Q: What are the main alternatives to recycled asphalt for my driveway?

• <div>If you&rsquo;re looking for a similar, eco-friendly driveway material, you might consider one of these options:<ul><li>Permeable pavement: This material is sometimes called &ldquo;pervious&rdquo; or &ldquo;porous&rdquo; pavement; it allows stormwater to drain into the subbase, eliminating storm drain costs. </li><li>Gravel: Consider paving your driveway with locally sourced gravel. By sourcing from a nearby source, your money won&rsquo;t fund international shipping and will be invested back into your local community.</li><li>Natural stone pavers: Because natural stone pavers are made from organically-produced stone, there&rsquo;s no new manufacturing required, limiting the environmental impact. In addition, water easily flows and drains through the gaps in the pavers.</li></ul></div>

Question 1

What is the cheapest way to extend a driveway?

Accepted Answer

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Gravel is the cheapest way to extend a driveway. Gravel is an affordable, practical option that’s easy to install and perfect for DIY projects, helping you save on labor costs. It can be quickly spread and leveled to create extra driveway space without heavy preparation. While gravel doesn’t offer the same durability or finished look as concrete or asphalt, its low cost makes it ideal for budget-conscious homeowners who want a functional solution without overspending.

Question 2

What is an ideal driveway gradient?

Accepted Answer

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An ideal driveway gradient is between 2% and 5%. Anything lower than 1% or higher than 15% can cause problems for your car or property. A driveway with less than a 1% slope increases your likelihood of flooding and water damage, while a driveway with a 15% grade or higher can be too steep for safe traveling.

Question 3

What is the lifespan of asphalt pavement?

Accepted Answer

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You can expect your asphalt pavement to last anywhere from 20 to 30 years, or 25 years on average. The life expectancy of your asphalt driveway depends on the climate, the amount of traffic, and how well you maintain it. While you can’t necessarily control some of these factors, you can control the amount of maintenance effort you put into your driveway.

To prevent your asphalt from deteriorating prematurely, you should follow a good maintenance routine involving regular cleaning, reparation work, and resealing.

Question 4

What are the main alternatives to recycled asphalt for my driveway?

Accepted Answer

•

If you’re looking for a similar, eco-friendly driveway material, you might consider one of these options:

Permeable pavement: This material is sometimes called “pervious” or “porous” pavement; it allows stormwater to drain into the subbase, eliminating storm drain costs.
Gravel: Consider paving your driveway with locally sourced gravel. By sourcing from a nearby source, your money won’t fund international shipping and will be invested back into your local community.
Natural stone pavers: Because natural stone pavers are made from organically-produced stone, there’s no new manufacturing required, limiting the environmental impact. In addition, water easily flows and drains through the gaps in the pavers.

Question 5

Should I winterize a newly installed driveway?

Accepted Answer

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You should contact your driveway installer before winterizing a newly installed driveway. Winterizing it before the asphalt or concrete has fully cured can damage the driveway. But in many cases, you don't need to winterize a newly installed driveway anyway since it's likely freshly sealed and won't have much damage yet.