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>

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Q: What are the three main types of asphalt?

• <div><p>The three most common types of asphalt are hot asphalt, MC cold mix, and UPM asphalt. Hot asphalt is used most often for paving and patching roadways while it&rsquo;s hot and workable. MC cold mix asphalt cures more slowly than hot asphalt, but it can be used for temporary patches and repairs in low-traffic areas. UPM is also used cold, but it can be used as a longer-term fix, usable in almost any conditions at almost any temperature.</p></div>

Q: What is the best material to use for a driveway?

• <div><p>Concrete is typically the best material for a driveway if you&rsquo;re looking for longevity, cost-effectiveness, and ease of maintenance. But, it&rsquo;s not ideal for areas with annual freeze-frost cycles, nor is it the most attractive option&mdash;although you can get it stamped or painted. If your location is consistently below freezing, asphalt may be a better choice. </p></div>

Q: How much does 1,500 square feet of asphalt cost?

• <div><p>The average cost of 1,500 square feet of asphalt ranges from about <b>$10,500 to $22,500</b>, depending on location, thickness, base material, and how accessible the job site is to crews and equipment. Keep in mind that your asphalt material cost may vary depending on its type, ranging from porous asphalt to heated blacktop. Standard asphalt costs $7 to $13 per square foot.</p></div>

Q: What is the best grade of asphalt?

• <div><p>There&rsquo;s no single best asphalt grade&mdash;it all comes down to where and how it&rsquo;s used. Highways and heavy-traffic roads need something tough, like polymer-modified asphalt (PMA) or Stone Matrix Asphalt (SMA). Local roads and parking lots rely on the Performance Graded (PG) system, chosen based on climate. A PG 64-28 mix, for example, handles a broad temperature range while simpler, more cost-effective mixes are typically enough for residential driveways. The best grade of asphalt depends on traffic, weather, and your budget, which is why a professional&rsquo;s input is always a smart move before making a decision.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Asphalt Driveway Service pros in Ketchum, ID

*The Angi rating for Asphalt Driveway Service companies in Ketchum, ID 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 Ketchum, ID 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 January 30, 2026

Reviewed in January 2026
Dan led a complex mixed use new construction project for us in Ketchum, ID. From start to finish, he was incredibly responsive, proactive, and easy to communicate with. He approaches challenges thoughtfully and can craft solutions that are both creative and practical. Beyond his work ethic, he’s...
Freesia Construction LLC
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Reviewed in May 2025
Diane is the most honest, dependable, and ethical appraiser I've ever worked with. I recommend her because she'll exceed your expectations. She takes her work seriously, and she has a complete understanding of appraisals. I highly recommend.
Diane Brandt
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Reviewed in November 2024
R&R repaired brick work around our garage and multiple pillars along our fence line. They were professional, reliable and did excellent work. Would readily recommend and hire again.
R&R Masonry
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Reviewed in June 2024
BJ (owner) showed up right on time, fully explained everything to me, adequately answered all of my questions and conducted the project with great skill and aplomb! After the work was completed, two faucets in my house weren't functioning very well due to the water having been shut off during...
Pro Style Landscaping & Maintenance
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Reviewed in May 2024
Beau W, Nikita S, and Jim D were a delight to have in our home. They were on time,very communicative. They kept the work space organized and clean. We really appreciated the walk through when the install was finished. The windows are beautiful. We would recommend this team and Renewal by...
Renewal by Andersen of Boise
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Reviewed in June 2023
They were respective of my time, professional, and communicated with me to let me know when they would arrive. The arrived on time and completed the job to my satisfaction. I would highly recommend them.
Hawks Tree Service
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Reviewed in June 2023
Attention to detail, professional equipment, courteous. DidnÃ¢Â Â t skip corners, timely, great cleanup. Will use him again.
Luis Painting Company
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Reviewed in April 2022
Came on emergency short notice and fixed the issue in 14 mins. Rick did a great job. Thanks.
Wilro Plumbers, LLC
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Reviewed in April 2022
I donâ t know that the work is great,but the service was terrific so I assume they did a great jobâ ¦didnâ t climb onto the roof to see!!!
208 Roof Repair
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Reviewed in September 2021
Service and quality were excellent.
Innovative Construction, LLC
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Find Asphalt driveway pros in Ketchum

HavenHub Home Services

1.0(

)

Serving Ketchum, ID and surrounding areas

Approved (Corporate)

In business since 2023

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

At HavenHub, we're more than just a home service company we're your trusted partner in creating havens of comfort and joy. Specializing in several verticals such as Turf and Landscaping, Roofing and Concrete solutions, we bring expertise and dedication to every project we undertake. What sets us apart is our commitment to putting our customers first. From the moment you engage us, you'll receive a world class experience with us. Whether it's transforming your outdoor space into a lush oasis or ensuring your indoor climate is just right, we're here to make it happen. At HavenHub, your satisfaction and peace of mind are our top priorities, and we're honored to be a part of your home journey. Welcome to the HavenHub family, where your home is our passion.\n

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All-Brite Services LLC

4.2(

)

Serving Ketchum, ID and surrounding areas

In business since 1981

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"They were great and and they always does."

Recommended by87%of homeowners

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A Simpson Contracting

5.0(

)

Serving Ketchum, ID and surrounding areas

In business since 1987

Free estimates

A Simpson Contracting is the premier professional company offering residential services to our clients in the Boise area. We are known to pay exquisite attention to detail while making your satisfaction our number one priority.\n\nPlease call us today to schedule your appointment with Idaho's true professionals at work for you!\n

Response time3 days

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Hampton Enterprise LLC

3.7(

)

Serving Ketchum, ID and surrounding areas

In business since 1989

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"I only use James when I need some work done to my house. He responds fast, gets the work done quicker than just about anyone else I've ever used and seems very concerned with leaving his customers happy."

