There’s nothing like the smooth, polished look of a brand-new asphalt driveway – it’s a game-changer for curb appeal and functionality!

Since 1976, J&W Asphalt has laid the groundwork for Twin Cities residents, combining quality craftsmanship with unmatched expertise. But a beautiful driveway needs care to stay that way. That’s why we’ve put together essential tips to keep it pristine.

With a little upkeep, your asphalt will stand strong, stay sleek, and withstand everything - whether it’s daily traffic or Minnesota’s unpredictable weather extremes.

Want to know the secrets to making your driveway last? 

Keep reading for expert tips to protect your investment and keep it looking flawless for years to come!

Handle Your New Driveway With Care  

New asphalt needs time to settle, especially during warm weather. Keep these tips in mind right after installation! 

  • Don’t drive on it for the first 5 days. Once the initial waiting period ends, you can drive directly into your garage. 

  • Avoid parking on it for 12 days. Park on the street until your asphalt has had enough time to cure properly.  

Watch the Weather

Hot weather can make freshly-paved asphalt soft, so focus on preventing common causes of damage.  

  • Always move your car when turning your wheels – no stationary turning, please!  

  • Prevent indentations from trailer hitches, furniture legs, car jacks, and even high heels.

  • If you’re parking heavy equipment like RVs, trailers, or dumpsters, put down plywood to distribute the weight evenly.  

Stay Away From the Edges  

Your driveway’s edges are its “fragile zones,” and driving too close to them can cause cracking. Rainy days can add to the risk, as accumulated water beneath the edges compromises stability. 

Steer clear, and your driveway will thank you.  

Protect Your Asphalt for the Long Haul  

Asphalt driveways are built to endure, but a little TLC will keep them in beautiful shape along the way.  

  • Be mindful of long-term damage. Some cracking is normal, especially in areas prone to winter frost. Just fill in any frost cracks as they appear, and your driveway will remain as strong as the day it was installed.  

  • Avoid spilling gasoline, diesel, or oil on your driveway, as they’ll erode the surface over time. Vehicles with leaks should never be parked directly on the asphalt.  

  • eep stones, debris, or sharp objects off the surface. They can cause unsightly indentations, especially in warmer temperatures.  

Seal in the Protection

Seal coating is more than a protective layer – it’s your driveway’s secret to longevity. 

Here’s the game plan:

  • Apply the first coat 5-7 years after installation or when the top layer starts to show loose sand grains.

  • Reseal every 3 years (but don’t overdo it – too much sealant can lead to peeling).

Seal coating extends the life of asphalt and keeps it looking fresh and ready to use.

Heavy Loads? Hard Pass  

Your driveway is tough, but even the sturdiest asphalt has its limits. 

Heavy vehicles, like delivery trucks or construction equipment, are best left on the street. For everyday wear and tear, crack filling is a great way to handle frost-induced cracking when it inevitably appears in colder climates.  

Grass Is NOT Greener on the Driveway  

Stray grass creeping through your driveway’s edges isn’t just unsightly – it’s invasive. 

Using a grass killer or routine power edging keeps the greens where they belong and prevents them from ruining your clean asphalt lines.

J&W Asphalt: Your Driveway’s Next Chapter  

At J&W Asphalt, we’ve spent nearly five decades paving the way to perfection. But our job doesn’t stop at installation – we’re your trusted partner for everything asphalt. 

From parking lot paving to asphalt repairs, we’re here for the long haul.

Do you have questions about crack filling or sealcoating? Call us at 952-894-9078 or connect with us online. With J&W Asphalt, your driveway is always in expert hands.