Recycled asphalt is not better than gravel, but can be a good alternative. It is inexpensive, but not as low-cost as gravel, and doesn’t tend to last as long. Recycled asphalt isn’t as dusty as gravel and is more environmentally friendly. The black look can be something that homeowners prefer. No matter what, ensure you choose an experienced recycled asphalt contractor.
It’s best to weigh the pros and cons of each material and decide on your priorities for your driveway. Gravel won’t be an appropriate choice if your driveway experiences heavy traffic. You’ll find that you need to level and top it off regularly, which could make the material a much more expensive option.
When hiring an asphalt paving contractor to install your driveway, ask as many questions up front as possible. Here are a few questions to ask a prospective driveway contractor:
How many years of experience do you have?
Are you licensed, bonded, and insured?
Do you have worker’s compensation?
Do you use subcontractors on your projects?
Do you clean up after the job is done?
Who is responsible for any damage to lawn or landscaping?
Do you provide a guarantee or warranty on your work?
Do you give free estimates?
What is the timeline for completion?
How do you handle change orders?
Can you provide at least three references?
Can I see some of the work you’ve done?
If your driveway is cracked, you can repave it with a process called asphalt overlay. Overlay is more cost-effective than a full replacement but is better suited for minor cracks and issues. If you have major cracks or other problems like water pooling, asphalt overlay isn’t your best bet. Plus, paving over a cracked driveway only extends the lifetime by about 10 years, whereas replacing it would start the clock over completely to give you up to 30 years.
If you’re looking for a similar, eco-friendly driveway material, you might consider one of these options:
Permeable pavement: This material is sometimes called “pervious” or “porous” pavement; it allows stormwater to drain into the subbase, eliminating storm drain costs.
Gravel: Consider paving your driveway with locally sourced gravel. By sourcing from a nearby source, your money won’t fund international shipping and will be invested back into your local community.
Natural stone pavers: Because natural stone pavers are made from organically-produced stone, there’s no new manufacturing required, limiting the environmental impact. In addition, water easily flows and drains through the gaps in the pavers.
The Dillingham, AK homeowners’ guide to asphalt driveway services
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
Adding a new asphalt driveway to your home can boost its overall appearance and give homeowners a nice ROI down the line. But how long do asphalt driveways last, and what can you do to maximize their lifespans? Read this guide to find out.
