it is poured. Although, keep in mind that freshly laid pavement won’t reach its full strength and resistance to damage until it has fully cured, which takes roughly a year. Although your parking lot will be used during the curing process, taking some precautions to avoid harsh use and abuse will pay off in the long run. So, for the first year, monitor and/or restrict the weight of vehicles being driven on it, be aware of the amount of time vehicles are parked in one area, and encourage drivers to slow down and drive sensibly.

2. Maintain Regular Cleaning: Few things can seriously degrade freshly laid asphalt; however, an oil or fuel spill could cause permanent damage. The chemicals that hold asphalt together are broken down by oil and gasoline, which can quickly degrade the structure of your brand-new, smooth asphalt. The penetration of the asphalt surface leads to raveling and worse. It’s essential to keep your asphalt parking lot clean from dirt, debris, leaves, and other materials that can cause damage. Regular sweeping and power washing can help keep it clean and prevent the buildup of contaminants that can degrade the asphalt.

3. Remove Snow and Ice: Snow and ice can cause significant damage to asphalt, especially when the temperature fluctuates between freezing and thawing. When snow or ice accumulates on your asphalt surface, it can create a barrier that prevents the sun’s rays from penetrating and warming the asphalt. This can lead to the formation of ice pockets and frost heaves, which can cause the asphalt to crack or heave, resulting in costly repairs. To prevent damage, it’s essential to remove snow and ice promptly after a winter storm using a snow shovel, snow blower, or even a de-icing agent to melt any remaining ice on the surface.

The don’ts of your asphalt aftercare:

1. Letting Weeds and Plants Grow: When weeds and plants grow around and on the surface of the asphalt, their roots can penetrate and expand, causing the asphalt to crack and break apart. Additionally, weeds and plants can trap moisture on the surface of the asphalt, leading to water damage and weakening of the asphalt. Ensure that the surrounding area is regularly mowed and trimmed to prevent overgrowth.

2. Ignoring Small Cracks and Fissures: They can occur due to a variety of factors, including weather changes, heavy vehicular traffic, and natural wear and tear. However, ignoring these cracks can lead to more significant issues, such as potholes and surface degradation. By taking proactive measures and regular maintenance, you can ensure that your asphalt surface remains in good condition and avoid costly repairs in the long run.
3. Neglect Sealcoating Regularly: To maintain the asphalt pavement’s condition, it is recommended to have a professional reapply the sealcoat every 2-5 years. The frequency of reapplication depends on the amount of traffic, climate, and other factors affecting the pavement’s wear and tear. Reapplying helps to ensure that the pavement stays in good condition and lasts for a longer period.

In conclusion, taking proper care of your asphalt pavement is crucial to ensure that it stays functional and attractive for a long time. Neglecting these essential practices can lead to premature wear and tear, costly repairs, and ultimately, the need for pavement replacement. By following these aftercare tips, you can extend the life of your asphalt pavement, save money, and have a beautiful and functional surface for years to come. Marcelo’s Asphalt Sealcoating can help you maintain and repair the pavement periodically, contact us for a free quote.