Asphalt is one of the most popular paving choices for parking lots due to its affordability, weather resistance, and easily maintained appearance. When installing or re-surfacing an asphalt lot, business owners must consider the timeline at hand. Closing off parking areas can deter customers and clients, leading to reduced business profits. With this in mind, it's imperative that a company installs asphalt paving efficiently and logically by knowing what to expect. 

How Long Does It Take To Cure and Dry?

Asphalt paving is installed quickly, but it takes a considerable amount of time to fully dry and cure. It can take more than six months to cure, depending on the outdoor climate and traffic levels. 

However, you don't have to wait six months before allowing people to drive and park near your business. Most paving contractors recommend letting your asphalt dry for about 48 to 72 hours before re-opening the lot to the public. 

The new lot material can be driven on at this point, but it will be softer and more pliable than asphalt that has had time to set. After 30 days, your lot should be cured enough to be sealed, which will protect and preserve your asphalt long-term. 

What Can Impact the Timeline?

The weather has the greatest impact on asphalt's ability to cure and dry over time. Higher humidity levels indicate there is a lot of moisture in the air, which naturally slows the drying process. 

Regular rainfall (and snowfall) can also impede the timeline, by causing more moisture to permeate the asphalt surface. In contrast, lots of sunlight and hotter temperatures cause moisture to evaporate, meaning asphalt is usually able to dry quicker in this type of weather.

If you need new asphalt paving in your parking lot, reach out to the experts at Lyons & Hohl Paving, Inc. in East Earl, PA. This paving contractor has 29 years of experience updating, expanding, and paving lots for clients. They use heavy-duty grading and paving equipment and can answer any questions you have about their paving specifications, grading, and application process. Call (717) 355-9219 to schedule an estimate or visit their website to learn more about their commercial service.