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>

Is it better to cut asphalt wet or dry?

• <div><p>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. </p></div>

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Q: Can you put asphalt over loose dirt?

• <div><p>This creates a risk for your driveway to fail after <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/asphalt-curing-time.htm">asphalt curing</a> because it doesn't have a lasting bond with the surface. In order to get asphalt to perform as intended, it's necessary to prepare the dirt surface correctly first. The loose soil base under the new driveway must be compacted until it is stable enough to support the weight of the asphalt. </p></div>

Q: What’s the best type of driveway for the snow?

• <div><p>Asphalt driveways are affordable and able to withstand sub-zero temperatures. The asphalt surface makes it easy to plow snow, and it has excellent traction for slippery winter days. Another benefit: it absorbs heat from the sun and can then help to melt snow and ice more quickly than other surfaces.</p></div>

Q: What is the best material to use for a driveway?

• <div><p>Concrete is typically the best material for a driveway if you&rsquo;re looking for longevity, cost-effectiveness, and ease of maintenance. But, it&rsquo;s not ideal for areas with annual freeze-frost cycles, nor is it the most attractive option&mdash;although you can get it stamped or painted. If your location is consistently below freezing, asphalt may be a better choice. </p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Asphalt Driveway Service pros in Allen, SD

*The Angi rating for Asphalt Driveway Service companies in Allen, SD 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 Allen, SD 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 November 06, 2019

Reviewed in November 2019
Smooth as silk. The steps we needed to take to make our home warmer and more quiet were very easy.
Renewal by Andersen of Rapid City
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Reviewed in April 2016
Called company to discuss job and they hung up on me.
Bob's Professional Painting
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Reviewed in August 2014
It was done in a timely manner. With attention to detail that was outstanding.
Carlson Custom Fencing
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Reviewed in March 2014
We were too trusting. He did not submit receipts for anything. We do not know how much anything cost, except for "estimates." No idea what materials cost or labor costs. My husband and I are both in our 60's. I came from a family of contractors (we are in South Dakota and they are in Illinois)....
Kelvin McCollum
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Reviewed in March 2014
Refinishing floors, tearing out walls, replacing insulation, hanging lights, sheet rock and taping walls. Replacement windows, hanging doors. Remodeling bathrooms. Work is conscientiously done. Much Appreciated. We are asking them to do more work. They can do just about anything, but if it is...
Drobney Construction
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Reviewed in July 2013
A young man who was very knowledgeable and knew is job. Came to my house right away. <br /> Will definatly be using his services again...and recommend him. <br /> <br /> 9/8/13 Have been trying to get a hold of this company and no answer...went out of business?
Red Dog Electric LLC
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Reviewed in November 2011
We live in a small town South of Rapid City South Dakota. He was nice enough to drive down but charge mileage which I understood. This man was very professional but I was interrupted many times while on the phone because he was trying to host a radio station at the same time. The night of our...
Masters Music/MOBILE DJ
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Asphalt Driveways questions, answered by experts

This creates a risk for your driveway to fail after asphalt curing because it doesn't have a lasting bond with the surface. In order to get asphalt to perform as intended, it's necessary to prepare the dirt surface correctly first. The loose soil base under the new driveway must be compacted until it is stable enough to support the weight of the asphalt.

Asphalt driveways are affordable and able to withstand sub-zero temperatures. The asphalt surface makes it easy to plow snow, and it has excellent traction for slippery winter days. Another benefit: it absorbs heat from the sun and can then help to melt snow and ice more quickly than other surfaces.

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.

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.

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.

The Allen, SD homeowners’ guide to asphalt driveway services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

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