An asphalt driveway is a popular choice for many homeowners due to its attractive appearance, durability, and affordable cost. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about asphalt driveways, including costs, types, installation, maintenance, and more.
What is an Asphalt Driveway?
An asphalt driveway is made from a mixture of aggregates like stone and sand, along with asphalt cement as the binding agent. The asphalt mixture is applied hot, then compacted and allowed to cool to form a hard, durable surface.
Asphalt driveways are commonly seen in front of homes, allowing access for vehicles from the road to a garage or carport. They provide a smooth, stable surface that holds up well to heavy use and harsh weather conditions.
Key Benefits of Asphalt Driveways:
- Low cost – Asphalt is one of the most affordable driveway materials.
- Easy maintenance – Simple repairs can fix cracks, holes, raveling. Annual sealcoating improves durability.
- Customizable – Choose from various colors and patterns.
- Durable – Withstands weather, traffic, salt, and chemicals. Lasts 15-25 years on average.
- Quick installation – Can be installed in just 1-3 days.
Asphalt Driveway Costs
The cost of an asphalt driveway will depend on several factors:
Asphalt Paving Cost Per Square Foot
On average, asphalt driveways cost $2 – $6 per square foot installed. Most homeowners spend between $2,500 – $6,000 to pave a standard 2-3 car driveway measuring about 1,200-1,500 square feet.
Here’s a breakdown of approximate asphalt paving costs per square foot:
- Basic Asphalt: $2 – $3 per square foot
- Premium Asphalt: $4 – $6 per square foot
- Stained/Colored Asphalt: $5 – $7 per square foot
- Stamped Asphalt: $8 – $12 per square foot
Thicker asphalt with an increased weight per square yard will be more expensive. Likewise, unique designs, patterns, colors, and finishes will add cost.
Factors Affecting Asphalt Driveway Cost
Some key factors impact the overall budget for your driveway:
- Location – Asphalt prices vary regionally due to access to aggregate and asphalt plants. Urban areas are typically more expensive.
- Area Size – The total square footage of your driveway. Bigger areas have higher overall costs.
- Base Preparation – Any excavation, grading, or fill required will add expenses.
- Thickness – More thickness means increased durability. 2″-3″ is typical for driveways.
- Design – Basic asphalt is the least expensive, while stamped patterns, colored finishes, borders, etc. add cost.
- Permits – Some areas require permits for paving, adding fees.
To customize your budget, get quotes from at least 3 reputable asphalt paving contractors in your area.
Types of Asphalt Driveways
There are a few different options when it comes to the look and style of your asphalt driveway:
Basic Asphalt
The most affordable and common type of asphalt driveway consists of a single layer of conventional asphalt pavement. It provides a smooth, black surface that neatly borders grass or landscaping.
Pros:
- Very low maintenance
- Cost-effective choice
- Simple uniform appearance
Cons:
- Plain, not very decorative
- Shows dirt and tire marks
Premium Asphalt
For improved durability and aesthetics, premium asphalt uses a higher grade binder oil to create a thicker, more durable surface. This type resists cracking and damage while providing a richer black color.
Pros:
- Added strength and longevity
- Deeper black color
- Less likely to fade, crack, or show marks
Cons:
- More expensive than basic asphalt
Colored Asphalt
If you want to add some decorative flair, colored asphalt uses special aggregate additives or tinted oils to create tan, brown, red, blue, and other custom colors.
Pros:
- Personalized, unique appearance
- Complements landscaping and home exterior
- Hides dirt better than black asphalt
Cons:
- More expensive
- Color can fade over time from sun exposure
Stamped Asphalt
Stamped asphalt mimics the look of other materials like brick, stone, tile, wood, and flagstone. After laying the asphalt, molds or stamps are pressed in to create texture and patterns.
Pros:
- Highly customizable design options
- More distinctive, decorative appearance
Cons:
- Considerably higher cost
- Pattern can fade over time
Asphalt Overlays
Asphalt overlays involve paving over an existing driveway to renew the surface, correct damage, or change the color/texture. This is cheaper than removing and replacing the entire slab.
