Asphalt pavement is remarkably durable and attractive, and if cared for properly, it can often last for decades. If you have had new asphalt pavement installed, you may be wondering whether there is anything special you should or should not do to take care of your investment in pavement. Here are some tips to help you ensure that you do not inadvertently damage your new pavement.
Caring After New Pavement – Restrict Traffic Temporarily
The length of time that you need to keep your new pavement closed to traffic depends on several factors. For example, the temperature, the depth of the asphalt and the type of traffic that will be using the pavement can all influence the waiting time. In some cases, you can allow traffic on the morning following the installation, but in other situations, you will need to keep the area closed for as long as 48 hours. Ask your contractor how long to restrict traffic and follow his instructions.
Allow Adequate Time for Curing
Your asphalt pavement will not be fully cured until approximately one year has passed since installation. During this time, your pavement can be damaged more easily than older pavements. The primary risk involves actions that could leave scars or depressions in the surface of the pavement. Risks are increased during the heat of summer.
• Turning the steering wheel while the vehicle is stopped can leave marks on the pavement.
• Kickstands on bikes and motorcycles as well as the tongue supports for trailers can leave depressions in the asphalt pavement.
• Heavy loads should not be left stationary for an extended period.
Have Sealcoating Applied at the Proper Time
Sealants can significantly prolong the life of asphalt pavement. Sealcoating blocks UV radiation and protects against automotive fluids and other chemicals. You may have heard that if you wait too long to have sealcoating applied to new asphalt pavement, the pavement could incur damage. However, you may not be aware that you can also apply sealcoating too soon after the installation of your new pavement.
Asphalt is a petroleum-based material, so it contains a certain amount of oil. As the pavement cures, it loses some of this oil. If sealant is applied before the pavement has lost enough oil, the sealcoating will not be able to form as strong a bond with the pavement as it would form if the pavement contained less oil.
Typically, you should wait at least 30 days before you have sealcoating applied after paving. Your contractor may advise that you wait for an even longer period, but you should not delay for more than 12 months. One way to judge whether new pavement is ready for sealcoating is to pour some water on the pavement. If the pavement is ready to be sealed, the water will spread out instead of puddling and not display any trace of a rainbow.
Contact Alpha Paving for Your Sealcoating Needs
Alpha Paving is a full-service asphalt and paving contractor serving customers in Austin, TX and throughout most of Central Texas. We apply more gallons of sealcoating annually than any other company in the state. Our crews deliver quality work in a professional, safe manner, and they are committed to providing exceptional customer service. In addition to seal coat, we offer asphalt paving and overlays, asphalt repair, pavement markings and parking lot striping, road construction, parking lot signs and wheel stops, speed bumps, concrete paving, and parking lot maintenance. We provide our services to municipalities, shopping malls, apartment complexes, HOAs, retail stores, churches, office parks, airports, schools, subdivisions, industrial facilities and many other types of public and private organizations. If you have more questions about Caring After New Pavement, you can obtain a free quote by filling out the online form or calling (512) 677-9001.
We also serve the areas of Buda, Kyle, Killeen, Cedar Park, Leander, Belton, Hutto, Lakeway, Lago Vista, Taylor !