When you’re scheduling asphalt work for your driveway or parking lot in Fort Wayne, IN, it’s natural to wonder whether you need to be home during the project. Maybe you’re trying to work remotely from your home near Foster Park, or maybe you’re coordinating a busy family schedule around Jefferson Pointe shopping trips and school pickups from Snider High.
Either way, timing matters.
At Asphalt Care Inc., we often get this question from customers around neighborhoods like Aboite Township and the ’05 near Lakeside Park. And, the answer depends on many reasons. Let’s break it down so you can make the best decision for your situation.
Key Takeaways
- Asphalt installation can be uncomfortable to stay through due to strong smells, loud noise, and safety concerns.
- Humid fall weather in Fort Wayne can make asphalt odors linger longer, especially near low-lying or wooded areas.
- Driveway access will be blocked during and after work, which can disrupt daily routines in many neighborhoods.
- Staying home is manageable with smart planning like parking elsewhere, closing windows, and setting family expectations.
Why It Might Be Best to Stay Away During Asphalt Installation
In our experience across Fort Wayne neighborhoods, it’s often easier for homeowners to step away during asphalt installation. Here’s what we’ve seen happen when folks try to stick around while the work is underway.
Strong Odors from Hot Asphalt Can Be Unpleasant
Asphalt installation involves heating materials to high temperatures, which produces a strong odor that some people find overwhelming.
In Fort Wayne’s often humid fall weather—especially around October when temperatures hover in the mid-60s—the smell can linger longer, especially in low-lying areas near the St. Marys River or in wooded neighborhoods like Woodhurst.
If you or your family are sensitive to smells, or if you have young children or elderly residents at home, it’s more comfortable to step out for the day.
Noise Levels Can Disrupt Your Routine
Asphalt paving equipment is loud. Between the dump trucks, rollers, and compactors, it’s not the kind of background noise you can ignore while on a Zoom call or trying to get your toddler down for a nap.
If you’re living near North Anthony Boulevard or off Coldwater Road, where homes are a bit closer together, the echo and intensity of the machinery can be especially disruptive.
If you work from home or just need a peaceful space during the day, you may want to plan to be away.
Driveway Access Will Be Blocked During and After Installation
One of the most practical reasons to leave is simple: you won’t be able to use your driveway during installation and curing.
In neighborhoods like Pine Valley or Arlington Park, where garages are accessed from the front, that means no in-and-out traffic. Asphalt needs time to cure—sometimes 24 to 48 hours, depending on the temperature and humidity.
If you’re parked in, you’re staying in. If you’re out, you’ll need to stay out. It’s easier to avoid this headache by making plans to be away until the work is done and the surface is usable again.
Safety Hazards Are a Real Concern
Asphalt work zones are active construction areas. There’s hot material, heavy equipment, and workers moving around quickly. We’ve seen curious kids and even pets wander too close in suburban neighborhoods like Covington Dells or Brookside Estates.
If you stay home, especially with little ones or animals, you’ll need to keep a close eye. For safety’s sake, it’s often better to let the pros do their job without added distractions or risks.
What to Do If You Need to Be Home During Asphalt Work
Staying home during asphalt work isn’t ideal, but we get that sometimes it’s necessary—especially for folks juggling remote work, school pickups, or pets at home.
Here’s what to do to keep things running smoothly while we work.
Park Your Vehicle on a Side Street or Nearby Lot
Before we start the job, make sure your car is out of the way.
In areas like Southwood Park or Forest Park, where street parking is tight, this can take a little planning. We recommend parking at the end of the block or even asking a neighbor if you can use their driveway temporarily.
This prevents you from getting blocked in and keeps our crew moving efficiently.
Use a Back Entrance or Side Path to Avoid the Work Zone
If you’re in neighborhoods with alley access—like near downtown Fort Wayne or around Wells Street—you may be able to get in and out using a back entrance.
Otherwise, consider mapping out a temporary walking path along the side yard or through a gate. Let us know ahead of time, and we’ll help make sure it stays clear and safe for foot traffic during work hours.
Keep Windows Closed to Minimize Odors and Dust
With heavy equipment moving around and asphalt being laid, there will be some dust and odor—even in cooler fall months. We recommend keeping windows shut, especially if you’re in tree-heavy areas like Wildwood Park, where airflow can cause smells to linger inside.
This helps maintain air quality and keeps your home a bit quieter during the project.
Set Expectations with Family Members or Roommates
If you’re sharing your home with others—whether you’re in a single-family home in Glenwood Park or a duplex near IPFW—it’s smart to give everyone a heads-up. That way, no one’s surprised when they can’t use the front door or pull into the driveway.
Setting expectations avoids last-minute stress and keeps everyone on the same page.
Let Us Handle the Hard Work—You Just Enjoy the Results
At Asphalt Care Inc., we’ve helped homeowners across neighborhoods like Lincoln Village, Blackhawk, and Northcrest navigate paving projects with minimal stress. Whether you choose to stay home or head out during the work, we’ll coordinate with you to make it as smooth and convenient as possible.
Need your driveway resurfaced or repaved? Let’s talk. Schedule a free estimate or give us a call to learn more about our asphalt services in Fort Wayne.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I schedule asphalt installation during the winter in Fort Wayne?
Winter temperatures in Fort Wayne are too cold for proper asphalt curing, so we schedule all paving jobs between April and October for quality and long-term durability.
How long does a new asphalt driveway typically last in Fort Wayne?
A properly installed and maintained asphalt driveway usually lasts 15 to 20 years. We offer sealcoating, patching, and regular maintenance to help extend its lifespan and prevent early damage.
Do I need to get a permit for asphalt work on my property?
If your project affects sidewalks, curbs, or public streets, a permit may be required. We handle all city coordination and permitting as part of our full-service paving process.
Can you replace my entire driveway if it’s beyond repair?
Yes, we provide full driveway replacement services, including removal, grading, base preparation, and complete asphalt installation for homeowners needing a fresh start due to severe damage or aging.
