Q: Is it OK to Pour Concrete Over Asphalt?

• <div><p>You can pour concrete over asphalt if it&rsquo;s in good condition, thick, stable, and well-compacted. Concrete is more durable than asphalt and can extend the lifetime of your driveway without having to pay frequent <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/asphalt-driveway-repair-cost.htm">asphalt driveway repair costs</a> or replace it completely. </p><p>But this is best reserved as a temporary solution based on budget restraints, as asphalt requires more frequent repairs and assessments than concrete. Once that concrete top is poured, it&rsquo;ll be harder to accurately understand what&rsquo;s happening beneath that layer, which could lead to more issues.</p></div>

Question 1

Is it OK to Pour Concrete Over Asphalt?

Accepted Answer

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You can pour concrete over asphalt if it’s in good condition, thick, stable, and well-compacted. Concrete is more durable than asphalt and can extend the lifetime of your driveway without having to pay frequent asphalt driveway repair costs or replace it completely.

But this is best reserved as a temporary solution based on budget restraints, as asphalt requires more frequent repairs and assessments than concrete. Once that concrete top is poured, it’ll be harder to accurately understand what’s happening beneath that layer, which could lead to more issues.

Question 2

What are the parts of the driveway approach?

Accepted Answer

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A driveway approach is the part of a driveway where the public road meets the private driveway. This section contains several key elements, including the driveway apron, the curb cut, and the end slope. Depending on the slope of the driveway, this area may also contain the trench drain.

Question 3

Why should I use asphalt for my outdoor basketball court?

Accepted Answer

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Asphalt, which is stone mixed with tar, is the most common material for outdoor basketball courts because it’s so sturdy and versatile. However, you don't have to use it: another option is polymeric rubber, which has shock pads that can prevent injury. This option is a little more expensive, ranging between $16 and $25 per square foot.

Materials used for indoor basketball courts, such as hardwoods, aren’t really an option outdoors.

Question 4

What is the difference between hardscape and paving?

Accepted Answer

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Paving is a part of hardscaping, so all paving is hardscaping, but not all hardscaping is paving. Paving involves laying down concrete or asphalt, while hardscaping can also include the use of paving stones, bricks, gravel, wood, and more. Hardscape features that involve paving are considered permanent and will increase your property taxes, while some other hardscaping features—like those involving bricks, gravel, and paving stones—will not affect property taxes. Paving also typically requires a permit, while hardscaping features considered temporary will not.

Question 5

Do asphalt companies also do tar and chip paving?

Accepted Answer

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Many asphalt companies have experience with tar and chip paving, but not all. The process is unique enough—and not incredibly common enough—that you may have to look around for a tar and chip specialist. However, speaking with a driveway company is a great place to start, especially if they have experience with multiple materials.