Q: How much does it cost to pave a driveway?

• <div><a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-does-it-cost-pave-driveway.htm">Driveway paving costs</a> around $4,500 on average, but depending on many factors, you could pay anywhere from $2,500 to $6,600 or more. The size of your driveway will usually be the most significant factor, with more square footage increasing your costs. You can expect to pay between $2 and $15 per square foot for paving services. Some other factors that play a role include the following:<ul><li>Quality of the materials</li><li>Contractor&rsquo;s experience and expertise</li><li>Site preparation and grading, if necessary</li><li>Layout of your driveway</li></ul></div>

Question 1

How much does it cost to pave a driveway?

Accepted Answer

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Driveway paving costs around $4,500 on average, but depending on many factors, you could pay anywhere from $2,500 to $6,600 or more. The size of your driveway will usually be the most significant factor, with more square footage increasing your costs. You can expect to pay between $2 and $15 per square foot for paving services. Some other factors that play a role include the following:

Quality of the materials
Contractor’s experience and expertise
Site preparation and grading, if necessary
Layout of your driveway

Quality of the materials
Contractor’s experience and expertise
Site preparation and grading, if necessary
Layout of your driveway

Question 2

What is the best material to use for a driveway?

Accepted Answer

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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.

Question 3

What’s the difference between asphalt and blacktop?

Accepted Answer

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The main difference between asphalt and blacktop is that asphalt has a lower ratio of bitumen—a low-grade tar-like crude oil—than blacktop. While blacktop is heated to 300 degrees or more, hot-mix asphalt is heated to a lower temperature, typically between 275 and 300 degrees Fahrenheit. Consult an asphalt driveway professional about which type of material is the best fit for your future asphalt driveway.

Question 4

Should I seal my driveway or replace it?

Accepted Answer

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If you notice minor cosmetic problems with your driveway, you should seal it. Look out for cracks and holes on the surface, faded asphalt or concrete, and stains from oil and other chemicals. Replacing your driveway may be necessary if you’re dealing with significant problems—¼-inch cracks, large potholes, and puddles from drainage issues. The cost to install an asphalt driveway typically ranges between $4,200 and $9,000, significantly more than resealing. Consider talking to a professional to discuss whether resurfacing your driveway—a midway project between resealing and replacing—is a better option for you.

Question 5

Can I retrofit my existing driveway?

Accepted Answer

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Yes, you can retrofit an existing driveway, but this usually involves cutting grooves into the driveway, installing the heating elements, then sealing them. While this is much less expensive than typical heated driveway systems, the final appearance could be diminished. Speak with a driveway paving company to confirm which design method is best for you.