Recommended by60%of homeowners

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Pave The Asphalt

New to Angi

Serving Ketchum, ID and surrounding areas

In business since 2017

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

We invite you to experience a tradition of customer satisfaction that will exceed your greatest expectations. Our professionalism and quality workmanship will accurately reflect your taste and lifestyle. From conception to completion, we work with you until the job is done. We are ethical, honest, and easy to communicate with. \n\nCall us today you'll be pleased you did. Thank you\n

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Property One Lawn Care

0.5(

)

Serving Ketchum, ID and surrounding areas

In business since 2014

Free estimates

Welcome to Property One Lawn Care. We have been in business since 1995 and pride ourselves in the quality of our work and the satisfaction of our customers. With our extensive experience, you can trust we'll get the job done right the first time and in a timely manner. Serving Weiser, ID, no job is too large. We look forward to earning your business. Call today!

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Belco

New to Angi

Serving Ketchum, ID and surrounding areas

In business since 1996

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

We are a locally owned and operated company that values honesty and integrity and treats your home as if it were our own. We offer a variety of services that are customizable to each individual project. You will find us to be competitively priced, paying close attention to the details of each and every project that we are involved with. We look forward to building lasting relationships and guarantee your satisfaction!

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Aslett Construction Company

5.0(

)

Serving Ketchum, ID and surrounding areas

In business since 2017

Free estimates

"His fast, professional,no additional charge!"

Response time7 hrs

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Serving Ketchum, ID and surrounding areas

In business since 2022

Free estimates

We are a local contractor varying in many different areas from concrete to metal barn buildings or just buildings in general. If you need the inside of your home rebooted we got you on that as well from painting to dry wall to fixing furnaces. If you want top notch then Top Notch Structurez,LLC is the business for you.\n

+84

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Elk Ridge Improvements LLC

New to Angi

Serving Ketchum, ID and surrounding areas

In business since 2022

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

Septic Systems\nExcavation \nBackfill and grading \nConcrete prep work \nSite work \nPonds and Impoundments\n\n

Stage two of a customer’s low cost wetland impoundment for waterfowl. Here we are in the process of tilling and smoothing out the spoils of the excavation process and spreading native grass seed as well as a wetland waterfowl seed mix.

Stage one of a customer’s low cost wetland impoundment for waterfowl.

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Showing 1-10 of 16

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.

The three most common types of asphalt are hot asphalt, MC cold mix, and UPM asphalt. Hot asphalt is used most often for paving and patching roadways while it’s hot and workable. MC cold mix asphalt cures more slowly than hot asphalt, but it can be used for temporary patches and repairs in low-traffic areas. UPM is also used cold, but it can be used as a longer-term fix, usable in almost any conditions at almost any temperature.

Concrete is typically the best material for a driveway if you’re looking for longevity, cost-effectiveness, and ease of maintenance. But, it’s not ideal for areas with annual freeze-frost cycles, nor is it the most attractive option—although you can get it stamped or painted. If your location is consistently below freezing, asphalt may be a better choice.

The average cost of 1,500 square feet of asphalt ranges from about $10,500 to $22,500, depending on location, thickness, base material, and how accessible the job site is to crews and equipment. Keep in mind that your asphalt material cost may vary depending on its type, ranging from porous asphalt to heated blacktop. Standard asphalt costs $7 to $13 per square foot.

There’s no single best asphalt grade—it all comes down to where and how it’s used. Highways and heavy-traffic roads need something tough, like polymer-modified asphalt (PMA) or Stone Matrix Asphalt (SMA). Local roads and parking lots rely on the Performance Graded (PG) system, chosen based on climate. A PG 64-28 mix, for example, handles a broad temperature range while simpler, more cost-effective mixes are typically enough for residential driveways. The best grade of asphalt depends on traffic, weather, and your budget, which is why a professional’s input is always a smart move before making a decision.

The Ketchum, ID homeowners’ guide to asphalt driveway services

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

See all articles

Timothy Moore
•
Apr 16, 2026Apr 16, 2026
How Much Does an Asphalt Driveway Cost? [2026 Data]
Calculate the cost of installing a new asphalt driveway based on dimensions, depth, finishes, and other custom driveway details.
Rachel Hoffman
•
Jul 15, 2026Jul 15, 2026
How Much Does Asphalt Driveway Repair Cost in 2026?
Asphalt driveway repair costs account for everything from hairline cracks to complete overhauls. Learn what to expect from your asphalt repair bill.
Rachel Hoffman
•
May 30, 2026May 30, 2026
How Much Does It Cost to Pave a Driveway? [2026 Data]
The average cost to pave a driveway is $4,897, but prices vary by size and material. This guide breaks down common cost factors and helps you budget.
Lawrence Bonk
•
Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 2026
How Long Does an Asphalt Driveway Last? And Tips to Extend Its Lifespan
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.
Dan Simms
•
Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 2026
Asphalt vs. Concrete Driveways: Which Is Right for You?
Which one is better for your home, an asphalt or concrete driveway? Learn the difference in initial installation, pros and cons, and follow-up costs.
Jouviane Alexandre
•
Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 2026
6 Types Of Asphalt for Driveways
Choosing the right asphalt is key to a long-lasting surface. Find out which mix works best for roads, driveways, and heavy-traffic areas.