When can I drive or walk on my new asphalt driveway?

You can walk on your asphalt immediately but we recommend that you keep vehicular traffic off of your new pavement for at least 12 hours, or longer, after your pavement has been installed. Be aware that everyday household items such as bike kick stands, motorcycles, car ramps and even high heels may create holes or depressions on your new surface.

How long does it take asphalt to cure?

It can take up to 12 months for the liquid asphalt to harden and cure. The surface of asphalt will harden and soften as temperatures rise and fall. This is completely normal.

Will power steering marks hurt my new driveway?

Vehicles equipped with power steering can leave marks on your asphalt. This is very common. Try to avoid turning the wheel on your vehicle when in a stopped position. Turning while stopped can scar the new asphalt surface. Also try not to park in the exact same spot every day. As asphalt hardens and ages, it becomes less likely to depress or scar. Its inherent flexibility allows rough areas to heal themselves over time.

If I do not topsoil the edges of my pavement, what can happen?

Installing topsoil and seeding along the edges of your driveway is very important. Doing this prevents the edges from cracking and weeds from growing along and under your driveway.

Is my driveway designed to accommodate heavy trucks?

Most driveways are not designed to withhold heavy trucks or excessive weight. Placing heavy vehicles or other items on your new pavement may cause depressions on your surface.

Will gas or oil leave a mark on my asphalt?

It is very important to avoid spills from oil, gasoline, power steering or transmission fluids. The chemicals in these products will deteriorate asphalt.

What is the difference between Tar & Chip and Asphalt?

Surface treatment is an asphalt seal application followed by an application of a cover stone. It is applied at a depth generally less than 1″. The function of surface treatment is to provide an all weather skid resistant surface that reduces the infiltration of water into the pavement. It provides little or no structural strength. Asphalt is a hot applied material consisting of stone glued together with asphalt cement.

What are the general uses for Tar & Chip?

Tar & Chip is used as an economical preventative maintenance tool. Low traffic areas are generally selected for tar and chip as well as both primary and secondary roadways.

What are the common types of Tar & Chip?

Common types of Tar & Chip are:

• Single Seal-An application of asphalt emulsion followed by the installation of a cover stone rolled in place.
• Prime and Seal-Two applications of asphalt emulsion followed by the installation of two layers of cover stone rolled in place.
• Prime and Double Seal-Three applications of asphalt emulsion followed by the installation of three layers of cover stone rolled in place.
• Blot Seal-Four applications of asphalt emulsion followed by the installation of three layers of cover stone and one layer of a blot material rolled in place.

How long will the Tar & Chip surface last?

The life of a structurally sound pavement can be extended 5-7 years with surface treatment. “Structurally Sound” meaning the pavement has only infrequent non-severe deficiencies such as minor cracking or little to no rutting. Tar & Chip follows the contour of the road or driveway and will fail if placed on unstable material.

Is it true or false that in colder climates, asphalt outperforms concrete?

True. In colder climates where there are hard winters, there is no doubt that asphalt is superior to concrete. Concrete surfaces are subject to frost heaves, both expanding and contracting all of which can cause damage and deterioration. Salt used in the winter months can also cause concrete deterioration. Asphalt on the other hand is not affected by the cold and does not deteriorate from salt use.

Is Asphalt environmentally friendly?

Asphalt is America’s most recycled material, with over 100 million tons used each year to rebuild road, parking lots, driveways and highways. In addition, porous asphalt is an ecofriendly option for many paving jobs. Porous asphalt allows water to drain through the asphalt and into the stone bed below. 80% of rainfall infiltrates the surface, helping remedy erosion, retain water for plant life and return water to the natural water table.

Are 50% of the parking surfaces in the United States surfaced with Asphalt Pavement?

90% of the parking areas in the US and surface with asphalt, it is the material of choice for most residential and commercial owners.

Does smooth asphalt really save money on fuel?

Smooth pavement means less fuel consumption. In addition, it also results in less wear and tear on your vehicle. Studies done by the Federal Highway Administration have shown that driving on a smoother surface can reduce fuel consumption somewhere between 4.5 and 5 percent.

Are oil stains and leaf stains difficult to remove from asphalt?

Many will find do it yourself solutions to even the most stubborn problems. Start with a through cleaning and then try using common household cleaners like soap, vinegar or even laundry detergent.