Asphalt is one of the most commonly used and trusted materials for constructing driveways. If you are considering installing an asphalt driveway in your property, you may be wondering how it is done, how much it costs and how it should be maintained. This guide will provide you with everything you must know regarding having an asphalt driveway installed.
The Asphalt Driveway Installation Process
The process of installing asphalt driveways is time-consuming and laborious. Unless you are properly trained to perform such with the right equipment, it is highly recommended that you hire professional driveway paving contractors to do the job.
The process generally includes the following main steps:
- The area will be surveyed.
- You will be asked to evacuate the area.
- Special machinery and equipment will be used to clear the area of weeds and roots.
- The site is graded and compacted.
- A base material of crushed aggregate will be laid down.
- Once the material settles, the hot asphalt mix is applied.
- Voila! You can now use your newly-installed asphalt driveway after 48 hours.
The Cost of Asphalt Driveway Installation
The cost of installing an asphalt driveway will depend on the following factors:
Size and Shape
The size of your coverage area is the first thing you must consider when planning your budget. Of course, more time, labor and money is required if you have a longer or wider driveway than is usual.
Moreover, if you want your driveway to look curved, arched or rounded instead of just rectangular in shape, the excavation process will be more time-consuming and complicated. And this can increase the total asphalt driveway cost.
The Number of Materials Needed
The amount of asphalt can increase how much you spend, both in the installation and maintenance process. How wide and long your driveway won’t just affect the amount of asphalt but also the base material required for the installation.
Asphalt Supplier
Take time to find the most trustworthy asphalt supplier. Ideally, you must buy from someone who owns and operates their asphalt plant. This will ensure that you will receive high-quality paving materials at a reasonable price.
Asphalt Contractor
Hiring a reputable contractor to handle your asphalt driveway installation is highly advised unless you are skilled and experienced in completing such a project. This should be taken into account when setting your budget because the price of getting professional help is higher than if you choose to do the job on your own. However, most DIY projects can turn out to be costlier and more time-consuming as they are prone to mistakes due to lack of know-how.
Required Equipment
If you only need to repave your existing driveway, minimal tools will be required. But if you need a brand-new driveway, the area must be dug up and excavated. And this means that special equipment and machinery are required to finish the job. These include a compactor and asphalt paving machine.
Sealing
You need to have your driveway professionally sealed within 6 months after it has been installed. Sealing will make your driveway less susceptible to damages, specifically from moisture that may lead to potholes and cracks. After the initial sealing, have it professionally sealed every one to two years. Take this into consideration when setting your budget.
A Word on Maintenance
For your asphalt driveway to last through its entire lifespan, you must adequately maintain it. Once you notice hairline cracks, deal with them immediately so they won’t turn into potholes or large cracks. Have a professional paving contractor repair it quickly.
It is also important for you to adhere to what the contractors recommend, especially immediately after the asphalt pavement installation. If, for instance, the contractors instruct you not to park or drive over the newly paved driveway for a certain number of days, do follow their advice. Failing to follow instructions can result in costly premature damage and repair work.
An asphalt driveway will look great in your landscape. It can boost your property’s outdoor appeal and value as well. But before having an asphalt driveway installed, you must equip yourself with the essential information as well as speak with a reputable asphalt supplier and contractor to ensure project success.
AUTHOR BIO
Ron Shattuck Jr. built Shattuck Paving into a trusted, reputable family business. Ron Jr. learned a lot about the industry and the hard work ethic that Ronald Sr. lived by, and has now followed in his father’s shoes to operate the company and help it grow. Today, Shattuck Paving is more determined than ever to serve their customers’ needs with integrity. No compromises!
