When it comes to paving a driveway or parking lot, one of the first questions you may have is about cost. An asphalt company can give you a quote after taking measurements, but how do they come up with that? In this blog post, we’ll teach you how to calculate the asphalt needed for your project (just like an online asphalt calculator) so you can be an informed consumer and discuss your quote with the asphalt company. So let’s dig in.
What is Asphalt? How is it Made?
The type of asphalt used for your project will affect your pricing. There are several different types of asphalt, and it is important that the correct one is used. Hot mix asphalt consists of sand, stone, and liquid asphalt cement, which is heated and mixed. This type of asphalt is generally used for projects like highways and driveways because it can be spread thin without sacrificing strength or durability.
While we prefer to use hot mix asphalt, there is the possibility of using cold mix asphalt in specific circumstances. Cold mix is created by asphalt emulsion and cut-back asphalt. It’s generally used for temporary repairs because it does not spread as well as hot mix asphalt.
How Much Does Asphalt Cost per Ton?
It doesn’t take a lot of asphalt to pave a small area like a driveway. Larger projects will, of course, require more asphalt. The cost of asphalt varies depending on the type of asphalt you choose for your project and where you live. Generally, you can expect to pay between $100 and $200 per ton.
In South Carolina, the price of asphalt is around $85 per ton, while in Colorado, the price is closer to $155 per ton.
As you can see, there are a lot of variables that will affect the cost of asphalt for your project. Knowing how to calculate the asphalt you’ll need helps you be informed as a consumer and get the best price for your project.
Asphalt Calculator: Determine the Amount of Asphalt Needed
You can check out asphaltisbest.com for a quick calculator. For example, if your driveway is 30 feet long and 14 feet wide, and you want asphalt 3 inches thick, you would need about 7.5 tons a So if asphalt costs $100 per ton where you live, expect to pay at least $770 for the asphalt alone.
Of course, this is just a rough estimate because other factors are involved, like waste, cost of labor, company’s overhead, machinery costs, etc. These additional expenses are not part of the formula in our example. But now you better understand how asphalt companies come up with their estimate.
According to HomeGuide.com, “One ton of asphalt covers 30 to 80 square feet. A 2-car driveway needs 7.5 to 18 tons of asphalt, depending on the thickness.”
Now that you know how to calculate the amount of asphalt needed for your project, you can discuss your quote with the asphalt company and ensure you’re getting a fair price.
Depth of Asphalt Matters
A reputable paving company will pave at the proper depth based off your needs. You don’t want to go with a company that is paving at 1.5 inches or less.
Also, watch out for companies that guarantee 3 inches but only give you 2 inches of depth. This type of work is not up to par for a well-done asphalt project.
The depth of the asphalt is determined by several factors to include weight/frequency of traffic, slope, etc. The depth will also determine how easily it will crack or develop potholes. You’ll need more maintenance with a thinner layer to keep it looking good. However, with an experienced asphalt contractor, your asphalt will last for decades with minimal maintenance.
What Other Factors Determine the Cost of My Project?
In addition to the asphalt itself, other factors will affect your project’s cost.
Factors affecting the cost include:
- Size of the area to be paved
- Amount of prep work
- Issues with foundation
- Hills or landscaping issues in the way
- The complexity of the project
- Time of year
- Asphalt company you choose
- Cost of labor in your area
The best way to get an accurate estimate for your project is to contact a highly reviewed asphalt company and ask for a quote. Ask about the cost of their asphalt mix, why they use it, and the recommended depth or other factors that may affect your project. Listen to their answers and make sure they listen to your concerns.
With some research, you can be sure you’re getting a fair price for your asphalt paving project. Now that you know how much asphalt you’ll need for your project and what it will cost, you’re ready to start talking to asphalt companies about getting a quote.
We Can Help
At AMP Paving, we work with businesses and individuals across the state of South Carolina to lay down quality blacktop that lasts for decades. Our extensive experience includes asphalt parking lots, driveways, and more. In addition, we do sealcoating, crack filling, parking lot striping and ADA-required signage. No job is too big or small for us to handle.
If you’re in South Carolina and need asphalt paving, we’d love to talk with you about your project. We offer free quotes, so you know exactly what you’ll pay before we start work. Contact us to find out more.