Paving projects can be daunting for any homeowner! With residential paving, you need to consider so many factors, from cost and materials to time and maintenance. But don’t worry – if you’re looking for answers about the process of residential paving, find out everything you need to know. From creating a driveway or path to following through with the necessary maintenance afterward, this guide will walk you through every step.
Asphalt Driveways Vs. Other Driveway Material
You can choose from various types of driveways. The popular materials for residential paving are concrete, asphalt, and gravel driveways.
Although concrete driveways are durable and require less upkeep compared to other options, they tend to be pricier and may appear dirty soon after installation.
Asphalt driveways are a cost-effective option that requires minimal upkeep and last for 20-25 years. You can keep them looking new with periodic maintenance, such as applying a seal coat every few years. Additionally, they are more affordable than concrete.
And asphalt is an environmentally friendly choice. “About 100 million tons of asphalt pavement is reclaimed each year, and over 95 percent of that total is reused or recycled.” (1)
How Does Asphalt Driveway Installation Work?
When it comes to residential paving, asphalt driveways are a popular and cost-effective choice for homeowners. But what is the process of installing an asphalt driveway? Let’s take a closer look at an asphalt contractor’s process:
Preparation
The first step of asphalt driveway installation is preparation. The contractor will clear the area of any debris and make sure the ground is level. Next, they will lay a strong foundation of crushed rock or gravel to ensure proper drainage and prevent the asphalt from cracking in the future.
Installation
Once the foundation is in place, the contractor will begin laying the asphalt. They will heat the asphalt to a temperature of around 300 degrees Fahrenheit in a specialized truck, mix it with aggregate, and spread it evenly with a paving machine. The contractor will then compact the asphalt to ensure a smooth surface.
Overall, installing a new asphalt driveway requires expertise and attention to detail. Proper preparation and installation will ensure a smooth, durable driveway for years. And with its affordability and environmental benefits, asphalt is an excellent choice for any homeowner looking to pave their residential property.
Maintaining a New Residential Asphalt Driveway
Once the installation is complete, it’s essential to maintain the asphalt driveway. Asphalt driveways are a durable and affordable option for residential paving projects. However, they are also susceptible to damage from thaw cycles, UV rays, and water.
Thaw cycles occur when temperatures rise above freezing during the day and drop below freezing at night. This cycle can cause the asphalt to expand and contract, leading to cracks and potholes. To prevent damage, it’s crucial to ensure proper drainage and apply a seal coat to the driveway every few years.
UV rays can also cause damage to asphalt driveways. Over time, exposure to sunlight can cause the asphalt to dry out and become brittle, leading to cracks and fading. Applying a seal coat to the driveway can also help protect it from UV damage.
Water is another common cause of damage to asphalt driveways. If water is allowed to pool on the surface, it can seep into the pavement and cause it to weaken and crack. Proper drainage is essential to prevent water damage, and regular seal coating can also help protect the driveway from water penetration.
It’s important to note that while asphalt driveways are durable, they do require maintenance to keep them in good condition. In addition to regular seal coating and proper drainage, homeowners should also avoid parking heavy vehicles or equipment on the driveway, as this can cause damage to the pavement.
Asphalt driveways can provide a smooth, durable surface for many years to come with proper maintenance, including:
- Regular sweeping to remove debris
- Occasional pressure washing to clean off dirt and stains
- Seal coating every few years to protect against weathering
Why the Choice of Asphalt Driveway Paving Companies Matters
When installing residential driveways or other asphalt paving project, an excellent residential paving services contractor will understand the engineering principles behind every move they make.
Experienced contractors will look at many factors as part of the preparation before they install a residential driveway.
- Type of base for your driveway
- Local weather issues, such as the type of winter and summer
- Attention to proper drainage
- The exact location for the asphalt project
- For an older driveway: Whether the contractor should remove an existing driveway or start a resurfacing project
An experienced contractor with the professional machinery necessary for a top-level asphalt installation will also ensure:
- An even and smooth asphalt surface with no uneven areas
- Quality of asphalt pavement materials and mix
- Meeting of premium thickness standards
Our Experienced Asphalt Contractors Can Help
At AMP Paving, we’ve got you covered whether you’re ready to create a new driveway, back patios, paths to a side door, or a private country road! Our experienced asphalt contractors can help you design and build whatever asphalt project you have in mind.
With our attention to detail, high-quality asphalt materials, and specialized machinery, we can ensure your residential property pavement is of the highest quality and durability. Contact us today to learn how we can partner with you for all your residential asphalt needs!