Driveway Paving

Driveway Paving

You know your asphalt driveway probably needs paving, but you may not be sure if it's the right time or if you should do it yourself.

Paving your driveway is a big job. It is messy; it is time-consuming, and it can be dangerous if you do not know what you're doing. Plus, there is always the risk that you could make a mistake and end up with an even bigger headache.

Leave the hard work to the professionals at West Palm Beach Asphalt Paving Co. We have years of experience in asphalt driveway paving. Our team will make sure we do the job right the first time. We also offer free estimates so you can see how much money you could save by letting us take care of everything. You have to get in touch with one of our customer representatives today.

What Is Asphalt?

Asphalt is a black, sticky substance that is found in natural deposits or can be produced artificially. It is mainly comprised of bitumen, a complex mixture of chemicals derived from crude oil.

Asphalt has many uses — from parking lot paving, paving roads and driveways to roofing and waterproofing. In addition, some manufacturers also use it in the production of shingles, carpet backing, and felt paper.

Asphalt is a highly versatile material that provides many benefits. It is durable and long-lasting. Thus, making it an ideal choice for outdoor applications. In addition, it is also waterproof and resistant to sunlight, making it suitable for roofing and other waterproofing applications. Asphalt is also easy to work with, making it a popular choice for many construction projects. Overall, asphalt is a flexible, durable, and easy-to-use material that offers many commercial and residential application benefits.

Advantages of Using Asphalt Paver Driveway

Over the years, asphalt has grown in popularity among homeowners. It has become one of the most used materials in constructing driveways. But, what is in it that makes asphalt an ideal choice for building a driveway?

Below are the significant factors that make asphalt an excellent driveway paving option:

Durability

Asphalt is a mixture of aggregate (such as gravel or crushed stone), binders (such as tar or bitumen), and filler (such as sand). This combination makes asphalt extremely resistant to wear and tear, even under heavy traffic. Unlike concrete driveways, which can crack and chip over time, asphalt is designed to withstand heavyweights and extreme weather conditions. In addition, asphalt is less likely to stain than concrete, making it an ideal material for areas that experience a lot of foot traffic. With proper care and sealing, an asphalt driveway can last for decades. Also, an asphalt driveway is less susceptible to damage from freeze-thaw cycles, making them a good choice for homes in colder climates.

Versatility

Asphalt pavers are one of the most versatile driveways you can choose. We can install them quickly and easily. For added curb appeal, we can design it to your liking. We can also add color to your asphalt driveway with environmentally safe dyes. Plus, they have a wide range of benefits that make them an excellent choice for residential and commercial applications.

Easy Maintenance

Driveways made of asphalt are a popular choice for many homeowners because they provide a smooth surface for parking and are relatively easy to maintain. However, over time, your asphalt driveway can become cracked and pitted. To keep your driveway looking its best, it's important to repair cracks and potholes as soon as they appear.

Affordability

Asphalt is a popular material for driveways because it is durable and relatively inexpensive. The cost of an asphalt driveway depends on several factors, including the size and location of the driveway. An asphalt driveway typically lasts longer than concrete or gravel driveways or brick pavers, making them a more cost-effective option in the long run.

Environment-Friendly

Many home and business owners are searching for environmentally friendly ways to pave their driveways. Asphalt provides an eco-friendly option for paving. It is made from a mixture of bitumen and stone aggregate. Bitumen is a by-product of the crude oil refinement process.

It is environmentally friendly because it would otherwise be a waste product. The stone aggregate is also an eco-friendly material. It is either recycled or naturally occurring. Recycled aggregate comes from crushing old asphalt pavement or concrete. Environmentally friendly asphalt driveways are possible with recycled materials. Another advantage of using asphalt for your driveway is that we can repair and reuse it instead of being replaced.

Asphalt Driveway vs Concrete Driveway

If you are considering installing a new driveway, you may wonder whether to choose asphalt or concrete. Both materials are very popular options for both residential and commercial driveways. Like any other material, they have their pros and cons. Thus, it is vital to do your research before deciding.

For your reference, below are some key factors to consider when choosing between a concrete driveway and an asphalt driveway:

Price

Asphalt driveways are less expensive than concrete, making them a good option for budget-minded homeowners. However, they don't last as long as concrete, so you must factor in the cost of repairs and resurfacing over time. Asphalt is also more susceptible to damage from freezing temperatures, so it's not the best choice for homes in colder climates.

Installation Requirements

Asphalt driveways are easy and quick to install than concrete ones. Unlike concrete, you can drive on a new asphalt surface for at least after 24 hours. Concrete needs up to 21 days to fully cure.

Durability

In terms of durability, concrete wins hands-down. It's not uncommon for an asphalt driveway to develop cracks and uneven surfaces after just a few years, particularly if you do not maintain it properly. Concrete is much more resistant to wear and tear. Also, it would not crack or crumble over time. And if it does develop any cracks, we can quickly repair them.

Longevity

However, they do not last as long as concrete driveways. Concrete driveways usually last for up to 30 to 50 years. With proper maintenance, it can surpass a lifetime. Meanwhile, asphalt requires regular touch-ups. A well-maintained asphalt driveway can last between 25 and 30 years.

