Paving a parking lot is a tasking job, but taking care of the new pavement is even bigger. Having pristine pavement is vital since it enhances the property’s appearance and surroundings. When the parking lot paving is dirty and has cracks, people may turn away before getting into the parking lot. Taking care of the new asphalt pavement is essential for its longevity in all seasons thought the year. Our guide will help you get it right.
How Long Should You Wait before Driving and Walking on Freshly Laid Asphalt?
Asphalt paving contractors recommend waiting to walk on the surface until after 24 hours. However, you should wait for at least 72 hours before driving on it and 14 days before parking on the surface. This helps to ensure the longevity of your pavement.
How Long Does It Take Asphalt To Cure Fully?
It takes between six to twelve months for asphalt to cure completely. Weather conditions and asphalt thickness are factors that affect the length of this process. Therefore, you have to wait longer in the hot weather season.
Sprinkling the parking lot with water on hot days to cool the asphalt can help with curing. Driving slowly on new commercial paving asphalt creates less room for scarring marks. Therefore, it would be beneficial to advise drivers to go carefully on freshly laid asphalt.
Mistakes to Avoid Making with New Asphalt
Asphalt is one of the most valuable and durable products that commercial paving contractors offer in the market. You must protect it from misuse and conduct some maintenance practices to get the most out of your investment. Below are some commercial paving mistakes to avoid.
a) Avoid Parking on the Same Spot Daily
When paving a parking lot, it can take up to a year to cure fully. Therefore, try to avoid parking in the same spot every day.
Also, try to limit the length of time motorcycles, lawn chairs, etc. stay in the same position for an extended period since it may cause some dents on fresh asphalt.
b) Don’t Drive On the Edges
The asphalt pavement edge is the weakest. Frequently putting too much weight on the edge causes cracks and splits in the pavement. Also, avoid driving your car wayside since its weight can cause the edge to flatten and fall apart.
c) Avoid More Weight on the Surface
The new asphalt from local paving companies can lose value due to excessive weight, especially from heavy trucks. However, if you want to keep campers or other heavy vehicles for a while, place plywood underneath the tongue jack and under the tires for proper weight distribution and to prevent portions of the pavement from sagging.
Conclusion
Commercial paving services are an investment and reliable asphalt paving companies should guide their customer in the proper care of their pavement to help them get the best value for their money. Proper care of asphalt goes a long way in extending the life of your lot. These tips should help you maintain a lasting pavement for years to come.
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