Mistakes to Avoid After Getting a Brand-New Asphalt Driveway Installation

With the Right Maintenance Tips Your Newly Installed Asphalt Driveway Has a Chance to Last a Long Time

Set the Right Foundation for a Healthy Asphalt Driveway

The groundwork for the lifespan of your driveway is determined at installation. Asphalt driveway installation is where a lot of mistakes can be made. The first and most common mistake is made when opting for a cheaper and less reputable contractor. This mistake leads to several others, including the use of subpar materials and workmanship which results in early degradation and eventual costly repairs. Investing in a reputable contractor with a track record of quality work saves you untold time, stress, and money.

The Best Driveway maintenance is Consistent Care

Neglect is always a bad strategy but neglecting regular asphalt driveway maintenance is a grave error.

Once you install a new asphalt driveway, the surface can deteriorate without proper care. Eventually, if not cared for properly damage like potholes and cracks are the result. the good news is that there are some pretty simple steps you can take to maintain your driveway and extend its lifespan. If you simply sweep to remove debris, fill cracks promptly, and apply sealant every few years, it goes a long way.

Parking Heavy Vehicles on a New Asphalt Surface is a Mistake

In general, parking heavy vehicles like construction equipment and RVs on your asphalt driveway can cause significant damage over time requiring extensive driveway repair. This is even more true when a driveway is new and the asphalt is more flexible. This sort of continual heavy pressure is beyond the asphalt’s capacity and causes depressions, cracks, and even structural failure. Unless you install a reinforced section specifically designed to support heavy loads, you should avoid any heavy vehicles on your driveway.

Water is One of the Leading Causes of Asphalt Driveway Deterioration

The life of your asphalt driveway is quickly eroded when it has improper drainage. Standing water can seep into the asphalt and cause a weakening structure which shows up as cracks and potholes. There are two ways to ensure proper drainage. One is the slope of the driveway, allowing water to flow away from the surface. The second is to install drainage systems in and around your driveway to prevent water from pooling.

Make Sure You enlist the Help of a Professional Driveway Maintenance Service

Some maintenance tasks are DYI-friendly, but most repairs and maintenance should be done professionally by driveway maintenance services. Tackling these driveway repairs and maintenance without the proper equipment and expertise is another major mistake. Not only can the experienced professional ensure that the job is done correctly, but they can also identify and address signs of a future bigger problem that could cost significantly more money.

A Little Patience Goes a Long Way

Your freshly installed asphalt driveway needs to be cured. One of the most common mistakes is to start using your new driveway too soon.

Your driveway may look like it is ready for use right after it is installed but the truth is it needs to cure and harden before it can be used. Premature wear and tear from weighty vehicles leads to a shorter lifespan.

Listen to your contractor, they’ll recommend a proper curing time before you start using it regularly.

Ensure the Longevity of Your Asphalt Driveway

You have gone to the extensive effort and cost to improve your property’s curb appeal and effectiveness by installing an asphalt driveway. So, avoid the mistake of neglecting maintenance, parking heavy vehicles, and not thinking of proper drainage. If you’re going to invest in a new driveway then invest in a professional maintenance service and follow best practices for care and usage.

Contact Burnaby Blacktop and make sure you are working with an experienced professional who not only knows how to do a quality job but also knows what to look out for. Enhance the value of your home and ensure the longevity of your asphalt driveway.