Is it better to resurface or replace an asphalt driveway?

• <div><p>Whether you should resurface or replace your asphalt driveway heavily depends on its condition. If the foundation is solid and the damage is minor, resurfacing is your best bet because it’s more affordable and faster than replacing the driveway. But if your driveway has foundational problems and/or severe damage, like large, deep cracks and potholes, then it makes more sense to replace it. </p></div>

What questions should you ask an asphalt driveway contractor?

• <div><p>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:</p><ul><li><p>How many years of experience do you have?</p></li><li><p>Are you licensed, bonded, and insured?</p></li><li><p>Do you have worker’s compensation?</p></li><li><p>Do you use subcontractors on your projects?</p></li><li><p>Do you clean up after the job is done?</p></li><li><p>Who is responsible for any damage to lawn or landscaping?</p></li><li><p>Do you provide a guarantee or warranty on your work?</p></li><li><p>Do you give free estimates?</p></li><li><p>What is the timeline for completion?</p></li><li><p>How do you handle change orders?</p></li><li><p>Can you provide at least three references?</p></li><li><p>Can I see some of the work you’ve done?</p></li></ul><p></p></div>

Get matched with top asphalt driveway pros in Thatcher, AZ

Q: What’s the difference between asphalt and blacktop?

• <div><p>While blacktop is a type of asphalt, the terms should not be used interchangeably, as not all asphalt qualifies as blacktop. The primary differences are in their composition, production process, and ideal applications. Blacktop contains more stone than other types of asphalt and is heated to a higher temperature during production&mdash;300&deg;F or more&mdash;while hot-mix asphalt is heated to between 275&deg;F and 300&deg;F. The ratio of bitumen (a tar-like crude oil) is a key differentiator, though sources vary: some state blacktop has less bitumen, making it less durable, while others claim it has a higher ratio. Due to these differences, asphalt is generally more durable and better for high-traffic areas like highways and streets, while blacktop is more suitable for playgrounds and residential driveways. For a driveway project, it is best to consult a professional to determine the most appropriate material.</p></div>

Q: How long does it take for new asphalt to dry and cure?

• <div><p>New asphalt goes through two stages: drying and curing. Drying typically takes 24 to 72 hours, after which the surface is solid enough for light use like walking or careful driving. While you may be able to park on it after 72 hours, the surface is still soft and should be treated gently. Full curing is a much longer process, taking anywhere from 30 days to a full year for the asphalt to reach maximum strength. During this extended curing period, the asphalt is susceptible to damage from heavy vehicles, sharp objects, and high temperatures. Factors like weather, the specific asphalt mix, and application thickness all influence drying and curing times. For the most accurate timeline and to ensure the longevity of your new asphalt, it is always best to consult with your installation contractor for their specific recommendations.</p></div>

Q: What is asphalt made of?

• <div><p>Asphalt is made of aggregate materials (sand, rocks, and gravel) and bitumen, a viscous, petroleum-based, waterproof substance. These materials are mixed together at extremely high temperatures to form asphalt.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Asphalt Driveway Service pros in Thatcher, AZ

*The Angi rating for Asphalt Driveway Service companies in Thatcher, AZ 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 Thatcher, AZ 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 June 26, 2025