Maintenance

Asphalt driveways must be seal coated every 2-3 years to protect against weather damage. Concrete driveways require less regular maintenance but may need to be resealed every few years to maintain a like-new appearance. In terms of repair, asphalt driveways are easier to fix than concrete driveways. We can fill cracks and potholes relatively quickly, while damaged concrete usually needs complete replacement.

Ultimately, the best material for your driveway depends on your budget and preferences. If you are not sure what to choose, we recommend talking to a professional contractor who can help you make the best decision for your home.

Our Asphalt Driveway Paving Services

At West Palm Beach Asphalt Paving Co, we specialize in asphalt driveway paving. We have over 20 years of experience in the industry. We are passionate about giving our customers the best possible results. Our company uses only the highest quality materials and state-of-the-art equipment, and our team of experienced professionals is experts at getting the job done right.

Whatever your asphalt driveway paving needs are, we are here to help. You can count on us for any of the following services:

Asphalt Driveway Paving Installation

Paver driveways from West Palm Beach Asphalt Paving Co will give your home or business curb appeal that will last for years. We use only the highest quality pavers for our installations, so you can be sure your new driveway will withstand the elements and continue to look great for many years.

Our experienced paver installation professionals will work with you to choose the perfect paver style for your home or business. We will install your new asphalt paver driveway according to the highest industry standards. We stand behind our work. Thus, you can be confident we only deliver the best results.

Asphalt Driveway Paving Repair and Maintenance

If you have an existing asphalt driveway, you know it needs regular maintenance to stay in good condition. Over time, the sun and the elements can take their toll, causing cracks and other damage. That is where our high-quality driveway paving repair service comes in. We can patch up existing damage and prevent additional damage, keeping your driveway looking new for years to come. And because we use only the best materials, you can be confident that our repairs will stand the test of time.

Asphalt Driveway Installation Process

Asphalt driveway installation is not a do-it-yourself project. You will need to hire a professional asphalt contractor to do the job. Otherwise, instead of saving money, you might end up spending more than you should. The installation involves a multi-step process. In our case, it includes the following steps:

Step 1: Demolition and Removal of Existing Surface

The first step in the process is the demolition and removal of the existing surface. We do this either by hand or with heavy machinery. The tools we use will depend on the size and scope of the project. Once we remove the old surface, the next step is excavating the area to create a stable base for the new pavement. This step is critical to ensuring a long-lasting, durable driveway.

Step 2: Grading and Sloping

Before we can lay any asphalt, we need to grade and slope the area where we will install the driveway. This is crucial to ensure proper drainage. We will grade the ground so that it slopes away from any buildings or other structures on the property.

Step 3: Sub-Base Preparation

Proper sub-base preparation is one of the essential steps in installing a new asphalt paver driveway. The sub-base is the material layer that lies underneath the asphalt and supports the pavement. We typically use compacted gravel, crushed stone, or sand. To ensure a long-lasting driveway, we must ensure that we properly prepare the sub-base. This normally involves excavating the area to a depth of 8-10 inches and then compacting the sub-grade material.

Step 4: Proof Roll and Binder Layer

After compacting the subgrade, we perform a proof roll to ensure that the surface is suitable for asphalt pavement. A proof roll is a test compacting of the subgrade using a heavy roller. If the subgrade is too soft, it cannot support the weight of the asphalt pavement and will need to be corrected before proceeding. Once the subgrade has been deemed suitable, we install a binder layer. The binder layer is a thin layer of hot asphalt that helps to bond the base layer to the subgrade.

Step 5: New Asphalt Installation

In the next and most crucial step, we install a base layer of hot mix asphalt. The base layer is typically 3-4 inches thick and serves as the foundation for the pavement. Once we have compacted the base layer, we install a last layer of asphalt. The final layer can be smooth or textured, depending on the desired finish. Then, we roll the pavement using a large roller to ensure proper compaction and to create a smooth, even surface.

Step 6: Curing

The curing process is crucial to ensuring a long-lasting, high-quality asphalt driveway. After we apply and compact the last layer of asphalt, we spray a light mist of water over the surface. This helps to cool the asphalt and prevent it from drying too quickly. The curing process also helps to bind the asphalt together, making it less likely to crack or chip. After the initial spraying, the driveway will need to be covered with straw or burlap to provide additional insulation. Usually, asphalt paving driveways should be ready for foot traffic after 24 hours. But the entire curing process can take up to four weeks. We assure you it is well worth the wait! An adequately cured asphalt driveway will be solid and durable, providing years of trouble-free use.

Step 7: Trimming and Sealing

The ultimate step in our asphalt driveway installation process is trimming and sealing. First, we cut the edges of the driveway with a power edger. This helps to create a neat, clean appearance and also helps to prevent the asphalt from cracking. Next, we seal the entire driveway surface with a professional-grade sealant. This provides a protective layer against the elements and helps to keep the asphalt looking new for years to come. The entire process usually takes just a few hours. Once complete, you will have a beautiful, durable surface that will last for many years. Finally, we sweep up any remaining asphalt and dispose of it. Once these steps are complete, your new driveway is ready to use!