Get matched with top asphalt driveway pros in New Roads, LA

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.

At a depth of two inches, a ton of asphalt covers around 80 to 100 square feet. However, the thicker the asphalt, the less surface area it will cover. That’s why measuring correctly is essential when estimating asphalt needs and costs to ensure you get enough material to cover your entire driveway, patio, or other asphalt surface.

Wet cutting is usually the preferred method. It controls dust, which helps protect your lungs and makes for a cleaner working environment. Plus, the water cools the blade, preventing overheating and prolonging its life while providing smoother, more precise cuts. The downside is the mess—water and asphalt sludge can be messy to clean. Dry cutting, though convenient if water isn’t available, creates a lot of dust, which can be harmful. This also increases the risk of blade damage due to overheating. So, if you have the option, wet cutting is the better method for most asphalt jobs.

Driveway aprons typically range between four and seven inches thick, though your town's building codes will likely have specific requirements. Additionally, you may need to add a layer of permeable aggregate in the excavation below your paved apron to ensure proper stormwater drainage.