Pro's and Con's Of The Asphalt Driveway

An asphalt driveway is typically installed over a bed of crushed stone 4 to 6 inches thick.

The stone should be well compacted to avoid settling later.

There are a number of mixes available,but the two most common types are basic hot-mix( what they pave roads with )and oil and chip.

Hot-Mix

Is a mixture of tar and sand or gravel that is applied hot ,then using a paving machine.The workers then roll the driveway to compact and flatten the surface.

Oil and Chip

Is the hot tar they lay and then follow up with a layer of gravel which is rolled into the sticky matrix.This material is Low Maintenance,but requires a sealer every 1-2 years to (prevent) cracks and holes from water.

Pro's

Flexible and doesn't tend to crack easily.

Topcoats can be applied to renew a worn surface.

Intial cost is normally lower than concrete.

Black color tends to draw heat,to help keep drive free from ice.

Can be stamped to provide texture and decorative patterns.

Con's

Can soften under intense warm conditions.

Can be tracked into house ( especially when new or re-coated ).

Spills from your vehicle can eat into this material.

Edges need to be supported or they will break off.

Durability - 15 years or more

Driveway


Concrete Drives


Brick Drives


Gravel Drives


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