If you’ve just had new asphalt installed or planning to have one installed and want to make sure you prepare ahead of time, you may be wondering how long you must wait before driving on the asphalt.
After it has been placed, you want your asphalt driveway to be as robust and long-lasting as it possibly can. If you drive too quickly and get irritated after your driveway has been paved, you may harm it.
As soon as the asphalt is poured, you must give it the necessary attention and upkeep. Knowing when to drive on freshly laid asphalt is an essential part of proper maintenance.
Asphalt Wait Time
If you do not sealcoat your asphalt, you must wait at least 72 hours before driving on it and 14 days before parking. These recommendations must be adhered to guarantee that your asphalt lasts for an extended period.
Uncured asphalt can be damaged by the weight of heavy vehicles, such as cars. Larger vehicles, such as trucks and campers, are at greater risk. Even after the 72-hour limit, heavy vehicles can still cause damage to driveways if your asphalt driveways are not built to handle them.
Asphalt Sealcoat Wait Time
Sealcoating protects asphalt and prolongs pavement life. It protects asphalt surfaces from stains, sun, and harsh weather. It does not require that asphalt be completely dry before it can be laid. However, it doesn’t need to be cured for drivability.
Sealcoating, like asphalt, takes time to cure, and the weather conditions will affect the drying time of the asphalt. Sealcoating can be applied in 12 hours if the asphalt has been laid, and it may take 48 to 72 hours to apply seal coating in warmer climates. It is not recommended to park heavy-loaded vehicles or heavy traffic on your new asphalt driveway during this time.
Tips While In Asphalt Wait Time
While the asphalt is curing, you should avoid doing the following things to keep your asphalt surface safe and durable for as long as possible:
- driving on the asphalt for up to three days, or longer if the weather is very hot;
- using motorcycle or bicycle stands on uncured asphalt;
- parking your car on any part of the asphalt surface;
- driving on the asphalt’s edges;
- driving huge cars on the asphalt;
- and splashing gasoline or oil on the asphalt are all examples of illegal activities.
These tips are just an extra layer of protection for creating a safe new asphalt driveway. Driving on fresh asphalt usually is possible within three days, and however, this might vary depending on the weather. Ask your asphalt contractor for information about when you can drive on or park on new asphalt.
A-Rock Asphalt Services is always ready to assist you. We don’t just install your asphalt pavement successfully. We also provide helpful tips to ensure that your asphalt will be maintained well and provide convenient usability to you and your family. So, what are you waiting for? Contact us now to learn more.