Got a new driveway recently installed within the last 3 years? It's time to properly care for it so you can use it for years to come. When it comes to your driveway, a lot goes into the construction of it. There are a few things that you can do to keep your driveway looking great and performing well. You should get residential asphalt paving in Palo Alto from a reputable contractor.
Remember that old driveway has been around for a while, and they are likely it is to settle over time due to natural settlement and vehicle compaction due to tires. So if you're putting down new asphalt, make sure you don't skimp on the quality of your asphalt or the subbase. When you hire an experienced contractor, they can construct the best driveway that meets your needs. Once it's done, you need to ensure that it stays like that for a long time. Here are seven tips to properly care for your newly built driveway:
1- Don't Start Parking From The First Day Itself
Residential asphalt paving in Palo Alto requires time to cool off. Although the contractors can finish the installation within a day, avoid harsh use for the first few days such as avoid turning wheels while vehicle is in motion and avoid large garbage trucks driving over it. Your driveway will keep getting stronger with each day that passes. If you start using it from the first day, the asphalt binders will not likely fuse and allow proper off gassing to promote a strong finished product. Another way to prevent damage is by sealing the finished surface with Fog Seal.
2- Keep It Level
The best way to care for your newly built driveway is to ensure it is properly leveled. If there are dips or bumps on the pavement surface, these can cause problems for vehicles passing over them. If necessary, you should try using an appropriate grade leveler so that everything stays level and smooth throughout its life span. If debris or bumps are on the surface, you should get rough or find grading before paving.
3- Use Sealcoating
Use a quality sealant on your new driveway, so it lasts longer and doesn't crack or chip over time. You can get blacktop sealing service from an asphalt contractor. When your driveway is sealed, it will look good and won't crack easily over time.
4- Keep Weeds Away
Keep all weeds away from the edges of your driveway. It can act as a magnet for moisture and cause cracks to form in the concrete surface over time. You will have to contact Asphalt Driveway Repair in Palo Alto if you find that your driveway is filled with weeds. You can also use weed barriers to keep them from growing back up after being removed once again. These can be purchased online or at any hardware store near you!
5- Do Regular Cleaning
Make sure to keep up with regular maintenance on your driveway. Many homeowners don't realize that their driveway needs to be maintained year-round. If you let it get too rough, it will cost you more money in repairs than what it would have cost to maintain it properly in the first place. You must clean your new driveway regularly. It will keep dirt, dust, and other debris from building on the driveway's surface. The more often you clean it, the longer it will last.
6- Avoid Liquid Spills
If your car is leaky, don't park it on the driveway at the same place. Liquid spills can leave stains on your new driveway and dissolve the binding agents in your asphalt surface. For a temporary solution, consider placing a metal tray or cardboard to capture the oil leaks. Getting your vehicle fixed is better, so you won't face such issues. Maintain a good drainage system so that water doesn't pool up in your driveway and cause damage to the structure over time.
7- Fill Up Cracks When They Appear
When cracks or holes appear in your new driveway, patching them right away is one way that you can help preserve the driveway. You can also consider getting Asphalt Driveway Repair in Palo Alto. Although new driveways don't usually crack up easily, getting repairs on time is always a good idea.
Conclusion
A driveway is the first thing people see when they arrive at your home. It sets the tone for the rest of your house and needs to look nice. If you follow the tips mentioned above and take good care of your driveway, it will last a long time and look great! You can consider hiring El Camino General Engineering for all your asphalt paving needs.
