Asphalt is a durable, attractive driveway material. When you schedule paving services, the contractor will let you know how long the driveway will take to harden, or cure, so you can prevent premature damage. In the meantime, here's some general guidance to help prepare you for the installation.

What Affects Asphalt Curing Time?

Walking on the driveway before the initial drying time ends can create damage, such as tire and footprint marks. Placing heavy objects like lawn equipment on the driveway can also result in depressions and scuffs. 

Numerous factors influence how quickly asphalt dries, including rain. Rainwater causes the oil binders in asphalt to rise to the surface, often resulting in cracking and potholes that require repaving. Temperature also influences curing efficiency. Paving contractors recommend scheduling installation when the ambient and ground temperatures are at or slightly above 50 degrees, as excessively cold weather prevents the product from binding and breaks it apart.

When Is It Safe to Drive on a New Driveway? 

While asphalt takes about 12 months to fully cure, it dries enough for foot and vehicle traffic in around 48 to 72 hours.

Wait at least 72 hours to operate a vehicle on the driveway, or longer in the event of rainy or freezing weather. If you schedule installation on a dry, sunny, temperate day and the weather remains optimal, the contractor might let you know it's safe to drive on the driveway after three days. 

Even after this period, it is still safer to park in different areas of the surface each day and keep excessively heavy vehicles off of it for at least a year. Doing so prevents depressions from weight-related stress. 

For superior paving services, rely on PaveCo in Kalispell, MT. Since 2000, the company has provided residents in Flathead County and the surrounding areas with dependable paving solutions. To ensure a quality product, they even make their own asphalt. Call (406) 752-0051 today to request a free estimate, or visit the website for more information.