Asphalt is a black, sticky, and viscous material that is used for paving roads, parking lots, and other outdoor surfaces. It is made of asphalt cement and other materials, such as mineral fillers, fiber reinforcements, and anti-skid additives. Asphalt has a number of desirable properties, including high durability, low maintenance, and resistance to weathering. It also has a relatively low cost compared to other paving materials.
On the other hand, gravel is a type of rock that is made up of small, loose stones. It is often used for driveways and other outdoor surfaces because it is durable and can handle a lot of traffic. Gravel can be made up of different types of stones, such as crushed limestone, granite, and gravel. It is also relatively inexpensive and can be used for a variety of purposes.
But which is a better material for your driveway? If you want to know more, we suggest you continue reading as we’ll talk about asphalt vs gravel driveway in today’s article.
Basic Things To Consider When Choosing Between Asphalt Or Gravel
When it comes to driveway surfaces, there are a few different options to choose from, including asphalt and gravel. Both have their own advantages and disadvantages, so it can be difficult to decide which one is right for your home. Here are a few factors to consider when choosing between asphalt and gravel:
Price: Asphalt is generally more expensive than gravel.
Installation: Asphalt is more labor-intensive to install than gravel.
Appearance: Asphalt has a smoother appearance than gravel, which can be less appealing to some people.
Durability: Asphalt is more durable than gravel, and can last longer with proper maintenance.
Maintenance: Asphalt requires more maintenance than gravel, as it needs to be resealed periodically to protect against damages.
Weather Resistance: Asphalt is better at resisting weather-related damages such as cracking and deterioration.
Ease of Replacement: Gravel is easier and less expensive to replace than asphalt, making it the better option for those looking to save money.
Overall, both asphalt and gravel have their own pros and cons. Asphalt is more expensive and requires more maintenance, but it’s also more durable and better at resisting weather-related damages. Gravel is less expensive to install and maintain, but it’s not as durable or attractive as asphalt. Ultimately, the decision will come down to personal preference and budget.
How Is An Asphalt Driveway Made
An asphalt driveway is constructed a little differently than a gravel driveway. The first step is to clear the area where the driveway will be. This can be done by using a bulldozer to move all of the debris away.
The next step is to grade the area. This means that you will need to make sure that the surface is even so that the asphalt can be laid down properly. Then, the contractor will lay down a layer of asphalt, also known as the base layer. This should be about two inches thick. The next step is to add a layer of hot mix asphalt on top of the base layer. This should also be about two inches thick.
The final step is to add a layer of sealant on top of the hot mix asphalt.
How Is A Gravel Driveway Made
A gravel driveway is made by first grading the area where the driveway will be. This means that the surface is leveled out so that it is even.
Next, a layer of gravel is spread out and compacted. This helps to ensure that the driveway is sturdy and can support vehicles.
Finally, a top layer of gravel is added to finish the look.
Who To Hire
Constructing an asphalt or gravel driveway requires skill and expertise that we don’t usually possess. Which is why you need to hire a capable contractor like Denali Paving in Santa Rosa, CA to take care of the construction of your driveway.
There are a few reasons why you might want to choose a contractor who specializes in the construction of asphalt or gravel driveways:
- Experience: A specialist will have more experience with this type of driveway, so they’ll likely be able to complete the job more quickly and efficiently.
- Proper Equipment: A contractor who specializes in asphalt or gravel driveways will have the necessary equipment to do the job right, which can save you time and money in the long run.
- Knowledgeable: These contractors will have a deep understanding of the different materials and techniques involved in this type of driveway construction, so they can give you informed advice about what would work best for your home.
- Quality Results: A contractor who specializes in asphalt or gravel driveways will be able to create a driveway that looks great, is durable, and can last for many years.
- Cost Savings: Depending on the size of your project and the materials you choose, hiring a specialist may end up costing less money than it would to hire a general contractor who doesn’t specialize in this type of work.
No matter what material you choose for your driveway, it’s important to hire an experienced and knowledgeable contractor who can provide you with the best results. An asphalt or gravel driveway expert will have the skills and experience needed to create a long-lasting and aesthetically pleasing driveway for your home.
