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Give your driveway at least 24 to 48 hours to dry. After 72 hours, you can walk or park on it, but tread lightly. It might look solid, but it’s still soft and can be easily damaged. It can take 30 days to a year for an asphalt driveway to fully cure, so avoid parking extremely heavy vehicles on it. For the best results, always check with your contractor for their advice. Different mixes and weather conditions can affect curing times, so it’s worth waiting longer if it means a driveway that lasts.

Asphalt is made of aggregate materials (sand, rocks, and gravel) and bitumen, a viscous, petroleum-based, waterproof substance. These materials are mixed together at extremely high temperatures to form asphalt.

In most cases, you don’t need a permit to repave your driveway, although some exceptions exist. If you’re widening your driveway and plan on widening the apron as well, you’ll usually need a permit from the Department of Transportation in your area. This permit costs between $50 and $300 in most cases. Most municipalities will also require a certified and insured contractor do the work relating to the apron and curb cut. You can contact your building department or ask your paving company if you need a permit. Your driveway professional will usually pull the permit for you.

The decision to repair or replace your driveway depends on the extent of the damage. If your driveway has a few small cracks, a simple repair will do the trick. If you see larger cracks and potholes, it may be time to consider resurfacing or replacement. Resurfacing is a great option if more than 25% of the surface is damaged, but if the damage is extensive—deep cracks or significant sinking—it’s best to replace the driveway entirely. A new driveway, with proper care, can last decades while patching or resurfacing might only hold up for a few years before needing more attention.