Pros:
- Less expensive than new driveway
- Good for updating worn driveways
- Quick installation
Cons:
- Limited driveway thickness
- Existing flaws can reflect through
Asphalt Driveway Installation Process
Installing a new asphalt driveway involves careful planning, preparation, execution, and finish work. Here are the basic steps:
Site Evaluation
The installer will evaluate the site layout, drainage, slope, and soil conditions. This determines any grading or drainage work needed to prepare the base.
Excavation & Grading
The area is excavated 4-12 inches down depending on needs. The soil is compacted and leveled to proper grade and slope for water runoff.
Base Installation
A sub-base of compacted gravel (4-8 inches) is laid and compacted. A base layer of crushed stone like road base (2-4 inches) is installed above that.
Asphalt Paving
The asphalt mixture is transported hot to the site in dump trucks. It is then spread and raked evenly before being compacted with heavy rollers.
Sealing & Finishing
A coating sealant is brushed over seams. Colored or stamped asphalt is imprinted with textures/patterns. Site is cleaned up.
Curing Time
It takes 1-2 days for the asphalt to fully cool and harden before allowing vehicle traffic. Restrict access during this time.
Pro Tip: Hire an experienced, professional paving company to ensure proper preparation and installation. Rushing the process or using subpar workmanship can lead to driveway flaws down the road.
How Long Does Asphalt Driveway Installation Take?
A typical asphalt driveway installation takes 1-3 days from start to finish.
Here is a rough timeline for installation:
- Day 1: Site preparation and base layer installation
- Day 2: Asphalt paving and compaction
- Day 3: Sealing, stamps/color finish, cleanup, curing
Colder weather can prolong the process due to asphalt cooling and hardening slower. The timeline also depends on the driveway’s size and complexity.
Most paving companies prefer to schedule installations in full day blocks to complete each major phase efficiently. Proper planning prevents the rushed paving and errors that can occur when trying to split up the process over multiple small intervals.
How Long Does Asphalt Driveway Last?
When properly installed and maintained, an asphalt driveway can last 15-25 years or more.
Here are some factors that determine lifespan:
- Climate – Freeze/thaw cycles and extreme heat cause wear. Moderate weather extends longevity.
- Usage – High-traffic driveways deteriorate faster from heavy use and abuse.
- Thickness – A thicker asphalt slab holds up better over time.
- Base – Proper sub-base preparation prevents sinking and cracking.
- Maintenance – Periodic sealcoating, patching, etc. prevents deterioration.
With regular upkeep and TLC, even heavily used asphalt driveways typically enjoy life spans of 15+ years before needing major repair or replacement.
How to Care for an Asphalt Driveway
Taking good care of your asphalt driveway from installation day forward is the key to maximizing its lifespan and value. Here are top driveway maintenance tips:
- Sealcoat every 1-3 years – Sealcoating protects against moisture damage, sun fading, gas/oil spills, and wear from weather and vehicles.
- Avoid excessive weight – Repeated heavy loads can cause indentations, cracks, and general deterioration over time.
- Promptly fix cracks – Use crack filler or patch products to prevent further cracking damage from water and debris intrusion.
- Repair potholes – Fill potholes and localized damaged areas before they expand. Larger repairs may need professional help.
- Control weeds – Weed intrusion along edges or in cracks leads to further deterioration. Apply weedkiller or manual removal.
- Remove debris – Don’t allow leaves, dirt, sand, etc. to accumulate on the driveway surface and block drainage.
- Re-slope settled areas – Re-grading and asphalt patching can fix low spots or flat areas where water collects.
- Replace deteriorated edges – Crumbling driveway edges should be patched before damage spreads inward.
- Refresh color (optional) – Applying an asphalt rejuvenator or tinted sealer restores rich black color.
Proper installation combined with vigilant care and maintenance is the formula for maximizing the longevity and value of your asphalt driveway or parking lot.
Asphalt vs Concrete Driveways
Asphalt and concrete are the two most popular driveway surface materials. Here’s how they compare:
Cost
- Asphalt is significantly cheaper installed – approximately $2-$6 per square foot vs. $8-$15 per square foot for concrete.
