A newly installed asphalt driveway can significantly enhance the curb appeal of your home while providing a smooth and durable surface for your vehicles. To ensure its longevity and appearance, it’s essential to implement proper care and maintenance, especially during the summer months when the sun and heat can take a toll on asphalt surfaces.Here’s a guide on how to care for your new summer asphalt driveway:
Allow Proper Curing Time
After installation, your asphalt driveway needs time to cure. Typically, it’s recommended to wait at least 24 to 48 hours before driving on it. Avoid parking heavy vehicles or placing heavy objects on the surface during this period to prevent indentations.
Regular Cleaning
Keep your driveway clean by sweeping away debris, leaves, and dirt regularly. This prevents these materials from becoming ingrained in the asphalt surface and causing damage over time.
Prevent Oil and Fluid Stains
Oil, gasoline, and other automotive fluids can weaken the asphalt and cause unsightly stains. Promptly clean up any spills using absorbent materials like cat litter or sawdust. For stubborn stains, use a commercial asphalt cleaner.
Avoid Heavy Vehicles
Particularly in the summer, it’s easy for tire tracks to show up. This is because the asphalt heats up in the sun. Tight and sharp turns with your tires can leave the marks. Once you have the marks, there’s not much you can do about it. You simply have to use a little extra caution – and let all drivers know what they need to do so that you don’t end up with the tire tracks. Otherwise, time and oxidization will ultimately take care of the problem.
Oil and Fuel Spots
Fuel spills and oil spots are going to happen from time to time. If you let the problem sit on the driveway, it’s going to attract dust and dirt. It might also have a negative impact on the asphalt over time. To practice good driveway maintenance, clean up the spills and spots as they occur. If your driveway is sealed properly, you won’t have a lot of problems. You might also want to discuss what a seal coat contractor can do about some of the spots you already have.One thing to be aware of is that you should be able to contact the professionals when you’re having any kind of
driveway maintenance issues. If a company doesn’t return your call, they’re not reputable.This is why it’s best to work with a good company from the very start, and this can be identified by the
testimonials that are offered.
Call us at 301-663-5861 today to have one of our asphalt professionals schedule a time to discuss your project.
