Caring for New Asphalt During the First Year

The first 72 hours

Keep all traffic off for at least 24 hours, longer in hot weather. Asphalt cools to walkable quickly but stays soft under vehicle weight.

The first 30 days

Don't park in the same spot repeatedly, avoid turning the steering wheel while stopped, and keep motorcycle and trailer jack stands off the surface without a plywood pad underneath.

The first summer

On very hot days new asphalt will soften slightly. That's normal and it re-hardens overnight. Just be mindful of point loads.

Edges

The outside edges are the most vulnerable part of any driveway. Backfill them with topsoil and grass, and keep heavy vehicles from riding over them.

First sealcoat

Wait 6 to 12 months. Sealing a fresh mat too early does more harm than good.