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>

How much does it cost to replace a new driveway?

• <div><p>The <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-does-it-cost-pave-driveway.htm">cost to replace a driveway</a> ranges from <b>$8 to $15 per square foot</b>, depending on factors that include material, size, and labor. If your driveway has deep cracks, potholes, or drainage issues (or if it’s simply past its prime), replacement might be the smarter investment over constant repairs. Resurfacing <i>can </i>be a cheaper alternative at $3 to $20 per square foot, but it won’t fix your driveway’s underlying problems.</p></div>

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Q: What driveway is the easiest to maintain?

• <div><p>Overall, a paver driveway is considered the easiest to maintain because homeowners are able to do <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/driveway-repair-should-you-patch-resurface-or-replace.htm">driveway repair</a> one piece at a time without impacting the rest of the driveway. Unlike paved options, paver driveways contain individual stones that aren't physically connected. By comparison, you may need to reseal or redo a full asphalt driveway if just one portion sustains a significant crack.</p></div>

Q: When should I repair or replace my driveway?

• <div><p>The decision to <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/driveway-repair-should-you-patch-resurface-or-replace.htm">repair or replace your driveway</a> depends on the extent of the damage. If your driveway has a few small cracks, a simple repair will do the trick. If you see larger cracks and potholes, it may be time to consider resurfacing or replacement. Resurfacing is a great option if more than 25% of the surface is damaged, but if the damage is extensive&mdash;deep cracks or significant sinking&mdash;it&rsquo;s best to replace the driveway entirely. A new driveway, with proper care, can last decades while patching or resurfacing might only hold up for a few years before needing more attention.</p></div>

Q: How long does recycled asphalt take to harden?

• <div><p>It takes recycled asphalt 48 hours to initially harden and up to 3 months to fully cure. It&rsquo;s best to stay off of recycled asphalt for at least 48 hours, then you can walk or drive standard vehicles on it. Hold off on driving heavy trucks or equipment on it for at least 7 days. Allowing the surface to melt together and harden ensures that the surface stays durable and long-lasting. </p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Asphalt Driveway Service pros in Tower, MN

*The Angi rating for Asphalt Driveway Service companies in Tower, MN 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 Tower, MN 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 May 19, 2026

Reviewed in May 2026
Jack and Alex did a good job, answered questions, covered information well
DaBella - Minneapolis (Roofing)
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Reviewed in April 2024
I was hesitant to invest in professional carpet cleaning until I tried Daisy Fresh Carpet Cleaning. Now, I regret not doing it sooner! Their friendly staff and remarkable results have earned them a loyal customer in me. Highly recommended!!!
Daisy Fresh Carpet Cleaning
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Reviewed in March 2024
The cleaners were prompt and so thorough in their job and they took such effort in moving stuff around to actually clean all of the surfaces. Never thought seeing a clean apartment would make me so happy!!!!!
Javivere
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Reviewed in March 2024
Cleaning in my garden is long over due.. Thanks to JR Landscaping for doing such a wonderful job...
JR Landscaping
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Reviewed in May 2023
Mr. Heinrich was vary professional He trim some trees that were leaning over the back of my garage. I was very happy with the outcome, and it looked nice afterwards, and he cleaned up his entire mess left nothing behind.
Northland Tree Service LLC
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Reviewed in August 2022
Terrell was friendly and hard working and had a tricky programming project with my challenging Fob and electronic ignition coding but he solved the problem and I get exactly what I wanted at a fair price and no hassles!
Recore Key And Door. (Maintenance And Repair.) Locksmith Services, LLC
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Reviewed in June 2022
My basement had been damp for years, gradually became wetter and flooded this spring. Approve installed a sump pump which immediately flushed water when plugged in. They removed outside foundation plantings, an old tilted sidewalk all of which directed water into basement. They backfilled with...
Approve Plumbing, Inc.
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Reviewed in December 2021
They were outstanding. I expected them to plow my driveway, but was very happy when they shoveled my sidewalk and steps. Superb service.
Iron Range Constructors
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Reviewed in March 2021
Efficient, courteous and weâ d hire them again. Safely removed a large damaged lemon tree and cleared all debris beautifully.
MG Landscape
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Reviewed in January 2021
I actually enjoyed working with my sales agent, Trav, it was like we were good buddies. Easy, excellent customer service, painless install, and great workmanship. I would recommend this company to my mother.
NSS Exteriors
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Find Asphalt driveway pros in Tower

Vick's Sealcoating

3.7(

)

Serving Tower, MN and surrounding areas

In business since 2012

Free estimates

"Mr. Vick was very professional and friendly. We were impressed with the quality of his job and how it only took him one hour to finish the it. We would recommend him to anyone that needs their driveway or parking lot seal-coated.
"

Recommended by75%of homeowners

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K John Custom Homes and Remodlers

5.0(

)

Serving Tower, MN and surrounding areas

In business since 2000

"Jamey at KAC Construction was great to deal with. The gentleman who did the work on the deck was terrific. The deck looks great."

Recommended by16%of homeowners

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Earthscape stone masonry & landscape design

0.0(

)

Serving Tower, MN and surrounding areas

In business since 1997

At Earthscape, our uncompromising dedication to quality craftsmanship ensures that every project is approached individually, creating a personal masterpiece that meets the needs and expectations of our clients, from design to completion. We specialize in landscape and architectual stone masonry (interior & exterior). Examples of our work include: Fireplaces(indoor & outdoor), walls, flooring, facing, patios, and pool decks. We also make custom birch and stone furniture and furnishings. Let our team go to work and add the beauty and strength of natural stone to your home and landscape, creating your perfect little corner of the world.\n \n

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Asphalt Driveways questions, answered by experts

Overall, a paver driveway is considered the easiest to maintain because homeowners are able to do driveway repair one piece at a time without impacting the rest of the driveway. Unlike paved options, paver driveways contain individual stones that aren't physically connected. By comparison, you may need to reseal or redo a full asphalt driveway if just one portion sustains a significant crack.

The decision to repair or replace your driveway depends on the extent of the damage. If your driveway has a few small cracks, a simple repair will do the trick. If you see larger cracks and potholes, it may be time to consider resurfacing or replacement. Resurfacing is a great option if more than 25% of the surface is damaged, but if the damage is extensive—deep cracks or significant sinking—it’s best to replace the driveway entirely. A new driveway, with proper care, can last decades while patching or resurfacing might only hold up for a few years before needing more attention.

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.

It takes recycled asphalt 48 hours to initially harden and up to 3 months to fully cure. It’s best to stay off of recycled asphalt for at least 48 hours, then you can walk or drive standard vehicles on it. Hold off on driving heavy trucks or equipment on it for at least 7 days. Allowing the surface to melt together and harden ensures that the surface stays durable and long-lasting.

The cost to replace a driveway ranges from $8 to $15 per square foot, depending on factors that include material, size, and labor. If your driveway has deep cracks, potholes, or drainage issues (or if it’s simply past its prime), replacement might be the smarter investment over constant repairs. Resurfacing can be a cheaper alternative at $3 to $20 per square foot, but it won’t fix your driveway’s underlying problems.

The Tower, MN 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

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May 30, 2026May 30, 2026
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