How thick should an asphalt driveway be?

• <div><p>An asphalt driveway should be at least 3 inches thick over a compacted gravel base. Areas with poor drainage should have a thicker stone base. To <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-does-it-cost-install-asphalt-driveway.htm">install a new asphalt driveway</a> over an existing driveway, the new asphalt should be at least 2 inches thick and the existing driveway should be in relatively good condition.</p></div>

Is recycled asphalt better than gravel?

• <div><p>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. </p></div>

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Q: What are some gravel alternatives for driveways?

• <div><p>Common alternatives to a gravel driveway include concrete, asphalt, brick, stone pavers, and permeable pavers. Concrete and asphalt are generally the most affordable options. However, concrete can be prone to cracking in cold climates, while asphalt may soften in areas with high heat and direct sun exposure. For enhanced curb appeal, brick, stone, and permeable pavers are popular choices, though their installation can be more expensive due to intricate designs. Stone pavers offer a natural look and are sometimes installed with gravel around them. Both permeable pavers and brick driveways provide excellent drainage, which helps prevent flooding and reduce water runoff.</p></div>

Q: What is the best material for steep driveways?

• <div><p>Several materials are suitable for steep driveways. Gravel and crushed stone are affordable options that provide good traction. Permeable pavers&mdash;such as plastic, rubber, or concrete&mdash;filled with gravel or crushed stones are also excellent, as they allow water to drain without causing erosion and perform well in ice and snow. Another option is resin, which can be coated with an anti-slip finish and helps prevent puddles. For added stability, you can install a retaining wall to prevent pavers and gravel from shifting over time.</p></div>

Q: What’s the optimal temperature for asphalt to dry and cure the fastest?

• <div><p>Asphalt dries and cures best between 50 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. This range allows moisture to evaporate quickly without causing the asphalt to cool too fast, which can negatively affect the drying process. However, keep in mind that other weather conditions can also affect curing and drying times, such as precipitation and humidity.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Asphalt Driveway Service pros in Royal, AR

*The Angi rating for Asphalt Driveway Service companies in Royal, AR is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Asphalt Driveway Service needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Asphalt Driveway Service companies in Royal, AR is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Asphalt Driveway Service needs.

Last update on March 30, 2025

Reviewed in March 2025
Paul Smith was great to work with. He is knowledgeable, a great craftsman and explains everything so that a layman can understand. Paul and his crew paved our entire driveway and did a good job.
Smith Paving & Maintenance
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Reviewed in January 2025
Dirt Lion exceeded all expectations. He was booked through February but squeezed me in by working into the night. His expertise in road work ca not be beat. Like most of you I do not like giving reviews , but I will go out of my way to recommend Dirt Lion to everyone and for all excavating...
Dirt Lion, LLC
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Reviewed in March 2023
They have all the right equipment for the job and also used hot asphalt instead of cold.They know what they are doing.
David's Affordable Asphalt
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Reviewed in August 2021
The vinyl siding, driveway and the sidewalk leading to my front door all look brand new. Very professional, respectful and all around great experience.
JK Power Spray, LLC
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Reviewed in December 2019
Chris and his crew were very professional. They covered all bushes and our driveway to protect our property. The roof is done very well.
Prime Roofing
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Reviewed in July 2017
One of the problems i have had with Home Advisor is the people just show up when ever they want to or not all. Never did get someone to do the floors, the trees, the carport, the driveway or the emergency generator. At least Rosales will come do the lawn, with enough begging.
Rosales Lawn Service
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Reviewed in April 2017
Elite Concrete, was very easy to work with. Monroe had our driveway done within a week from the time I contacted him. His work is beautiful.
Elite Concrete, Inc.
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Reviewed in March 2017
Could not ask for a better crew of guys! I now have a fantastic driveway that used to be dirt and gravel. They worked into the darkness to get finished. They are always accessible for any questions you may have, even after the job is finished. I will definitely use this crew again.
Big Dog Blacktop
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Reviewed in December 2015
I was very pleased with Jim's work.I couldn't ask for a better job. Jim and his men were very meticulous with taking care of my driveway repairs. I definitely would use him again and highly recommend him.
Flagstone Concrete
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Reviewed in February 2014
Contacted Tru Cut and they gave me an estimate within 24hrs. As I requested (hoping more leaves would fall), they waited one week to do the work. We have a steep driveway with water run-off "ditches" on either side that go behind the garage and down to the lake. They cleaned the ditches, our...
Andrew's Landscaping and Lawn Maintenance
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Find Asphalt driveway pros in Royal

Arkansas’Asphaltman llc

4.8(

)

Serving Royal, AR and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2008

Free estimates

Warranties offered

"I liked the job he did. I was perfectly satisfied with what he did. The price was fair. I liked the job he did."

17 neighbors recently requested a quote

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Serving Royal, AR and surrounding areas

In business since 2005

Free estimates

"Everything went excellent. From a fast initial response, to the prep work being finished, to my driveway bring repaved. If you need your driveway paved, I would recommend VBA."

+10

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Serving Royal, AR and surrounding areas

In business since 2000

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"He was great. He did what he said he was gonna do."

+12

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Joshua Jeffery Seal Coat Specialist

5.0(

)

Serving Royal, AR and surrounding areas

In business since 2013

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"Excellent. Joshua was professional, great customer service and quality of work was by all means Excellent. Will definitely use Joshua for my next SealCoating."

+12

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Kannady Contracting, Inc.

5.0(

)

Serving Royal, AR and surrounding areas

In business since 1995

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"They have done a couple jobs for me and its always been great work."

Response time7 hrs

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Mega Movers Builders and Developers, Inc.

5.0(

)

Serving Royal, AR and surrounding areas

In business since 1971

"Extremely professional, punctual, great company."

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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DLC Masonry

New to Angi

Serving Royal, AR and surrounding areas

In business since 2021

Free estimates

Offers commercial services

DLC Masonry is dedicated to providing our customers with the best quality and craftsmanship. We are here to build relationships with our customers and communities and to provide our employees with a great place to work. We look forward to working with you.

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Asphalt Driveways questions, answered by experts

An asphalt driveway should be at least 3 inches thick over a compacted gravel base. Areas with poor drainage should have a thicker stone base. To install a new asphalt driveway over an existing driveway, the new asphalt should be at least 2 inches thick and the existing driveway should be in relatively good condition.

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.

Common alternatives to a gravel driveway include concrete, asphalt, brick, stone pavers, and permeable pavers. Concrete and asphalt are generally the most affordable options. However, concrete can be prone to cracking in cold climates, while asphalt may soften in areas with high heat and direct sun exposure. For enhanced curb appeal, brick, stone, and permeable pavers are popular choices, though their installation can be more expensive due to intricate designs. Stone pavers offer a natural look and are sometimes installed with gravel around them. Both permeable pavers and brick driveways provide excellent drainage, which helps prevent flooding and reduce water runoff.

Several materials are suitable for steep driveways. Gravel and crushed stone are affordable options that provide good traction. Permeable pavers—such as plastic, rubber, or concrete—filled with gravel or crushed stones are also excellent, as they allow water to drain without causing erosion and perform well in ice and snow. Another option is resin, which can be coated with an anti-slip finish and helps prevent puddles. For added stability, you can install a retaining wall to prevent pavers and gravel from shifting over time.

Asphalt dries and cures best between 50 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. This range allows moisture to evaporate quickly without causing the asphalt to cool too fast, which can negatively affect the drying process. However, keep in mind that other weather conditions can also affect curing and drying times, such as precipitation and humidity.

The Royal, AR homeowners’ guide to asphalt driveway services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

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