What Is The Cost of an Asphalt Driveway?

Installing a new driveway is a big investment, so it’s important to research the cost of the materials and labor before taking on the job. Asphalt driveways are one of the most popular choices due to their durability and affordability.

Due to its low cost and long-term benefits, an asphalt driveway may be exactly what you need for your home. But before making a decision, it’s best to understand how much an asphalt driveway will cost in terms of materials and labor. Here’s a look at some factors that can influence an asphalt driveway’s overall costs.

Cost Factors of Asphalt Driveways

The cost of an asphalt driveway can vary depending on a number of factors, such as size and location. Other cost factors to consider include preparation costs, which can involve grading the surface to ensure proper drainage, excavation work for subsurface material removal, and the addition of a gravel base.

Additional costs may be incurred if seal coating, topcoat, or striping is added to the project. Depending on the condition of existing driveways, more labor could be required for repairs prior to asphalt installation. The cost of materials will also vary based on the quality, type, and size of aggregate as well as the thickness and scope of the job.

In summary, the factors that affect the cost of asphalt driveway installation include

• The cost of the materials needed.

• Any necessary excavation or grading work.

• Whether you choose to hire a contractor or do it yourself.

• The size and complexity of the job.

• Excavation and grading costs.

• The cost of materials – asphalt, crushed stone, and gravel.

• Dumping fees for hauling material away.

• Labor costs for contractors or workers hired to install the driveway.

Benefits of Asphalt Driveways

Asphalt driveways are a popular choice for many homeowners, due to their comparatively low cost and ease of installation, including other benefits like

1. Asphalt is also incredibly durable, and it can last much longer than other materials.
2. Asphalt is waterproof, meaning that it won’t be damaged by exposure to water or other elements like some other driveway materials can.
3. Asphalt requires much less maintenance than other materials. It only needs to be resealed every few years in order to increase its lifespan and help protect it from the elements.
4. Asphalt driveways can easily be customized into different shapes, which helps make them a versatile choice for any residential property.

Asphalt driveways are a cost-effective option and can last for years. The asphalt is durable and low maintenance since it doesn’t require sealing or resealing every year, unlike other driveway options. Asphalt is also less prone to cracking and potholes compared to concrete driveways, making it a better choice for areas that experience extreme shifts in temperature.

Maintenance of Asphalt Driveways

Maintaining an asphalt driveway is important to ensure that it lasts as long as possible. Here are some steps you can take to maintain your asphalt driveway:

• Clean your driveway regularly with a pressure washer brush or detergent solution to remove debris, dirt, and oil spots.
• Seal coat your driveway every three to five years to protect it from the elements, such as sun and water.
• Repair any cracks or potholes in the pavement as soon as they appear to prevent further damage from occurring.
• Install edging along the edges of your driveway to prevent erosion and weed growth in the soil near the asphalt.
• Have the gravel base beneath the asphalt inspected once a year to make sure there is adequate support for your pavement surface.

Proper maintenance of an asphalt driveway is important as it can help to extend the life of the driveway, prevent cracks and potholes from forming, improve its aesthetic appeal, and increase its value. Keeping the asphalt sealed can help slow damage from water and UV radiation, and repairing any existing damage will make the surface smoother and more attractive.

Alternatives to Asphalt Driveways

There are several alternatives to an asphalt driveway that you may want to consider.  Alternatives to asphalt driveways include gravel driveways, brick pavers, concrete driveways, stamped concrete, or permeable pavers. Each has its own advantages and drawbacks in terms of cost, durability and aesthetic appeal.

• Concrete is a popular choice for driveways and offers durability, strength, and a variety of design options.  It can be a more affordable choice compared to asphalt but is not as good at withstanding fluctuations in temperature or discoloration.
• Gravel is another option and provides a lower cost alternative with minimal maintenance required.  It may be the least expensive option but requires more maintenance than other materials and requires an edging around the perimeter of the driveway.

These materials are often more cost-effective than asphalt and may be better suited to areas with high moisture or other environmental concerns. Resurfacing options can also extend the life of an existing asphalt driveway by preventing erosion and staining.

Local Asphalt Driveway Contractors

When looking for local asphalt driveway contractors, it’s important to research the company thoroughly.

• Make sure you read online reviews and ask friends or family if they have had any experiences with the contractor.
• Take time to understand exactly what the project will involve and make sure that you are comfortable with the scope of work outlined in the contract.
• Find out if the contractor has any previous experience with asphalt driveways and ask questions about their process and resources.
• Be sure to get an estimate from several different contractors so that you can compare prices and pick one that offers competitive rates.

Tips for Choosing an Asphalt Driveway Contractor 

When choosing an asphalt driveway contractor, it is important to ensure that they are experienced and reliable. At Big Easy Asphalt, we have over 20 years of experience in the field and provide excellent customer service. We use high-quality materials to ensure that your driveway is strong and durable. Additionally, our team will work closely with you to make sure that your expectations are met, and the job is done properly. We also offer competitive prices to help make sure you get the best value for your money. 

Contact us today to learn more about our asphalt services or ask for a free estimate.