Asphalt is made up of a number of components, including sand, gravel, bitumen and filler. The bitumen is the component that gives asphalt its sticky, viscous consistency, while the sand and gravel provide the necessary strength and stability. Filler is often added to asphalt to improve its properties, such as its resistance to cracking.
The exact composition of asphalt varies depending on its intended use. For example, the asphalt used for paving roads is different from the asphalt used for roofing shingles.
Asphalt is a popular material for driveways because it is durable, easy to maintain and affordable. It can also be installed quickly, making it a convenient option for homeowners. Additionally, asphalt driveway surfaces are resistant to staining and fading, which means they will look great for years to come.
But how much to pave a driveway with asphalt? Read more as we’ll get into the details of this topic in today’s article.
The Step-By-Step Process Of Installing Asphalt On The Driveway
Installing asphalt on a driveway is a relatively easy process that is often handled by professional contractors. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do it:
- The contractor will first determine how much asphalt is needed. They do this by measuring the length and width of your driveway.
- The contractor will prepare the surface of the driveway. This includes removing any debris or obstacles and grading the surface so it is level.
- The contractor will pour the asphalt. And they will use a shovel to spread it evenly across the driveway.
- They will compact the asphalt by using a roller or something heavy to press down on the asphalt and make it solid.
- The contractor will finish up any touch-ups. And once the asphalt has had a chance to set, they may need to go back and fix any mistakes or smooth out any bumps.
Factors That Affect The Cost Of Asphalt Driveway Installation
An asphalt driveway typically costs around $7-$13 per square foot installed. For a 500 square foot (50 x 10) driveway this would come out to an average cost of $3,500-$6,500. Some companies charge by the ton, with the average price being $85-$90 per ton for hot mix asphalt.
However, there are a few things that can affect the price of your asphalt driveway. One of the most important factors is the size of the driveway. The more square footage there is, the more material will be needed and the higher the cost will be.
The thickness of the asphalt also affects the price. An asphalt driveway is typically around two inches thick. This thickness can vary depending on the contractor and the specific project, but it is a good rule of thumb to start with. Thicker driveways can be more costly, but they may also be more durable in the long run. When deciding on how much to pave a driveway with asphalt, keep this standard thickness in mind.
The type of asphalt also matters. The three most common types are hot mix asphalt, cold mix asphalt and asphalt concrete. Hot mix asphalt is made up of a sticky, black substance called bitumen and small stones called aggregate. It is heated to a very high temperature and then poured out onto the road.
Cold mix asphalt is made up of a different type of bitumen that doesn’t need to be heated. It is mixed with small stones and then poured out onto the road.
Asphalt concrete is made up of a type of bitumen that is mixed with small stones and sand. It is usually used for paving roads, driveways and parking lots.
A higher quality asphalt will be more expensive than a lower quality asphalt.
In addition, the slope of the driveway can also affect the installation cost; a driveway that is on a steep slope will be more difficult to install and will cost more money.
Finally, the cost of installation can vary depending on the contractor you choose. So, there are many factors that affect the cost of installing an asphalt driveway – so it’s important to do your research before making a decision.
Tips For Choosing The Right Professional Contractor
When it comes time to pave your driveway, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is who to hire for the job. It’s important to choose a qualified professional contractor who will do a good job and meet your needs. Here are some tips for choosing a contractor:
- Ask around. Get recommendations from friends, family, or neighbors who have had a driveway paved.
- Check with the Better Business Bureau. The BBB can tell you if there are any complaints against the contractor you’re considering.
- Get estimates from several contractors. This will give you a good idea of what different contractors charge for the same job.
- Check references. Ask the contractor for references from previous customers and check them out yourself.
- Get a written contract. Make sure the contract includes details about the work to be done, the materials to be used, and the price.
- Make sure the contractor is insured and licensed like Thomas and Dustin’s Asphalt Paving in Pevely, MO. Don’t hire a contractor who isn’t properly insured or licensed – you could be liable if something goes wrong on the job.
- Be sure to ask about warranty and guarantee information. This will protect you in case something goes wrong with the paving job.
Overall, choosing a qualified professional contractor is the best way to ensure that your driveway paving job is done right. With a little research, you can find a contractor who will do a great job at a fair price.
