Lay the driveway on a warm dry day.
New driveways are an investment that many homeowners and businesses make because they add a lot of curb appeal. Here are some tips that will give your customers the best looking and longest lasting product.
1. Proper Drainage
If too much water gets under or lies on the driveway it will cause it to crack sooner and more often than if you keep water away from it. To keep the rain from settling in, when you are grading, slope away from the driveway to allow the water to flow off. For keeping water away underneath driveways, install French drains that can intercept and redirect the water. Also, make sure there are no downspouts near the edges. All of these tips will ensure water does not sit under or on top of the driveway, causing it to deteriorate quickly.
2. Lay Asphalt On Warm, Dry Days
Asphalt has to be placed while it is hot and on surfaces that are dry according to the National Asphalt Pavement Association. The outside temperature that it needs to be will depend on the thickness of the asphalt as well as the temperature of the ground. Also, make sure that the ground is dry and if it isn’t, you’ll want to reschedule for a better day. Be sure to tell your customer to stay off the new driveway until it’s completely cool and hardens. Stress the fact that when the blacktop is hot, it’s more susceptible to damage. The time frame they need to stay off the driveway will depend on the weather conditions because the hotter the outside temperature, the longer it will take to cool off.
3. Use Full Depth Asphalt
Driveways that use full depth asphalt are made of all asphalt, and, therefore, do not have a different base. This is designed to keep water out and give the driveway a combination of strength and flexibility. Ultimately this combination results in a driveway that is durable and lasts longer. The National Asphalt Paving Association states that these types of driveways provide the best stability in various climates and recommends a thickness of 5-6 inches. This type of driveway is put down in layers to achieve the best look and to make sure it is compacted thoroughly. If you are using stone as the base, make sure it is substantial and compacted well. According to Asphalt Magazine, “compaction is critical, including, the edges and joints.” It will help prevent a lot of settlement and prevent cracking.
Narrow driveways, water damage, and lack of compaction cause a lot of cracks.
4. Reinforce The importance Of Maintenance
Make sure to emphasize that drains must be periodically checked to ensure they are in good working order. Stress regular crack sealing so that water and other debris does not get inside causing further damage the driveway.
If you are looking for a convenient and affordable way to get your continuing education requirements in construction, then check out our easy to access online courses here. We offer a variety of approved courses for remodelers, contractors, builders, and roofers.