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There are several things you can do to make sure your new driveway stays in good condition for many years to come.
Scotty's customers receive a letter after the purchase of a new driveway. If you have lost it and would like a copy, you may download it by clicking here.
Tips
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 Automobile traffic needs to stay off of the driveway for 3 days after paving. (If it is very hot you will want to wait longer.) |
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Asphalt can remain relatively soft for up to 12 months. So although it is certainly not required, you can use cool water from the hose to cause the driveway to harden for particularly heavy loads. |
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Starting and stopping too fast or driving at extreme rates of speed on an asphalt surface can cause scaring . . .especially in the first 12 months. |
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During the first 12 months: |
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o It is important to not park in exactly the same location. |
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o Avoid using jacks and other such items unless a piece of plywood is placed under them, since they put a great deal of pressure on one spot. |
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o Along the same lines watch out for kickstands and pointy high-heels, especially on extremely hot days. |
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o Excessive weight from large heavy vehicles can depress your new blacktop. Since you don’t want a sad driveway, you will want to keep concrete, oil and other such heavy trucks off your new driveway. When storing campers for long periods of time, place a piece of plywood under the tongue jack and under the tires. |
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Although your driveway doesn’t need side support, the edges are still the weakest part, so it is better not to drive on the edges. This avoids cracking or crumbling that can occur over time. |
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Building up the edges with topsoil is a great idea that will strengthen the edges. (The appearance of your driveway will be enhanced as well when grass is grown.) |
Frequently Asked Questions - Answered
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 Walking on your driveway immediately after paving does not hurt it.
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When highly chlorinated water (such as city water) comes in contact with a new asphalt surface, it is not unusual to see soap-like bubbles come up. This is a natural chemical reaction between elements in the surface and the chlorine.
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Although every effort is made to avoid any puddles at all, some small puddles can form depending on the natural slope and drainage of your ground.
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Generally, asphalt driveways are extremely smooth and nice looking; however there certainly can be differences in the appearance from place to place upon close examination. Blacktop contains various sizes of stone, sand, liquid asphalt, and other ingredients, which can cause a varied texture of the surface. In addition, blacktop areas that have been raked and spread with hand tools may appear different in texture from those spread by machine.
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Gasoline, oil, antifreeze, power steering and transmission fluid spills and leaks can harm practically any surface. Any hole left by these spills should be filled with a cold patch. Any hairline cracks that may have developed over the winter due to the contraction and expansion of the ground should be filled with crack filler. These products can be purchased from your local building supply store.
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Seal coating is an excellent way to add years of life to your new driveway. Sealing too soon, however, may cause damage to your new drive. The best time to seal is 3-12 months after it has been paved, and every 2-3 years thereafter. Because blacktop is naturally porous, water can seep into and through the paving. This not only causes deterioration, but also results in ridges and upheaval due to frost and freezing. Blacktop is also softened and broken up by gasoline, lube oil, grease, road salts and antifreeze, which drip from cars. Sealer protects blacktop with a coating that is impervious to these harmful elements.
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