Read on to get answers to some of the most common Asphalt Paving FAQs.
A well-paved Driveway has its own appeal when it comes to property aesthetics and Asphalt is one of the most common choices among homeowners to pave their driveway.
The reason being its affordability, durability, and supreme aesthetics. However, getting a driveway paved is a sensitive job that requires complete knowledge of the specifics.
While your asphalt contractor is knowledgeable enough to solve any of your queries, getting educated about Paving can help you in deciding what you need out of the paving job.
This Asphalt Paving FAQs is designed to assist you in getting the answers to the most classic asphalt paving questions.
So, without any more delay, let’s get into Asphalt Paving FAQs right away.
Asphalt Paving FAQs | All About Driveway Paving
#1. When Should I Get My Driveway Paved?
Well, you should get your driveway paved whenever you want it to look brand new. Even if you’re not a prodigy at assessing asphalt driveways, some signs of damage on asphalt surface are quite visible.
Know that you need a paving contractor when you notice these signs:
- Cracks or indents that are big enough to allow moisture under the surface layer
- Potholes that are prone to become bigger due to continuous traffic
- Discolorations and uneven surface area
Asphalt Driveway Paving Contractors usually recommend paving the entire driveway to maintain the structural integrity.
#2. How Much Does Driveway Paving Cost?
There is not a one-word answer to this question. The ultimate expenditure on the paving project always depend on the needs of the individual project. A contractor has to undertake a thorough inspection of your driveway. Plus, they will have to prepare a project plan accounting for each and every aspect of the project.
Some factors that impact Asphalt Paving Cost include:
- Cost of laying the foundation
- Drainage system installation
- Time taken to excavate and clear off the driveway area
- Material transportation cost
Apart from the above factors, Driveway Paving Price Per Square Foot will also depend on the material costs. The most common varieties of asphalt materials include recycled, warm mix, hot mix, and porous asphalt.
#3. What Should Be The Thickness Of The Asphalt Driveway?
Asphalt thickness should first and foremost depend on the intended use of the driveway.
The number of vehicles and traffic on an average day determines how robust your driveway should be.
Well, a commercial establishment may need up to 4 inches of compacted asphalt thickness due to the traffic overload. But when it comes to a residential driveway, 3 inch thickness of compacted hot asphalt should suffice.
Moreover, pavement thickness will also depend on the sub-grade soil. But hiring a soil engineer to assess the soil in your area can quickly take paving costs through the roof.
A much better thing to do would be to look for a contractor who has years of experience in paving projects. These contractors have a very good idea of the required thickness for different driveways.
#4. Does Paving a Driveway Add Value to a House?
Yes, definitely.
A properly installed asphalt driveway significantly enhances the appeal of your property. Plus, you’ll have an easier time selling your home with an aesthetically pleasing driveway area.
Home buyers usually look for asphalt driveways due to its durability and resistance to extreme temperatures. As a result, you can be pretty sure of the high ROI once you get your driveway asphalt paved.
Whatever you incur as Driveway Paving Cost can payback big time when you sell your house.
#5. What Are the Different Driveway Paving Types?
Asphalt is the most common driveway surface and you might as well already be driving over many of them without noticing.
Well, Driveway Paving Installation types predominantly belong to the following categories:
- Hot-Mix Asphalt (HMA) – It’s the combination of asphalt cement and aggregate. In order to ensure the workability of the mixture, it’s important to heat the aggregate and asphalt before mixing. That’s why the process is known as “hot mix”.
This hot mixture is transported to the paving site after complete mixing is done. Then, it’s laid on the driveway surface with the help of a paving machine.
- Porous Asphalt – This kind of asphalt pavement consists of bituminous asphalt which is highly permeable to water. Porous asphalt is most commonly used in the driveway or parking area to enable water drainage through the pavement.
Additionally, porous asphalt surface usually has a life span of minimum 20 years.
- Asphalt Overlay – This is basically the application of a new layer of asphalt over the deteriorating one. In case of severe damage like rutting and potholes, milling of the surface may be needed before overlaying it with asphalt.
Once the base layer is prepared, the asphalt overlay can be paved with a thickness of up to 2 inches.
#6. What Is the Best Temperature for Driveway Paving?
Most will tell you the best time to undertake any paving or asphalt repair work is summers or spring. This is due to the importance of maintaining a certain internal temperature of the asphalt mix which is necessary for it to set properly.
The perfect condition for asphalt paving is around 70o Fahrenheit.As asphalt driveway installation time is fairly short in colder climates, hiring a contractor who is quick in their work process and have the most advanced equipment will certainly help.
#7. How Long Do Asphalt Driveways Last?
Well, an asphalt driveway can last you a fairly long time. But do keep in mind that you need to care for its maintenance after the actual paving.
Regular inspection can extend the lifetime of the driveway substantially.
In the most perfect scenario with proper care and maintenance, expect a single asphalt paving to last you up to 30 years.
The life time of the asphalt driveway will also depend on the type of traffic and the climate conditions in your area.
#8. How Long Before I can Walk on a New Asphalt Driveway?