Reviewed in June 2025
This job was done on time and the finish product was excellent.
Dreamstyle Remodeling of New Mexico
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Reviewed in December 2024
I recently had a new concrete driveway installed, and I am extremely impressed with the quality of work! From start to finish, the entire process was smooth and professional. The team was punctual, courteous, and highly skilled, taking the time to explain every step of the process and addressing...
Desert View Contracting
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Reviewed in August 2024
Work was very smooth! They came out right about and dried everything out from the broken pipe and the build back went significantly smoother than I anticipated. Andrew and Ethan were very professional as well as all the help they had during the process.
Legacy Pro Restoration
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Reviewed in July 2024
They did an excellent job showed up in time very professional and polite. Answers my questions and finished in a timely manner. Highly recommend this company to everyone needing dirt work done.
JJ’s Precision Excavation
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Reviewed in July 2024
Cale was very professional and quick to get back to me. I extended the area I wanted poured right before he planned to start and he was flexible and easy to work with. I'm very happy with my patio and sidewalk. I'd 100% recommend him to anyone needing concrete.
American Concrete Placement LLC
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Reviewed in December 2023
I am happy to the moon with my recent carpet cleaning! He thoroughly made old pet stains disappear; dirt & years of grime are all gone. My carpet looks brand new!!! I would recommend this service to everyone. Thank you Bryan. Irene D-Safford.
AAA Restoration & Carpet Cleaning
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Reviewed in June 2022
Michael was timely and worked very hard to clean my drive way. He took some nasty stains on my driveway and brought them down significantly, He also made a recommendation for additional cleaner to put on my drive way to take the stain down over time. It was money well spent and I am very...
MJP Pressure Washing
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Reviewed in June 2022
We were buying our home and wanted a third party company test to see if there is mold before we closed. We did not want a company that treats mold as we have found them to be untrustworthy in the past and quick to diagnose mold and treat. Luckily she did not find any mold after doing a very...
Tucson Mold Inspectors
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Reviewed in January 2021
Grass Kings did a great job and cleaning out my rock landscape, it was really bad and now it looks terrific. I will use them again! They also cut back my tree limbs.
Grass Kings, LLC
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Reviewed in April 2014
<p>Because Ross Ferrin does his own estimates and job planning and does not delegate it, it took a couple of weeks to get an estimate, but he showed up, inspected and left. His estimate arrived within a week of the inspection, and was 50% down, and 50% on completion. Once the contract was...
Ferrin's State Roofing Company, Inc
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Find Asphalt driveway pros in Thatcher

APS Chip Seal & Paving

4.8(

)

Serving Thatcher, AZ and surrounding areas

Approved

Super Service Award Winner

In business since 2006

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Driveway is done!! They took it from a camper on grass and rocks, falling apart driveway, crumbling parking pad to a gorgeous solid camper pad, parking pad, flat, no standing water on the driveway area. Leonard and the entire crew was the friendliest, most professional group, they worked hard, showed up when agreed on, finished quickly and gave me a “walk around” to make sure it met my standards before leaving. I got to meet the owner several times, he treated us like he’d known us forever each time we talked. I would definitely recommend APS Chip Seal & Paving."

10 neighbors recently requested a quote

Recommended by97%of homeowners

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Aaron Trail Contracting Inc

5.0(

)

Serving Thatcher, AZ and surrounding areas

In business since 2008

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Nothing but a positive experience from Aaron Trail. Very easy to communicate with. Very prompt, kept all appointments. The new paint looks amazing and just the colors we selected. All stucco repairs that were made were blended so well, there is no way to tell where the original issues were! I already have recommended them to friends and family, I will continue to do so. Very happy with Aaron Trail! "

we also do repairing and repainting rod iron

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Asphalt Driveways questions, answered by experts

Whether you should resurface or replace your asphalt driveway heavily depends on its condition. If the foundation is solid and the damage is minor, resurfacing is your best bet because it’s more affordable and faster than replacing the driveway. But if your driveway has foundational problems and/or severe damage, like large, deep cracks and potholes, then it makes more sense to replace it.

While blacktop is a type of asphalt, the terms should not be used interchangeably, as not all asphalt qualifies as blacktop. The primary differences are in their composition, production process, and ideal applications. Blacktop contains more stone than other types of asphalt and is heated to a higher temperature during production—300°F or more—while hot-mix asphalt is heated to between 275°F and 300°F. The ratio of bitumen (a tar-like crude oil) is a key differentiator, though sources vary: some state blacktop has less bitumen, making it less durable, while others claim it has a higher ratio. Due to these differences, asphalt is generally more durable and better for high-traffic areas like highways and streets, while blacktop is more suitable for playgrounds and residential driveways. For a driveway project, it is best to consult a professional to determine the most appropriate material.

New asphalt goes through two stages: drying and curing. Drying typically takes 24 to 72 hours, after which the surface is solid enough for light use like walking or careful driving. While you may be able to park on it after 72 hours, the surface is still soft and should be treated gently. Full curing is a much longer process, taking anywhere from 30 days to a full year for the asphalt to reach maximum strength. During this extended curing period, the asphalt is susceptible to damage from heavy vehicles, sharp objects, and high temperatures. Factors like weather, the specific asphalt mix, and application thickness all influence drying and curing times. For the most accurate timeline and to ensure the longevity of your new asphalt, it is always best to consult with your installation contractor for their specific recommendations.

Asphalt is made of aggregate materials (sand, rocks, and gravel) and bitumen, a viscous, petroleum-based, waterproof substance. These materials are mixed together at extremely high temperatures to form asphalt.

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?

The Thatcher, AZ 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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