What to Expect Before, During, and After an Asphalt Paving Project


Your Complete Guide to a Smooth, Stress-Free Paving Experience

If you’re preparing for a new asphalt driveway, parking lot, or walkway, you probably have questions—What’s involved? How long does it take? Will I need to prep my property?

At Norfolk Asphalt Paving & Excavation, we understand that every paving job is a big investment, and we want you to feel confident and informed from start to finish. With over 25 years of experience serving homeowners and business owners across Canton, Dedham, Walpole, Norwood, and surrounding areas, we’ve built our reputation on clear communication and top-quality workmanship.


Here’s exactly what you can expect before, during, and after your asphalt paving project.


BEFORE THE PROJECT: PLANNING & PREP

1. Free On-Site Estimate

Every project begins with a free consultation. One of our experienced estimators will visit your property to evaluate the area, answer your questions, and provide a clear, written quote. We’ll look at:

  • The condition of the existing surface (if applicable)
  • Drainage concerns
  • Site access and grading
  • Square footage and material needs

You’ll receive a no-obligation quote that outlines the full scope of work, timeline, and pricing. No hidden fees. No surprises.


2. Scheduling & Permitting

Once you approve the quote, we’ll schedule your project. If your job requires town permits or utility marking (Dig Safe), we’ll handle that for you.

We’ll also give you:

  • Prep instructions (e.g., clear vehicles, mark irrigation lines)
  • Start date & approximate duration
  • Weather-related expectations


3. Site Preparation

For new installations or full replacements, we may need to:

  • Remove old asphalt, gravel, or sod
  • Excavate and grade the base
  • Compact the sub-base
  • Install drainage solutions, if needed

Our crews use professional excavation equipment and always grade for optimal water runoff to avoid pooling or erosion issues.


DURING THE PROJECT: PROFESSIONAL EXECUTION

4. Paving Day

On the day of your project, our experienced crew will arrive on time with all necessary equipment and materials. We’ll:

  • Prepare and grade the final base layer
  • Apply a tack coat (for overlays or repair work)
  • Lay and roll hot-mix asphalt to specified thickness
  • Edge and smooth transitions to walkways, curbs, or aprons
  • Ensure all seams are tight, smooth, and clean

Depending on the size and complexity of the job, most residential driveways are completed in 1–2 days. Larger commercial jobs may require additional time.


5. Safety & Clean-Up

After the last roller pass, we’ll block off the area to allow proper curing and cooling. We clean up all materials, remove excess debris, and leave the site looking clean and professional.


We also inspect every project before closing out to make sure it meets our high standards—and yours.


AFTER THE PROJECT: CARE, CURING & LONGEVITY

6. Curing Time & Initial Use

While asphalt cools quickly, it needs 24–48 hours before it's ready for light vehicle traffic, depending on weather conditions.

  • For driveways: Avoid parking for at least 48 hours
  • For commercial lots: We’ll phase usage to allow proper curing
  • Avoid sharp turns, kickstands, or heavy stationary loads for 5–7 days

7. Ongoing Maintenance Tips

We want your new asphalt surface to last as long as possible. We recommend:

  • Sealcoating after the first full year (then every 3–5 years)
  • Routine cleaning to remove debris, oil, or leaf stains
  • Crack repair early to prevent spreading
  • Avoiding snowplow blades that scrape directly on the surface


8. Warranty & Follow-Up

We stand behind our work. If you ever have a question or notice something unexpected, give us a call. We’re happy to inspect the surface and address concerns.


Why Homeowners & Businesses Trust Norfolk Asphalt
  • 25+ Years of Experience
    Serving Canton, Dedham, Walpole, Westwood, and beyond with pride.

  • Fully Licensed & Insured
    Your property is protected—every step of the way.

  • Transparent Quotes & Professional Crews
    No upsells. No confusion. Just quality workmanship.

  • Paving, Excavation, Drainage & More
    We’re more than just asphalt—we’re your full-site solution.