Asphalt Driveway & Parking Lot Maintenance Tips | DJs Paving

Congratulations on your new asphalt surface! DJs Paving is proud to be your trusted asphalt paving contractor for residential and commercial projects. To help you get the most out of your new asphalt driveway, parking area, or parking lot, we’ve compiled essential asphalt care and maintenance tips to ensure long-lasting durability, curb appeal, and performance.

The Curing Process: What to Expect

Asphalt requires 6 to 12 months to fully cure, during which it remains soft and pliable. While you can walk on your new asphalt driveway immediately, we recommend waiting at least three full days before allowing vehicle traffic, especially in hot weather.

Even after curing, remember that asphalt will never be as rigid as concrete. It will continue to soften in heat and harden in cooler temperatures, especially during the first year.

Tips for Asphalt Driveway Longevity

Do:

  • Lightly hose down the surface on hot days to temporarily cool and firm the asphalt.
  • Vary your parking spots to prevent surface wear.
  • Use plywood under motorcycle kickstands, car ramps, trailer jacks, or campers to distribute weight evenly.
  • Build up the edges with topsoil to support sides and prevent crumbling.

Don’t:

  • Drive or park on the asphalt within the first 72 hours after paving.
  • Turn the steering wheel while the vehicle is stationary on the driveway.
  • Let large trucks, oil delivery vehicles, or concrete mixers drive on the surface.
  • Use jack stands or ramps directly on the asphalt without protection.

Protecting Against Spills & Stains

Gasoline, motor oil, anti-freeze, power steering fluid, and transmission fluid can break down and damage asphalt. Clean any spills immediately to prevent long-term damage. Use cold patch for filling small holes and crack filler for winter-related hairline cracks. These materials are available at most home improvement stores.

Heavy Loads Can Damage Asphalt

Avoid prolonged weight from heavy vehicles. High heel shoes, bike kickstands, and other pointed objects can also cause indentations, especially when the pavement is warm and soft.

Understanding Surface Texture & Appearance

Asphalt is made from a combination of stones, sand, and liquid binder, resulting in natural texture variations. Areas hand-raked during installation may differ slightly in appearance from machine-applied sections, this is normal and does not affect performance. These slight differences in texture and color are a natural part of the paving process. Over time, the surface will weather uniformly, blending these variations for a more consistent look. Routine maintenance like sealcoating can also help enhance the appearance and longevity of the asphalt.

Sealcoating for Long-Term Protection

To protect your asphalt surface from water, UV rays, vehicle fluids, and seasonal freeze-thaw cycles, it’s important to apply a sealcoat. However, don’t seal too early. The ideal time to seal your new asphalt is between 3 to 12 months after installation, then every 2–3 years thereafter.

Sealcoating helps:

  • Prevent water infiltration that can lead to cracking and frost damage.
  • Shield the surface from oils, road salts, and chemical leaks.
  • Extend the life and appearance of your driveway or parking lot.
Preserve Your Asphalt Investment with DJs Paving

Proper asphalt driveway and parking lot maintenance is key to maximizing the lifespan and aesthetics of your pavement. Follow these guidelines to keep your surface looking great and performing well for years to come.

For more information or to schedule a sealcoating or asphalt maintenance service in Canton, Farmington Hills, or nearby Michigan communities, contact DJs Paving today.

FAQs
  • How long does it take for a new asphalt driveway to fully cure?

    New asphalt surfaces typically take 6 to 12 months to fully cure. During this time, the pavement remains soft and pliable. While you can walk on it right away, it's best to avoid vehicle traffic for at least 72 hours, especially in hot weather.

  • What should I avoid doing during the asphalt curing process?

    To protect your new asphalt during curing, do not park in the same spot repeatedly, avoid sharp turns while stationary, and keep heavy vehicles off the surface. Also, avoid using jack stands, ramps, or sharp objects directly on the asphalt without a protective barrier.

  • How can I protect my asphalt driveway from spills and stains?

    Avoid letting fluids like gasoline, motor oil, anti-freeze, and power steering fluid sit on your asphalt. Clean spills immediately and use a cold patch or crack filler to repair minor damage. These products are available at most hardware or building supply stores.

  • When should I sealcoat my new asphalt surface?

    The ideal time to sealcoat your new asphalt is between 3 to 12 months after installation. After the initial sealcoat, it should be reapplied every 2–3 years to protect against water, UV rays, oil, road salt, and seasonal weather damage.

  • Why does my asphalt surface have different textures in some areas?

    Asphalt naturally varies in appearance due to its mix of stone, sand, and binder. Areas spread by hand may look different from those applied by machine, but this variation is normal and does not affect the durability or performance of your pavement.