Key Takeaways:
- Asphalt is a popular driveway choice because it is durable and relatively inexpensive.
- A driveway can last 15 to 30 years, depending on several factors, such as quality of materials and installation, amount of traffic, and weather conditions.
- Routinely sweep the driveway and remove leaves, twigs, and other debris. This will help prevent staining and make it easier to spot cracks or further damage.
- Fill any cracks or holes in your driveway with asphalt patching compound. This will help to prevent further damage.
Asphalt is one of the most popular materials for driveways because it is durable and relatively inexpensive. But there are some things you should know before you have your driveway installed.
Check out this FAQ guide to learn about driveway installation, maintenance, and replacement.
Q: What is Asphalt?
Asphalt is a black, sticky substance made from gravel, sand, and bitumen. Bitumen is a black, oily substance that is extracted from crude oil. When these ingredients are mixed, they create a material you can use to pave roads, driveways, and parking lots.
Q: How Long Will an Asphalt Driveway Last?
A: It can last anywhere from 15 to 30 years, sometimes longer. Of course, how long yours lasts depends on several factors, including the quality of materials and installation and the amount of traffic and wear and tear it’s subject to. Generally, a well-maintained asphalt driveway will last on the high end of that range.
Q: How Much Does a Driveway Installation Cost?
A: The cost of a driveway installation varies depending on several factors, including size, location, and regional labor and materials costs. However, generally, you can expect to pay between $2 and $5 per square foot for a basic asphalt driveway.
Read more on asphalt prices here!
Q: How Do I Maintain My Driveway?
- Routinely sweep your driveway to remove leaves, twigs, and other debris. This will help prevent staining and make it easier to spot cracks or further damage.
- Use a garden hose to wash away dirt, grime, and other build-ups on your driveway. Be sure to use a gentle stream of water to avoid damaging the asphalt.
- Fill any cracks or holes in your driveway with asphalt patching compound. This will help to prevent further damage and will also improve the appearance of your driveway.
- Seal your driveway every two to three years with an asphalt sealer. This will help protect the surface from weather damage and make it easier to keep clean.
- Remove any oil or grease stains from your driveway as soon as possible. These can be difficult to remove if they are allowed to set in, so it is best to deal with them immediately.
- Avoid harsh chemicals or cleaners on your driveway, as these can damage the surface. Stick to gentle, soap-based cleansers for best results.
- Have your driveway professionally inspected every few years for any signs of damage or wear and tear. This will allow you to care for them before they become too serious.
Q: What Are the Benefits of Using Asphalt for Driveways?
Cost-Effective
One of the primary benefits of this type of driveway is its cost-effectiveness. Asphalt is a relatively inexpensive material that can be installed quickly and easily. Additionally, these driveways require minimal maintenance, reducing costs over time.
Durable
It’s also very durable. When properly installed and maintained, an asphalt driveway can last for decades. Asphalt is a tough material resistant to cracking, crumbling, and other forms of damage.
Low Maintenance
It requires very little maintenance to keep them looking their best. Unlike concrete driveways, which you must regularly seal to prevent damage, asphalt driveways only need to be resealed every few years. Additionally, you can easily repair these driveways if they sustain any injury.
Attractive
Another benefit of this type of driveway is that it can be very attractive. Asphalt can be dyed in a variety of colors, and it can also be stamped or textured to create interesting patterns. Asphalt driveways can also be customized with a variety of border treatments.
Easy to Install
Asphalt driveways are relatively easy to install compared to other types of driveways. In most cases, you can install an asphalt driveway in just a few days. This makes asphalt an ideal choice for homeowners who want a new driveway without waiting weeks or months for it to be completed.
Eco-Friendly
Asphalt is also an eco-friendly material. It is made from natural materials such as sand, gravel, and bitumen. It does not release harmful toxins into the environment. Additionally, asphalt can be recycled when it’s no longer needed.
Q: How Does Winter Affects Asphalt Driveways?
The cold weather can cause the asphalt to contract and crack, while the snow and ice can make it difficult to keep the driveway clear. In addition, the salt & sand used to de-ice roads can also damage the asphalt.
For these reasons, it’s important to protect your driveway during winter.
One way to do this is to seal the asphalt before winter arrives. This will help to prevent water from seeping into cracks and causing further damage.
In addition, you should also be careful about using salt on your driveway. Too much salt can eat away at the asphalt, so it’s important to use it sparingly.
By taking these steps, you can help to ensure that your asphalt driveway will withstand the rigors of winter.
Are Asphalt Driveways Better Than Concrete Driveways?
When it comes to choosing a new driveway, homeowners have many options. Two of the most popular materials are asphalt and concrete. Both have advantages, but driveways made from asphalt are the better choice in most cases.
- One advantage of asphalt is that it is less expensive than concrete. It is also easier to repair if it sustains damage.
- Asphalt can be resurfaced relatively easily, while concrete typically needs to be completely replaced if it shows signs of wear and tear.
- In addition, asphalt is more resistant to weather damage than concrete. It holds well in hot and cold climates, whereas concrete can crack in extreme heat or cold.
For all these reasons, asphalt is the preferred material for most homeowners.
Related: Can you put asphalt on concrete?
Driveway installation can be a big project. Let Atkins Paving take the hassle out of it for you. We have almost 30 years of experience installing driveways throughout Charleston, SC, so you can trust that we know what we’re doing.
We only use the highest quality materials, so your driveway will last for years. Our experienced team will work diligently to ensure your new driveway is installed quickly and correctly.
A beautiful new driveway is perfect for improving your home’s curb appeal. Let us help you achieve that today – get a free quotation now!
