Asphalt driveways are a popular choice for homeowners, as they are relatively inexpensive and easy to maintain. They also offer a professional look and curb appeal to your home.
Asphalt is made from bitumen, a thick black liquid that can be used to pave roads and parking lots. This material is durable and able to withstand the freeze-thaw cycle. Visit https://www.pavementsolutionstx.com/ to learn more.
Whether your existing driveway is cracked, outdated, or just a neighborhood eyesore, installing a new asphalt driveway will significantly enhance your home’s curb appeal. However, before you begin the installation process, it’s important to consider the cost of the project. The price of an asphalt driveway varies greatly depending on geographic location, weather conditions, and the size and scope of the job.
The cost of an asphalt driveway primarily includes the excavation and grading work, the materials, and the actual paving of the driveway. The cost of the paving itself is usually between $7 and $13 per square foot, which includes the material and labor costs. The excavation and grading work may require the removal of any trees that are in the way, which typically costs between $750 and $2,000.
Once the asphalt is laid, it must be compacted using a mechanical roller to create a smooth surface. Then, edging is added to the perimeter of the driveway for a finished look and to prevent the asphalt from shifting or cracking over time. Depending on the size of the driveway, the contractor may also need to add a hardcore or gravel base, which increases the total cost.
In addition to these upfront costs, you should budget for maintenance costs. It’s recommended to seal an asphalt driveway every six months to a year, and resurfacing is required after three to five years. This will help prolong the life of your asphalt and minimize the amount of money you’ll need to spend on repair and maintenance down the road.
While some homeowners might be tempted to take on the job themselves, it’s highly recommended that you hire an experienced professional. This is because laying an asphalt driveway is a complex endeavor that involves many stages, including properly preparing the site, mixing and heating the asphalt, and correctly laying it onto your driveaway’s surface. If you make mistakes, the result can be costly and unsightly.
The best asphalt contractors have the necessary experience, equipment, and skills to ensure that your project is completed successfully. They should be licensed and insured, with workers’ compensation and liability insurance to cover any damage caused during the construction process. They should also be able to provide references and proof of previous jobs.
Durability
Asphalt is a more durable pavement option than concrete, and it holds up well against the freeze-thaw cycle and de-icing salts. This makes it a great choice for areas with variable weather conditions. However, even though it is more durable than other materials, the lifespan of your driveway will depend on several factors. Proper maintenance will help you get the most out of your asphalt driveway. Regular cleaning and inspections of cracks will minimize damage. Spraying your asphalt with cold water on hot days will also minimize heat-induced cracking. In addition, avoiding parking vehicles that leak fluids like oil or gasoline on your asphalt will protect it from damage.
Asphalt requires less maintenance than concrete, and it is a more cost-effective option. It’s easier to repair and is also suitable for low-traffic areas. While concrete is more expensive and requires a longer time to cure, it’s not as easy to repair or maintain. In general, asphalt is much easier to install than other materials, and it can be rolled out and used immediately after being laid.
The longevity of your asphalt driveway will depend on the type and amount of traffic it receives. For example, heavy traffic will wear down the surface more quickly than a quieter street. In addition, you should avoid parking vehicles that are leaking fluids on your driveway, as this will cause the asphalt to degrade faster. In the case of a leak, you should remove the spill and clean up the area as soon as possible.
Cracking is another factor that reduces the lifespan of asphalt driveways. These cracks should be repaired as soon as they appear. Left untreated, these cracks will widen, and the asphalt may begin to separate from the base. To prevent this, make sure your asphalt is paved by a professional with experience mixing and applying it.
Unlike concrete, which is very difficult to repair once it’s cracked, asphalt can be patched easily. You can use a liquid or hot-pour rubber crack filler to fix the damaged area. It’s also a good idea to have your asphalt driveway sealed every few years to extend its lifespan.
Maintenance
While asphalt driveways are incredibly durable, they do require regular maintenance to extend their lifespan. In fact, some experts recommend applying a coat of sealant every six months to a year and resurfacing every three to five years. This prevents the surface from cracking and fading, and extends its lifespan.
In addition to seal coating and resurfacing, homeowners should regularly inspect their asphalt driveways to identify any potential issues. This includes examining the condition of the asphalt, removing weeds and debris, and repairing any holes or cracks. Proper maintenance can significantly reduce the lifecycle of an asphalt driveway and save homeowners money in the long run.
Cracks in asphalt can lead to serious problems if they are not addressed promptly. For example, water can penetrate these cracks and destroy the base material of the driveway. This damage becomes worse when the water freezes and thaws in repeated cycles. To avoid this, homeowners should use a liquid crack filler to repair minor cracks in their asphalt driveway before they worsen.
Additionally, homeowners should regularly sweep and wash their asphalt driveway to remove dirt and debris. They should also trim weeds and trees, as these can cause significant damage to the pavement. Finally, they should always remove any oil and gasoline spills as soon as possible to prevent the deterioration of the asphalt.
Drainage is another key factor in determining the longevity of asphalt. Standing water degrades asphalt more quickly than other materials. During the installation process, it is important to ensure proper drainage by grading the driveway away from homes and structures. This will help prevent water accumulation and minimize low spots that can cause drainage problems.
In addition to preventing drainage problems, it is important to periodically reseal the asphalt driveway to protect it from sunlight and other environmental factors. Fortunately, these steps are relatively simple and can be done by the average homeowner. Moreover, these repairs are cheaper than repairing concrete, making them an attractive option for those on a budget. In addition, asphalt is resistant to the freeze-thaw cycle and de-icing salts, which can further reduce maintenance costs.
Appearance
Asphalt is a durable, attractive material that offers a modern and sleek appearance when it’s poured properly. However, the material is susceptible to the same types of damage and deterioration that impact concrete. To avoid these problems, follow some simple maintenance tips.
The sturdiness of an asphalt driveway depends on the quality and thickness of its construction, as well as the amount of use it receives. Using the right type of asphalt mix and laying it thickly can help ensure the longevity of your driveway. It’s also important to hire a professional contractor to perform the installation.
Proper drainage is essential for any pavement, but it’s particularly critical for an asphalt driveway. If rainwater is allowed to pool or puddle on the surface, it will slowly wear away the inner layers of the asphalt and cause large cracks and potholes. The proper slope of the driveway is also critical to preventing water from gathering under the pavement.
Vegetation can also damage an asphalt driveway. Branches and roots from nearby trees can penetrate the pavement, causing deterioration and damage. To prevent this, keep vegetation and weeds at a safe distance from your driveway.
Aside from the usual damage that occurs over time, there are other issues that can affect asphalt and require repair or replacement. These include fatigue cracking, edge cracking and block cracking. Fatigue cracking, which resembles the skin of an alligator, indicates a flaw in the structural design or installation of the pavement. It can be caused by excessive loads, poor drainage and dramatic temperature fluctuations.
Another common problem is scuffing, which is caused by tire contact with the asphalt surface. This blemish appears as dark scuff marks on the asphalt and can be reduced by regularly applying a coat of sealant to your asphalt driveway.