Durability
- Concrete is stronger and longer-lasting, with an average lifespan of 30-50 years. Asphalt typically lasts 15-25 years.
Appearance
- Concrete provides a bright, pristine look. Asphalt has a more utilitarian appearance.stamping and color finishes add decorative options for asphalt.
Maintenance
- Asphalt requires more frequent sealcoating, patch repairs, etc. Concrete just needs occasional crack filling and joint sealing.
Climate
- Asphalt withstands extreme heat better than concrete. Concrete holds up to freeze/thaw cycles better than asphalt.
Traction
- Concrete is slip-resistant when dry or wet. Asphalt can become slippery when wet.
Customization
- Colored, stamped, and patterned finishes are easier to achieve with asphalt than with concrete.
Repairs
- Asphalt repairs are faster, simpler and cheaper compared to concrete repairs.
Overall, concrete provides the greatest long-term value but comes with higher upfront costs. Asphalt offers budget-friendly installation costs but requires more maintenance. Location, usage, climate and cost considerations help determine the best material for each homeowner.
Frequently Asked Questions About Asphalt Driveways
Does an asphalt driveway add value to a home?
Yes, a properly installed asphalt driveway can increase a home’s value and appeal to buyers. Smooth pavement provides cleaner access versus a gravel driveway. Just be sure it’s kept in good condition through proper maintenance and repairs.
How thick should an asphalt driveway be?
2-3 inches is the typical asphalt thickness for driveways. Heavy duty areas may use 3-4 inches. Anything less than 2 inches compromises durability. Proper sub-base gravel thickness is also crucial for support.
Can asphalt driveway be installed over concrete?
Yes, asphalt overlay is commonly used to pave over existing concrete. This is cheaper than tearing out and replacing concrete. However, overlays have a shorter lifespan than new full-depth asphalt.
How long does new asphalt need to cure before driving?
Allow 1-2 days of cure time before driving on fresh asphalt. Keep foot traffic off, as well. Premature driving can cause permanent tire marks or cracks in the surface.
What is the best base for asphalt driveway?
A 4-6 inch gravel sub-base topped with 2-4 inches of crushed stone base (road base) makes the best foundation. Compaction of layers is critical for stability. Drainage and slope should also be evaluated.
How can you make asphalt black again?
Apply an asphalt rejuvenator or tinted asphalt sealer product to restore rich black color. Be sure to clean and prepare the surface first. Frequent sealing also helps maintain color over time.
Does asphalt need to be sealed?
Sealcoating every 1-3 years is highly recommended to protect asphalt driveways from weathering, moisture damage, chemical spills, sun fading and wear from vehicles. It preserves the surface and prevents costlier repairs later.
Can you pressure wash asphalt driveway?
Yes, you can pressure wash asphalt driveways to clean stains, dirt, oils, etc. Use care not to damage the surface. Allow to fully dry before sealing or driving onto it.
How often should asphalt driveway be repaired?
Besides basic annual sealcoating, repair damaged areas as they occur. Cracks wider than 1/4 inch, potholes, raveling or large worn patches signal the need for prompt repairs to avoid further deterioration.
Is it cheaper to remove or resurface asphalt driveway?
Resurfacing with an asphalt overlay typically costs about half as much as removing and replacing the entire slab. However, multiple overlays can reduce driveway longevity versus a full replacement.
Conclusion
We’ve covered all the essential details for understanding costs, material types, installation, longevity, repairs, and comparisons for asphalt driveways. Key takeaways are:
- Asphalt offers an affordable paving solution at $2-$6 per square foot installed.
- Many design options exist beyond basic blacktop, including premium, colored, stamped, and patterned asphalt.
- Allow 1-3 days for installation based on site size and complexity.
- Regular maintenance such as crack filling and sealcoating prevents deterioration.
- Asphalt lifespan averages 15-25 years or more with proper care.
- An asphalt overlay provides a cost-effective resurfacing solution.
Use this guide to plan your budget, select materials, hire a qualified paving contractor, and take care of your new asphalt driveway. With thoughtful design and vigilant maintenance, you can enjoy the benefits of a durable, low-maintenance driveway that retains its value and curb appeal for years to come.