Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for Paving
How long should I stay off my new asphalt driveway/area?
We recommend a minimum of 48 hours before parking sometimes longer depending on temperatures. Please keep in mind as well that it will remain soft and pliable until fully cured which could take 6-12 months.
Why can I see tire marks/ scuffing in my new asphalt even after waiting 48 hours to drive on it? Are they permanent?
Tire Scuffmarks are caused when your vehicle is sitting still, and your turning the steering wheel. You will notice this to happen when it is hot out or during the curing time of the asphalt. Overtime this will become less and less noticeable.
Do I need to be home when they come to pave my driveway?
No, you do not need to be home we just need the driveway to be clear, and we will also need to get some form of payment before the work is completed so please let us know if you do not plan to be home.
Can I pay with a credit/debit card?
Yes, we will except a credit/debit card payment over the phone Visa, MasterCard or Discover. Additional processing fees will apply.
Will resurfacing my driveway keep grass from growing back into my driveway?
Resurface will not stop grass from growing in the asphalt or along the edges. It is the homeowner responsibility to apply Round-up to areas to kill the vegetation/grass area. Vegetation/grass can grow through asphalt as asphalt is a porous surface.
Will my existing driveway and grass get damaged when I’m adding new paved areas to it?
Any proposed new area of asphalt installed may require So. Md Paving to bring equipment onto existing asphalt or ground. Southern Maryland Paving is not liable for damage that may be caused by equipment moving on existing asphalt or 8’ around proposed area. We will do our best to prevent scuffing or disturbing ground. If disturbing existing yard we will rake out to the best ability.
What should I do to prevent the edges of my asphalt driveway from breaking/crumbling since there is a drop to my yard?
So. Md. Paving strongly recommends that you build up the edges to the final surface asphalt or at minimal 1” below with seeded topsoil or rock for supporting edges from crumbling and cracking. If edged are not supported this WILL VOID WARRANTY if cracking accrues.
Why does my driveway look smoother in some areas than others?
This would be due to the makeup of the asphalt such as the aggerate, sand and liquid asphalt in each batch made. Areas may look different than others due to the area being hand worked or machine worked. All areas will blend over time, if this is a concern you have reach to our office and we can schedule an onsite evaluation to discuss.
What happens if I notice a crack in my driveway while under warranty?
The most common questions are based on cracks, if cracks should develop, it is important to differentiate between the types of cracks. The most common type of crack is a hairline crack. If you have a hairline crack in the surface, it does not require any corrective action. If the hairline crack expands to ¼” wide by ¼” deep within the first year, we will treat it with liquid crack filler at no charge. Cracks developing from tree roots cannot be avoided, as trees grow so does the root system. This type of crack will not be covered under warranty. Cracks that may develop along open edges of asphalt can be avoided by properly back filling edges with topsoil, gravel or landscaping mulch. This type of crack will not be covered under our warranty; therefore, it is up to the homeowner to carry out these precautions.
When should I sealcoat my driveway for the first time?
We recommend waiting 6-12 months after asphalt is installed and depending on season installed. We recommend that you seal your new investment to protect it from weather and unforeseen spills of chemicals.
Revised 1/2019