You need to wait for at least 24 hours before walking or driving on a newly paved driveway. In very warm weather, it’s recommended to leave the asphalt surface for at least 1-2 days as it cools and cures.
Though, abstain from driving or parking any heavy-duty commercial vehicle on the surface for some time. You can also use caution tapes to prevent any such vehicle from entering your driveway area.
#9. Can You Asphalt Pave Your Own Driveway?
Usually, asphalt driveway paving is not a one man job. While you can save a lot on paving if you go the DIY route, it’s usually not advised.
The primary reason behind this is the level of expertise you need for an Asphalt Driveway Paving Process.
Whether you’re installing a new driveway or just overlaying the previous one, you need to consider a few factors. These factors include if you’ve the knowledge to lay a strong sub-grade foundation and if you’ve the right equipment and machines to carry on the task.
A stable foundation is actually critical for a driveway, which also involves installing the right drainage system. Most of the homeowners lack this knowledge. On the other hand, getting the required machinery, such as a roller will increase overall Asphalt Paving Costs.
Sometimes, getting an asphalt contractor is much more prudent than investing your time and money which may or may not give a desirable result.
#10. What Kind of Maintenance Is Required To Maintain a Paved Driveway?
Regular inspection and care of the driveway surface extends its lifetime.
An asphalt driveway may go through regular wear and tear due to changing weather conditions, traffic overload, and heavy usage. However, there are ways to control the damage before it extends.
Invariably, consistent care of the driveway surface is much more cost-effective and practical than a completely new installation.
Below are some of the asphalt paving methods you can use for regular upkeep of the asphalt surface:
-
Crack Sealing
Cracks are probably the most common issue is an asphalt driveway. However, if not fixed on time, these cracks may widen and water may seep into them to reach the sub-grade layer. This can undermine the structural integrity of your driveway to a major extent.
Crack sealing method makes use of rubberized crack sealer between the cracks to completely seal the area.
The crack sealant stretches as the asphalt expands and contracts according to temperature changes. Plus, sealing the cracks is fairly cost effective and saves you from long-term damage costs.
-
Asphalt Patching
This repair method is most suitable to correct minor asphalt problems. For instance, if your driveway has small potholes, minor cracks, or drainage issues, patching it with hot mix asphalt is ideal.
It’s relatively more affordable than other repair methods. Plus, asphalt patching is enough to take care of the temporary damage that may happen due to changing weather conditions.
This method proves even more effective when infrared technology is used to patch the area. Infrared patching is perfect for any kind of conditions making it versatile as well as more time saving. Plus, it’s an eco-friendly method for asphalt repairs.
-
Asphalt Repairs and Maintenance
Regular asphalt repairs and maintenance can save you a lot of bucks on long-term damages.
Taking consistent care of your driveway may prove more useful than you might think. As you may know, asphalt damage takes time to expand, whether it’s cracks or potholes. When you’re proactive and take necessary steps on time, you may prevent these from becoming a severe issue.
Some steps you can take to maintain the pristine condition of your asphalt driveway include:
- Regular site inspection
- Understand the cause of asphalt failure (Whether lack of maintenance, drainage issues, or snow plow damage)
- Consulting with an asphalt contractor
- Prepare a budget plan for regular repairs
Moreover, an experienced and best paving contractor can help you decide the best action plan for maintaining the integrity of your driveway.
So this was all about asphalt paving faqs.
Well, a sure shot thing you must have gotten out of this Asphalt Paving FAQs is being proactive in your asphalt driveway maintenance. And a skilled asphalt contractor is your best bet in accomplishing your project goals on time.
Are You Looking for Expert Driveway Paving Services?
Get In Touch with Main Infrastructure!
We have been offering specialized paving and other asphalt services in Toronto GTA area for years. In fact, we have a portfolio that includes paving work for industrial, healthcare, and retail developments.
Besides paving work, we undertake each and every step that ensures the best output for your investment. Our comprehensive project plan includes:
- Excavation work
- Installation of suitable base materials
- Installation of drainage, storm water, and sanitary systems
Plus, our parking lot paving comes with a 2 years guarantee on materials and labor.
At Main Infrastructure, we’re equipped with the right technology and tools to fulfill all your project needs, whether it’s a commercial, residential, or municipal project.
As a result, we’re known for our Asphalt Paving Toronto services.
Apart from asphalt paving services, we also offer:
- Pothole Spray Patching
- Infrared Asphalt Patching
- Asphalt Crack Sealing
- Manhole/Catch Basin Repair
- Vacuum/Hydrovac
- Sweeping Services
- Pavement Management Planning
When you hire us, you get an all-inclusive set of services that not only includes fresh asphalt installations but also regular repair services.
Thus, making it easy for you to get everything you need to maintain your asphalt driveway under one roof. Our representatives are here to assist you in any of your asphalt related projects.
Call us @ +1 (416) 514 0809 for a quick walk-through of your project or consultation.
The post Most Frequently Asked Questions About Asphalt Paving appeared first on Main Infrastructure Blog.
This post first appeared on Best 7 Steps Required To Fix A Pothole Repairs In Toronto, please read the originial post: here
