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Marc Chase

Marc Chase is a veteran investigative newspaper reporter and editor of 12 years. Specializing in computer-assisted reporting, he holds a Bachelor of Science in journalism from Southern Illinois University and a Master of Arts in public affairs reporting from the University of Illinois.

Since the late 19th century, the jet black of asphalt has changed the landscape of the world's transportation network. In addition to Interstate, county and municipal highways, asphalt paves countless driveways across the country. Proper curing and sealing ensures a long life for this durable, versatile paving surface.

Asphalt is engineered from stone, sand, gravel and asphalt cement, which is a petroleum product. The cement binds the overall pavement together. The National Asphalt Pavement Association reports that the first asphalt roadways can be traced to 625 B.C. in ancient Babylon.

Professionally laid asphalt driveways require time to solidify before use, all part of the curing process. Newly poured asphalt driveways should sit dormant for three days before supporting vehicles. Though they can be used during this time, asphalt driveways remain somewhat pliable for about a year as the pavement completely cures. An entire year or more should pass before seal coating new driveways as the curing process will never properly finish after sealing is done.

After a year or two, seal coating places a protective barrier atop asphalt drives that locks out corrosive moisture and liquid fuels, protects the surface from ultraviolet rays and rejuvenates the rich black look. Seal coating can be applied with broom-like tools or through professional sprayers. Once applied, seal coating requires 24 to 48 hours of curing time before the surface becomes ready for walking and vehicle traffic. Hardening time depends on temperature and humidity levels.

The best way to ensure a long life for asphalt driveways is repeating the seal coating process every two to five years. This keeps a binding on the surface and locks out elements that corrode aging asphalt. If dents or large cracks form over time, asphalt patching material should be applied before seal coating. Avoiding oil and gasoline leaks and spills also extends the life of asphalt driveways.

Seal coating should never be performed in excessively damp or humid conditions. Best seal coating and curing results come on sunny, dry days with temperatures at 70 degrees F or warmer. High humidity and dampness lengthens curing times, and rain within 24 hours of sealing can ruin the job.

New Asphalt Driveway Cure Time; Print this article; Things You'll Need. Asphalt sealer; Show More. Instructions. 1. Resist sealing your new asphalt...

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