You’re driveway is looking worn, rough and shabby.  What can you do to make it look better?  Resurfaced, repaired or completely ripped up and redone?  Asphalt paving may be the answer.  Not only is it cheaper than concrete, but because asphalt is flexible, it is less apt to “heave” and crack from the elements.  Asphalt is basically a cooked liquid; it can expand and contract with the weather. Asphalt can withstand temperature fluctuations as it has the ability to shift and adjust to outdoor elements.  It can be re-layered and there are decorative options.   Asphalt paving will need to be resealed consistently if it is to last. 

Asphalt is made from stone aggregate which is small rocks, fine sand and asphalt cement. Asphalt cement turns into a liquid when hot which “glues” it all together. The asphalt is heated to over 300 degrees F to make it liquid. Contractors need to work fast so it doesn’t solidify. The mixture pours out as a thick, black tar. You may have heard the term “blacktop” when referring to asphalt. Because it has a dark surface, it will absorb the heat in the summer, but it will also melt the snow quicker in the winter.

As mentioned above, asphalt can actually be stamped to look like brick or cobblestone.  It can come in different colors and designs.  The material is less expensive than concrete and is quicker to install reducing labor costs.   Asphalt paving is also very durable.  It can withstand heavy loads and multiple vehicles.  

Finding a reputable installer is important.  Seek referrals and ask to see projects that are several years old that have withstood the elements.  Check references before going forward with the job.  Beware of contractors who find you, rather you finding them.  Also be wary of contractors who are “traveling” asphalt pavers.  You should seek out permanent, local contractors.  Don’t let the contractor use left over asphalt from another job.

The company you hire will need to know the size of the job, the steepness or grade of the driveway, and any obstacles—such as stairs, curbs, ramps, etc--they’ll need to work around. The asphalt company will bring special equipment, machinery and training to the job.

Asphalt can be applied directly over existing asphalt but if there was concrete it will need to be removed. If they’re removing concrete or another surface, they will need to excavate the area to the required depth and make sure the soil is packed down. A gravel base of about 8 inches will need to be added. About two to three inches of the hot liquid asphalt paving will be applied. It’s best to lay hot liquid asphalt on a warmer day--70 degrees or warmer—although contractors can work with temps as low as 40 degrees only if he’s laying 2 inches or more of asphalt. Wind will also be a consideration as well as too much moisture. Both may be factors in delaying a job. When it’s time to actually lay the asphalt, it can take as little as 20 minutes to pave the whole driveway. The asphalt will then need to be compacted and time to harden. Most contractors would prefer you wait 24 hours before driving on your new driveway, but some will even ask to wait for it to dry for two days. Wait about 6 months before sealing the asphalt to allow for proper curing.

As mentioned earlier in this article, asphalt will need occasional resealing or re-layering. Unfortunately no driveway is crack resistant. Asphalt driveways will eventually crack, get damaged by the sun’s harmful rays and be prone to oil spills and other stains. Resealing can prolong the lifespan of your asphalt paving. It’s recommended to reseal every 5 years.

Cleaning your asphalt driveway is fairly simple. Just use dish soap, water and a scrub broom. If the surface starts to crumble as you’re cleaning, deterioration has already taken place. Best to call a contractor.