Asphalt is commonly used in driveways because it is durable, cheap and easy to maintain. The price of asphalt paving may however vary depending on a variety of factors. When you intend to resurface or install an asphalt driveway, it is good to know what goes into the overall cost. We will discuss factors that influence the price of asphalt paving, what the price range normally appears, and how you can receive the best value of the money below.
Understanding Asphalt Paving Costs
The cost of asphalt paving of driveways normally varies between 3 and 6 dollars per square foot. Depending on a few vital aspects such as the size of the driveway, the complexity of the project and your location, the price can go up or down.
The Driveway Area: The bigger the driveway the more materials needed and the more labor and therefore the higher the cost.
Project Complexity: Driveways that are complex in designs, slopes or terrain that is uneven might need extra effort.
Location: The costs may also differ depending on the location since some areas have more expensive labor or lack materials.
Factors Affecting Asphalt Paving Costs
The price you pay on asphalt paving depends on several factors. The knowledge of these factors can assist you in making a more reasonable estimate of the cost and a reasonable decision.
Size and Dimensions of the Driveway
The largest cost factor is the size of your driveway. The price of asphalt per square foot is considered, thus the bigger an area, the more it is going to cost.
Here’s a rough breakdown of what you can expect:
Single-Car Driveway (10 feet x 20 feet): It costs between $600 and 1200 dollars.
Two-Car Driveway (20 feet x 20 feet): 1200-2400 dollars.
Longer or Bigger Driveways: Depending on the area to be paved, the cost may be between 2000 and 10000 dollars or even more.
Thickness of the Asphalt
Driveways that are subject to heavier traffic or carry heavier vehicles usually need thicker asphalt. The heavier the asphalt layers you put the more material you will consume and the higher the cost will be. A normal asphalt driveway may consist of one or two layers, although where there is more traffic like a commercial property or a house with large trucks, you will require thicker asphalt.
Additional Preparation and Site Work
The surface of your driveway is also a factor that contributes largely to the total cost. In other instances, the current surface might have to be cleared, and a new foundation layer might have to be placed before the asphalt is laid. This may increase the total cost by a margin of 1 to 3 dollars per square foot.
Removal of Existing Driveway: In case you are replacing an outdated driving, the removal costs will be between 1 to 2 dollars per square feet.
Base Layer: It may involve adding gravel or stone base layer at the cost of approximately 1-3 dollars per square foot.
Driveway Features and Design
Simple, straight driveways are the most affordable to pave. But, when your driveway is curvy, has more than one entrance or it is decorated, the job becomes more complicated and this may make the costs soar. Curved edges, slopes and drainage systems increase labor and material costs, since extra effort and accuracy is needed.
Costs for Sealcoating and Maintenance
After paving your driveway, it is very necessary to maintain it regularly to prolong the life of asphalt. Sealcoating is a coating that is placed on top of the asphalt to prevent the damage of weather, oil spills and other dangerous factors. Although this does not directly influence the cost of installation, you should consider it in your long-term budget.
Sealcoating Cost: The usual cost is between 0.15 and 0.30 dollars per square foot. It is normally carried out after every 2 to 3 years so as to preserve the durability of the driveway.
Maintenance Costs: Minor repairs and patching of the cracks may cost an average of 100 to 300 dollars on a standard driveway.
Price Comparison: Asphalt vs. Other Paving Options
Compared with other forms of driveway material such as concrete or bricks, asphalt is usually cheaper.
Let us compare asphalt to other popular paving choices in a short moment:
Concrete: The estimated cost of concrete driveways ranges between 4 to 15 dollars per square feet depending on the style and finish. Concrete is more durable but also more expensive.
Gravel: Gravel is the most affordable driveway, and it costs about 1 to 3 dollars per square foot. But they have to be maintained more and they do not provide the same beauty as asphalt.
Pavers: Pavers are available at a cost of between 5 and 15 dollars per square foot and the more expensive paver stones escalate the cost further. Pavers cost a lot of money and are labor-intensive, even though they offer a distinct aesthetic.
Getting the Best Value for Your Money
When you want to get the best out of your asphalt driveway, these are some of the things you should remember:
Get Multiple Quotes
It is always advisable to request a number of quotes before tying yourself to any paving company. This will enable you to do a price and service comparison and you will be able to get a contractor that suits your budget and needs.
Consider Timing
Paving in the off season, be it fall or early spring, may save you cash since contractors are more than willing to offer a lower rate when they are not as busy. Moreover, asphalt may be less expensive when you do not pursue construction during peak season.
Long-Term Maintenance
Be sure to include maintenance and sealcoating cost in your budget. The maintenance will ensure that you do not have to undergo costly repairs in future.