How To Build An Asphalt Driveway A Step By Step Guide

How to Build an Asphalt Driveway: A Step-by-Step Guide

Asphalt is a popular choice for driveways because it is durable, flexible, and easy to maintain. Asphalt can also withstand extreme temperatures and weather conditions, making it suitable for cold climates. However, installing an asphalt driveway is not a simple DIY project. It requires proper planning, preparation, and professional equipment. Here are the steps to build an asphalt driveway that will last for years.

Step 1: Demolition

If you have an existing driveway, regardless of its material, it must be demolished before new installation can begin. You can hire a contractor to do this for you, or you can rent a compact loader or a jackhammer to break up and remove the old driveway. You will also need a dump truck or a trailer to haul away the debris. Make sure to dispose of the old driveway material properly, following the local regulations and recycling options ¹.

Step 2: Grading

The biggest source of damage to asphalt driveways is water, which can cause cracking, heaving, and even potholes. To prevent water from pooling on or under the driveway, you need to grade the surface properly. Grading means leveling and sloping the ground to ensure proper drainage. You can use a skid steer or a tractor with a box blade to grade the surface. You should aim for a 2 percent cross-slope, which means that the driveway should drop 2 inches for every 100 feet of length ². You should also pitch the driveway away from the house and any other structures, such as a garage or a shed.

Step 3: Subbase

Next, you will need to install and compact a durable, long-lasting, aggregate subbase. The subbase is the layer of crushed stone or recycled concrete and asphalt that supports the asphalt layer. The subbase provides stability, strength, and drainage for the driveway. You can order the subbase material from a local supplier, or you can use the existing soil if it is well-drained and free of organic matter. The subbase should be at least 4 inches thick for well-drained soils, or 8 inches thick for poor-draining soils ². You should spread the subbase material evenly over the graded surface, and then compact it using a steel-wheeled roller and a vibrating plate compactor. You should make several passes over the subbase until it is firm and solid.

Step 4: Binder

Before laying the asphalt layer, you will need to apply a binder layer over the subbase. The binder layer is a coarse asphalt mix that binds the subbase and the asphalt layer together. The binder layer also provides additional strength and flexibility for the driveway. You can order the binder mix from a local asphalt plant, or you can have a contractor deliver and install it for you. The binder layer should be about 2 inches thick, and it should be compacted using the same equipment as the subbase ¹.

Step 5: New Asphalt

The final step is to install the new asphalt layer over the binder layer. The asphalt layer is the smooth, black surface that you see on the driveway. The asphalt layer is made of a hot mix of liquid asphalt and stone aggregate, sometimes with additives that improve its performance. The asphalt mix is delivered by a truck and poured into an adjustable-width paving machine, which spreads and levels the mix over the binder layer. The asphalt layer should be about 2 inches thick, or more if the subbase is thin ². The asphalt layer should be compacted and smoothed using a steel-wheeled roller and a vibrating plate compactor. You should make several passes over the asphalt layer until it is dense and uniform.

Step 6: Curing

After the asphalt layer is installed, you will need to let it cure before using the driveway. Curing means letting the asphalt harden and cool down to its final state. The curing time depends on the weather and the thickness of the asphalt layer, but it usually takes about 24 hours. During the curing period, you should avoid driving or walking on the driveway, or placing any heavy objects on it. You should also keep the driveway clean and dry, and avoid any spills or stains. After the curing period, you can enjoy your new asphalt driveway for years to come.

Tips and Tricks

To extend the lifespan of your asphalt driveway, you should seal it every 2 to 5 years, depending on the climate and the traffic. Sealing protects the asphalt from water, UV rays, oil, and chemicals, and also restores its appearance. You can seal the driveway yourself using a sealcoat product and a squeegee, or you can hire a professional to do it for you ³.
To repair minor cracks and divots in your asphalt driveway, you can use a crack filler or a patching compound, which are available at most hardware stores. You should clean the crack or divot with a wire brush and a broom, and then apply the filler or the compound according to the instructions. You should also seal the repaired area to prevent further damage ³.
To prevent damage to your asphalt driveway, you should avoid using sharp objects, such as snowplows, ice choppers, and metal shovels, on the surface. You should also avoid using de-icing products, such as salt, which can corrode the asphalt. Instead, you should use sand or kitty litter to provide traction and melt the ice. You should also avoid parking heavy vehicles, such as RVs or trailers, on the driveway, or at least use plywood or mats to distribute the weight ³.

Conclusion

Building an asphalt driveway is a major project that requires careful planning, preparation, and professional equipment. However, if done correctly, an asphalt driveway can provide you with a smooth, durable, and attractive surface for your home. By following the steps and tips in this guide, you can build an asphalt driveway that will last for years.