Caring for Your New Asphalt Driveway

We are pleased that you have chosen B&B Paving Company to help you with your driveway needs. Now that your new driveway has been installed please see the list below of helpful tips. Following these will ensure that your driveway will be well maintained and last longer.

IMPORTANT NOTE – Due to the introduction of recycled (RAP) asphalt in modern day hot mix asphalt,  backfilling the edges with soil will sometimes cause the asphalt to crack along the top edge of the dirt line. We don’t suggest backfilling until the driveway has cured for 1 year or longer.

#1 For the first 6-12 months your driveway is curing and continuing to harden. It will be helpful if you don’t park in the same spot every time and do not turn your steering wheel back in forth when you are not moving. Be careful when pulling in quickly and turning in tight areas as these motions can scar your driveway.

# 2 Excessive weight from large heavy vehicles can depress your new driveway. Keep all heavy trucks off your new driveway. When storing heavier vehicles for long periods of time, place a piece of plywood under the jack and also under tires. Anything that exerts weight on concentrated areas will create holes and depressions in your new driveway. Watch out for bike stands, lawn chairs and even high heels during warm months when your driveway is new.

#3 The edges are the weakest part of your driveway due to the lack of side support. Avoid driving on the edges since they will crack and crumble in time. We suggest building up the sides of your driveway with topsoil to approximately one inch from the top of the driveway to allow room for sod growth and water drainage. This will support the edges and enhance the appearance after grass is grown.

#4 To preserve your new driveway, it is advisable to seal it with a water based sealer one year after it has been paved. Unprotected driveways remain porous, dry out and become rough. Asphalt is also softened and broken up by gasoline, lube oil, grease, road salts and anti-freeze which drip from cars. Sealer protects asphalt with a coating that is impervious to these harmful elements and also fills and seals hairline cracks. Sealing too soon, however, may cause damage to your new driveway.

Please call us for best time to seal your driveway. With a professional job and scheduled maintenance, you can preserve the life and beauty of your new driveway for many years to come.