If you’ve recently had a new driveway poured or resurfaced here in Jacksonville, you’re probably wondering when it’s safe to pull your car back in. It’s a smart question—and one we get all the time. The answer depends on many factors.
Whether you’re near San Marco, Ortega, or out in Mandarin, waiting the right amount of time can mean the difference between a smooth, long-lasting driveway and one riddled with premature cracks and dents.
Below, we break down how long you should wait before driving on different types of new driveway work in Jacksonville.
Key Takeaways
- Jacksonville’s heat, humidity, and sandy soil make it important to wait before driving on any new driveway.
- Concrete driveways need seven days, and asphalt driveways need at least three days before handling vehicle traffic.
- Sealcoated surfaces need two full days to dry, especially in shady areas or during Jacksonville’s rainy season.
- A local expert like Vallencourt Inc. helps ensure your driveway cures right and lasts for many years.
After Fresh Concrete Driveway Installation
Concrete driveways are popular in neighborhoods like Riverside and Southside, where homeowners appreciate their clean look and long life. But patience is key after installation. In Jacksonville’s humid and often rainy climate, it typically needs at least 7 days before it can support the weight of a car.
That’s because it cures through a chemical process called hydration, and excess moisture in the air can slow that down. Trying to drive on it too early—especially during a typical Jacksonville summer thunderstorm—can cause surface scaling or tire marks that never go away.
Walking on it? You’re usually safe after 24–48 hours, but driving?
Give it that full week, minimum.
After Asphalt Driveway Paving
Asphalt is a common choice in Westside Jacksonville and around Arlington for its faster installation time and lower initial cost. That said, it stays softer longer than concrete, especially with the high temps we see in places like Oceanway and Northside.
We generally recommend waiting 72 hours before driving on new asphalt. But even after that, be cautious. During Jacksonville’s hot summer months, when surface temps can reach over 120°F, it can remain soft for weeks.
Avoid parking in the same spot for long periods, especially if you drive a heavier vehicle or an SUV. Shifting your parking spot a bit each day can help prevent surface indentations while it fully sets, which can take up to 30 days.
After Driveway Resurfacing or Sealcoating
Resurfacing and sealcoating are common maintenance steps for older driveways, especially in areas like Springfield, where homes have vintage character and need some modern upkeep. While these treatments don’t go as deep as full replacement, they still require careful timing.
For sealcoating in particular, you should wait at least 48 hours before driving on it. Jacksonville’s afternoon showers and high humidity can interfere with drying times, especially during the late summer rainy season.
If you’re in neighborhoods like Deerwood or Baymeadows, where tree cover might limit sunlight, give it an extra day just to be safe. Walking is usually okay after 24 hours, but keep vehicles off until it’s fully cured to avoid scuffing or peeling.
After Brick Paver Installation
Brick paver driveways are growing in popularity around Avondale and the Intracoastal West, where homeowners want that high-end curb appeal. These projects require more than just laying bricks. You need time for the sand base and polymeric sand joints to settle and harden.
In Jacksonville, we recommend waiting about 3–5 days before driving on newly installed pavers. The humid air can slow the curing of the jointing sand, especially if you’re near the St. Johns River or close to marshy areas.
Parking too soon can cause shifting or uneven settling, which is costly to fix later. A good driveway company will often schedule the final compaction and sealing at the end of this window to make sure everything stays locked in place.
After Gravel Driveway Installation
While less common in urban parts of Jacksonville, gravel driveways are still used in rural and semi-rural areas like Baldwin and parts of North Jacksonville. They don’t need curing time like asphalt or concrete, but they do need time to compact naturally.
You can technically drive on them right away, but we usually advise customers to wait 24–48 hours to allow the initial layer to settle, especially if there’s been rain.
If you’re in areas with looser sandy soil, like near the Jacksonville-Baldwin Rail Trail, early driving can lead to rutting or uneven compaction. Using a vehicle with wide tires and driving slowly can help minimize that risk early on.
Don’t Risk Damaging Your New Driveway
You’ve just invested in your property. Don’t let impatience shorten the life of your new driveway. At Vallencourt Inc., we help Jacksonville homeowners get the best results by providing expert asphalt installation and clear guidance on proper curing times.
Whether you’re in Ortega Forest or out by the beaches, we know how local weather, soil, and traffic affect your driveway’s performance. If you’re unsure whether your driveway is ready for vehicle traffic, we’re happy to take a look or walk you through it.
Need help with a new driveway or follow-up maintenance?
Contact us today for a quote or to schedule your service. Let’s make sure your driveway stays strong and smooth for years to come.
