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Driveways should be sloped with a minimum 2% slope—anything lower will cause precipitation and runoff to collect. A 2% slope is the equivalent of a 2-foot rise over 100 feet. One quick way to check the integrity of your driveway’s slope: no more than four inches of water should collect on the surface longer than 15 minutes after rain.

Whether you should resurface or replace your asphalt driveway heavily depends on its condition. If the foundation is solid and the damage is minor, resurfacing is your best bet because it’s more affordable and faster than replacing the driveway. But if your driveway has foundational problems and/or severe damage, like large, deep cracks and potholes, then it makes more sense to replace it. 

On average, asphalt dries within 24 to 72 hours, meaning it’s solid enough for light traffic—walking and careful driving. Full curing—when asphalt reaches peak strength—can take anywhere from three months to a year. During that time, heavy loads and sharp objects can leave marks. Weather, asphalt mix, and thickness all affect how quickly it dries and cures. If you want your asphalt to last, treat it gently until it’s fully cured. For the best results, check with a professional asphalt contractor for their advice.

Since it has a smoother surface using a mixture of finer rock and sand, 41A tends to be the best asphalt grade for a driveway, especially for residential driveways. Other options are available, but more homeowners choose 41A for a smoother asphalt driveway. Talk with your asphalt driveway professional for recommendations of the best grade for your specific driveway.