Do you have a long driveway? If so, you know that finding the right paving material can be a challenge. You want something affordable that will last for years without requiring too much maintenance. Many people choose asphalt because it is cost-effective and durable. This blog post will discuss the benefits of using asphalt and why it is the best choice for homeowners in South Carolina!
How to Choose the Right Paving Material for a Long Driveway
When it comes to long driveways, you want a material that will last over 20 years with minimal maintenance. Asphalt provides long-term durability and doesn’t require as much regular maintenance as gravel or dirt roads.
And it’s also more affordable than many options, so it won’t break your budget when installing a longer drive. Furthermore, asphalt can be easily repaired if there is damage to the surface. Concrete, not so much.
- Concrete repair costs up to $8 per square foot!
- Asphalt repair costs $2 to $5 per square foot.
- Resurfacing an entire asphalt drive is only $1 to $3 per square foot! Compare that to concrete resurfacing at up to $7 per square foot!
A contractor can’t reliably resurface, so your contractor will have to break up the old slab and pour a new one.
For asphalt, the contractor can apply a base and finish coat over the existing asphalt. They can then fill the cracks. (1)
Benefits of Asphalt Paving for a Long Driveway in South Carolina.
Asphalt is weather resistant and can withstand extreme temperatures without cracking or crumbling.
This means your asphalt driveway will look good even if you experience long periods of hot sun or cold snow. Asphalt is also less susceptible to erosion than other driveway materials, so you don’t have to worry about your long driveway washing away with heavy rain or snowfall.
And you can increase your home’s curb appeal with an asphalt driveway. Consider the view of your driveway from the road. As a potential buyer, driving in on a smooth blacktop is a great start to their impression!
With great landscaping and design strategies, your driveway can class up your home’s style!
The Cost of Asphalt vs Other Driveway Materials
Asphalt is by far the most cost-effective paving material for long driveways. It costs much less than concrete and provides a long-lasting solution that won’t require frequent repairs or maintenance.
However, maintenance is crucial with an asphalt drive, to keep it looking good for a long time. Asphalt is low-maintenance compared to other paving options. It only needs occasional sealcoating every few years to keep it looking good and prevent damage from the elements.
And if you do have a problem with your drive, asphalt can look like new with a quick repair (unlike concrete which shows noticeable patches). Asphalt can even withstand repeated heavy trucks or other farm equipment driving on it!
Also, concrete needs constant pressure washing to look good. Do you want to spend your time doing this on a longer driveway?
In addition, the asphalt installation process is quick! It is set and live for driving within a day of paving! So you don’t have to wait long to enjoy the new driveway leading to your home!
Additional Features To Upscale a Long Driveway
Asphalt driveways can also be adorned with a few additional features to increase the curb appeal of your driveway. Consider adding custom borders or creative designs to boost your long driveway’s aesthetic.
Edging stones are one way to upscale a long driveway. These decorative stones make a great addition to any asphalt driveway and can add a unique touch to your home.
Landscape
Consider planting some hedges if you want privacy along the driveway’s edges. If your property has a large grass lawn, consider adding decorative plants as a border or creating a flower garden along one side. And when the light starts to fade in autumn, add winter-hardy varieties to the mix.
Garage doors
If your driveway finds its end at your house, consider making the driveway wider near your garage. If a side door leads into the garage, create an asphalt path in that direction also.
Stone Walls
If you’re considering fences along the sides of your driveway, stone walls are beautiful and durable. A fence along one side can also look nice as you’re driving to your home.
Bottom Line
AMP Paving in the Columbia area of South Carolina offers cost-effective and low-maintenance asphalt drive paving. Our design strategy provides long-term durability and weather resistance with proper care and maintenance.
Talk with us about installing an asphalt drive that can last over 20 years with minimal upkeep. Contact us today to get started on your project!