Welcome back to another thrilling entry on the Sunrise Asphalt blog! Last time we talked about a new job we just completed at the San Xavier Casitas where we set them up with some new pavement for their neighborhood. This had us thinking. What should someone do when they have new asphalt to set themselves up for success? This time we wanted to talk about how you can care for your new asphalt!
New Asphalt Care Tips
Let It Cure!
Believe it or not, pavement isn’t the strongest when it’s brand spankin’ new. That is because the asphalt materials (the aggregate, the binders, and seals etc.) have not had sufficient time to bond together or ‘cure.’ When asphalt is fresh, it needs that time for the bond to develop and become strong. During this time, if anything was to drive or park over the surface the structural integrity of the entire surface could be damaged when will weaken the asphalt faster over it’s life time. Anything that has any significant weight to it should be left off the surface for at least 24 hours to allow the layers of asphalt pavement to dry entirely before use.
Take it Easy
While asphalt pavement is an incredibly tough, sturdy surface it is of course still possible to damage it! Driving or parking improperly on it, placing undue stress (from things such as turning wheels on car or truck while parked, or putting a block under a motorcycle kickstand) can all add significant pressure in ways that can harm the fresh asphalt. While it is cured enough for driving, still be gentle as the pavement fully hardens and cures. Even then, particularly hot days can reheat the very top layers of the asphalt enough to make it semi-soft again and damage can be done if not properly planned for. Always pay attention, and future you will be thankful you did!
Keep an Eye For Engine Oil
Few things will take the smile from your lips as damaged new pavement. To avoid it, be aware of what materials and fluids you are using on the pavement itself. Many oil-based products (fuel, engine oil, etc.) can damage pavement. Should you accidentally spill any, a quick cleanup with a sponge, dry cloth, or even using a specialized cleaner just for the job, can remove the harmful chemicals from the surface. If not the pavement can get a gummy sort of texture, attracting dirt, dust, and debris. Is it the worst thing in the world? No, but it is unsightly and you just had it installed!
Park in Different Spots Over the First 6 to 12 Months
During the first year, your pavement will be still be curing in those deep layers. To help the asphalt cure through properly, make sure you park in different spots on the asphalt to evenly distribute the use during this first year. Particularly avoid driving on the edges of new pavement as the edges are the weakest and the excess weight will crack and crumble, and again, do further damage.
Follow these tips post-pavement installation and your asphalt should hold up quite nicely. Should you be ready for a newly paved surface, in need of repairs, or anything else that requires an asphalt expert, well, you know who to call! Sunrise Asphalt is the premier paving company in Tucson, and our expertise is second to none. Take a look at our completed jobs, read some success stories and trust what Sunrise can do for you!
