Asphalt driveways are most vulnerable to damage in the first few days after their construction. This article discusses measures that you can take to avoid two of the most common problems of newly laid asphalt driveways.
Surface Distortion
The surface of your new asphalt driveway can become distorted if heavy loads are placed on that driveway before it cures fully. This distortion results because the materials are still very flexible. Any loads can therefore alter the surface of the asphalt permanently. You should avoid placing sharp objects on the driveway. For instance, place the kickstands of motorcycles on blocks. The same should be done for the dolly wheels of trailers. The blocks will distribute the weight of the trailer or motorcycle over a larger area so that the potential for surface distortion is reduced.
You should also be very careful when you are turning a vehicle on the asphalt driveway in case that vehicle has power steering. The surface of the driveway may be scuffed in case you aren't careful when turning that vehicle. Slow down as much as possible so that the effect of the wheels is minimal on the freshly laid asphalt.
Spills
One of the byproducts that is produced when petroleum is distilled is asphalt cement. This byproduct is soluble in fuel or other petroleum products. It is therefore necessary for you to protect your new driveway from being damaged by spills that can dissolve the asphalt cement. Three easy steps can avert such structural or aesthetic damage from spills. First, use an absorbent material to extract any substance, such as engine oil, which spills on your new driveway. Dispose of those absorbent materials in accordance with the laws of your area.
Secondly, you can use a garden hose to clean up the area affected by the spill. The water that you use will dilute the spilt substance to such an extent that it will no longer pose any danger to your driveway. Most of that spill will be washed away by the water.
Thirdly, you can wash the spill off using a brush and a mixture containing a detergent and a degreaser. Make sure that the brush you use doesn't have metallic bristles. Scrub the area thoroughly before you rinse it off with clean water.
The measures above may be sufficient to keep your asphalt driveway intact as it cures. Contact the contractor who laid the driveway in case you notice serious defects, such as heaving. That professional will inspect the affected part and institute corrective measures before the driveway cures with that defect.