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Asphalt Driveway Paving

 

Asphalt Driveway Paving: Benefits, Costs, and Tips

Asphalt is one of the most popular materials for driveway paving, especially in areas with cold and snowy climates. Asphalt driveways are durable, easy to maintain, and relatively affordable compared to other options like concrete or pavers. But how do you install an asphalt driveway? What are the pros and cons of asphalt paving? And how much does it cost to pave an asphalt driveway? In this article, we will answer these questions and provide some useful tips for homeowners who are considering asphalt driveway paving.

What Is Asphalt Driveway Paving?

Asphalt driveway paving is the process of laying a layer of hot mix asphalt over a prepared base of gravel or crushed stone. Hot mix asphalt is a mixture of liquid asphalt (a by-product of crude oil refining) and stone aggregate, sometimes with additives that improve its strength, flexibility, and water resistance. The asphalt is heated to over 300°F to liquefy it, and then spread and compacted using specialized machinery. The asphalt hardens as it cools down, forming a smooth and solid surface.

Asphalt driveway paving can be done on an existing driveway, as long as it is in good condition and not severely cracked or crumbling. Alternatively, the old driveway can be removed and replaced with a new asphalt layer. Asphalt driveway paving can also be done on a new area that has been graded and sloped for proper drainage.

What Are the Benefits of Asphalt Driveway Paving?

Asphalt driveway paving has many benefits for homeowners, such as:

  • Increased home value: A well-installed and maintained asphalt driveway can enhance the curb appeal and resale value of your home.
  • Durability: Asphalt is more flexible than concrete and thus less prone to cracking due to temperature changes or ground movements. Asphalt can also withstand harsh weather conditions, such as snow, ice, salt, and sun exposure.
  • Aesthetics: Asphalt has a clean and uniform look that can complement any style of home. Asphalt can also be colored or stamped to create different textures and patterns.
  • Easy repair and maintenance: Asphalt driveways are easy to repair if they develop small cracks or divots. You can use a driveway sealant or crack filler to patch up the damaged areas. Asphalt driveways also require minimal maintenance, such as sweeping, cleaning, and sealing every few years.
  • Resistance to low temperatures: Asphalt is less affected by freezing and thawing cycles than concrete, which can crack under the strains of expansion and contraction. Asphalt also retains heat better than concrete, which helps melt snow and ice faster.

What Are the Costs of Asphalt Driveway Paving?

The cost of asphalt driveway paving depends on several factors, such as:

  • The size of the driveway: The bigger the driveway, the more asphalt material and labor are needed. The average cost of asphalt paving is $7 to $13 per square foot, including materials and installation. For a typical driveway measuring about 600 square feet, you can expect to pay $4,200 to $7,800.
  • The type of asphalt: There are different types of asphalt available for driveway paving, such as hot mix, warm mix, cold mix, recycled, porous, or permeable. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages in terms of performance, environmental impact, and cost. For example, hot mix asphalt is the most common and durable type, but it also requires high temperatures and specialized equipment. Recycled asphalt is cheaper and more eco-friendly, but it may not last as long or look as good as new asphalt.
  • The location of the driveway: The location of the installation can affect the cost of the project due to travel fees, local fuel costs, average cost of living, and local labor rates. The cost of asphalt paving can vary significantly depending on the region or state where you live.
  • The condition of the base: The base is the foundation of your driveway, and it needs to be stable, level, and well-drained. If your existing base is inadequate or damaged, you may need to pay extra for excavation, grading, sloping, or subbase repair. The quality of the base also determines the thickness of the asphalt layer you need. A thicker layer means more material and higher cost.
  • The complexity of the project: The complexity of the project refers to any variables that complicate the installation process, such as curves, hills, slopes, drainage issues

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