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>

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Q: Is three inches of asphalt enough depth for a driveway?

• <div><p>Three inches is a great thickness for a residential asphalt driveway that sees minimal to moderate traffic from cars, SUVs, and pickup trucks. However, a thicker driveway can better withstand the weight of a heavier vehicle, such as a trailer or a recreational vehicle. If you drive a heavy vehicle on a thin driveway, you risk cracking and damaging it.</p></div>

Q: How fast does a milled asphalt driveway set?

• <div><p>Your driveway contractor will probably recommend that you avoid driving on your new millings driveway for up to a week. Keeping pressure off the freshy applied millings will help the driveway to bind together. While the sun is helpful for binding millings, hotter weather can actually make the curing process take longer.</p></div>

Q: What is the best grade of asphalt for a driveway?

• <div><p>Since it has a smoother surface using a mixture of finer rock and sand, 41A tends to be the best asphalt grade for a driveway, especially for residential driveways. Other options are available, but more homeowners choose 41A for a smoother asphalt driveway. Talk with your asphalt driveway professional for recommendations of the best grade for your specific driveway.</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

Three inches is a great thickness for a residential asphalt driveway that sees minimal to moderate traffic from cars, SUVs, and pickup trucks. However, a thicker driveway can better withstand the weight of a heavier vehicle, such as a trailer or a recreational vehicle. If you drive a heavy vehicle on a thin driveway, you risk cracking and damaging it.

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.

Your driveway contractor will probably recommend that you avoid driving on your new millings driveway for up to a week. Keeping pressure off the freshy applied millings will help the driveway to bind together. While the sun is helpful for binding millings, hotter weather can actually make the curing process take longer.

Since it has a smoother surface using a mixture of finer rock and sand, 41A tends to be the best asphalt grade for a driveway, especially for residential driveways. Other options are available, but more homeowners choose 41A for a smoother asphalt driveway. Talk with your asphalt driveway professional for recommendations of the best grade for your specific driveway.

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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