Asphalt
Question Answer
What is Asphalt? It’s a mixture of recycled materials, or stones and sand, with liquid asphalt cement, a petroleum product. Varying sizes are heated, then mixed, in exact proportions, with asphalt cement that has been liquefied at about 300 degrees. While the mixture is still hot, it is delivered to your driveway and paved on top of a base or subgrade that has already been prepared. Very soon after paving, the mixture cools and hardens and you can park on it normally within a few days. It is also commonly called hot top mix, black top, and macadam.
When can I allow cars back on my paved surface?

Your new asphalt surface can take more than 90 days to cure. The temperature plays a big role in how fast your new pavement will cure. In very hot weather it may take longer. In general, however, you should be able to drive on the surface after 2-4 days if you are careful. However, motorcycle and bicycle kick stands, high heels, boat trailers and sharp objects will penetrate the new asphalt for some time while the asphalt is curing. On hot days you may want to water down your new drive by spraying water over the surface..
What is the average life of a driveway? Under normal use asphalt pavement should last about 10 – 20 years. Besides human caused wear and tear your climate is also a determining factor.
Why do different textures of asphalt appear within the same paved surface? Asphalt is made by combining varying sized stones, sand, gravel and asphalt cement. There will be a variation in the surface texture of the asphalt. This will be noticed among different loads of asphalt as well as the surface of the pavement. In areas wider than approximately 12’ the asphalt will have to be connected. When the asphalt is connected a seam may be visible. This seam is created by the asphalt having to be connected to the previous strip of asphalt. In areas where the asphalt is worked by hand the larger stones will tend to come to the surface while the sand in the mixture sifts downward creating a variation in the surface.
Do I have to be at home the day of scheduled work?

No. Ideally a quick face-to-face morning review, of the work to be done should suffice.
Do I need to do anything special the day of installation?

Please have the garage open and a hose available. All items in the work area like boats, cars, bikes, etc. should be removed prior to our arrival.
How long should I stay off a newly paved surface?

For a typical installation you should be able to walk on your driveway that evening and drive on it within 48-72 hours. Please keep in mind that each job is unique and may require more time to cure (harden) which we will notify you of after the job is completed..

My car left tire print marks and also a circular mark about the size of a paper plate. Are these permanent?

Tire marks are caused when you turn your car’s steering wheel while the car is stationary. If it is a hot day and the asphalt has not completely cured, the surface will get a circular blemish or even show a tire pattern. This is caused by the movement of the fine sand particles in the surface of the asphalt. If this occurs simply tapping the area with your foot or a flat object will often correct the mark. Over time, most of this will disappear but be cautious when turning on your new asphalt surface.

What should I do to help prevent the edges of my driveway from cracking?

We recommend putting topsoil up to the edges of your driveway to prevent the edges from breaking. Parking lots have the advantage of curbs to protect the edges of the drive. If a vehicle goes over the edge of a driveway that is unprotected the edge is sure to break off. The topsoil also prevents erosion from taking place.

What is Streetprint™, where can I get it and what does it cost?

Simply put Streeprint is a system that imprints ordinary asphalt with patterns that mimic the shape of various stone patterns such as brick and slate. After the asphalt is imprinted it can be colored to match your needs. Royal Paving provides this services so be sure to mention it when you call or e-mail us. Click here to learn more.

 

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Sealcoat
Question Answer
What is sealer? Sealcoat is a product that is designed to extend the life of asphalt and increase the aesthetics of the asphalt surface. As asphalt ages, it oxidizes and becomes brittle. It also is prone to erosion from rain, irrigation run-off, and traffic patterns. Sealcoat is designed to protect asphalt from oxidation and act as a wearing course for the asphalt. Additionally, as asphalt ages it turns a dull gray color. Fresh sealcoat will dramatically change the look of asphalt from old, tired and gray to new, fresh and jet-black.
When should sealer be applied? Six months to one year after a new installation, then every two to three years.
Can I seal my on driveway? Yes but it is a labor intensive project. We can recommend supplies and advice.
What will it cost to have a contractor seal it? Cost depends on size and scope of the job. We'll be happy to provide you with consultation and a free estimate.
How long should I stay off my newly sealed surface? A day should be sufficient in most cases. The drying time depends on the temperature outside during sealing and if your driveway/lot is in the sun. When applied sealer appears brown. When dried it is a blackish-blue.
What if it rains? If the sealer is dry it will not affect the driveway.
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Paving Cape Cod and the North Shore since 1986