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>

What questions should you ask an asphalt driveway contractor?

• <div><p>When hiring an asphalt paving contractor to install your driveway, ask as many questions up front as possible. Here are a few questions to ask a prospective driveway contractor:</p><ul><li><p>How many years of experience do you have?</p></li><li><p>Are you licensed, bonded, and insured?</p></li><li><p>Do you have worker’s compensation?</p></li><li><p>Do you use subcontractors on your projects?</p></li><li><p>Do you clean up after the job is done?</p></li><li><p>Who is responsible for any damage to lawn or landscaping?</p></li><li><p>Do you provide a guarantee or warranty on your work?</p></li><li><p>Do you give free estimates?</p></li><li><p>What is the timeline for completion?</p></li><li><p>How do you handle change orders?</p></li><li><p>Can you provide at least three references?</p></li><li><p>Can I see some of the work you’ve done?</p></li></ul><p></p></div>

Get matched with top asphalt driveway pros in Memphis, TX

Q: How long does it take for new asphalt to dry and cure before it can be used?

• <div><p>New asphalt typically needs 24 to 72 hours to dry before it can handle light foot traffic and careful driving. Although it may appear solid after a few days, the full curing process, where the asphalt reaches its peak strength, takes much longer&mdash;generally from 30 days to a year.</p><p>During this extended curing time, the surface remains relatively soft and can be damaged by heavy vehicles, sharp objects, or high temperatures. To protect your investment, it's best to avoid parking heavy machinery on the asphalt until it has fully cured.</p><p>The exact time required for drying and curing depends on several factors, including the weather, the specific asphalt mix, and its thickness. For the most accurate advice tailored to your situation, consult with your asphalt contractor.</p></div>

Q: How long will a driveway last?

• <div><p>A driveway's lifespan varies by material. Asphalt driveways typically last 15 to 30 years, while concrete driveways last longer, between 20 and 50 years. The longevity of any driveway is affected by factors like extreme temperatures, heavy traffic, and the quality of maintenance. Regular upkeep, such as filling cracks, resealing the surface, and ensuring proper drainage, can help extend its life. For gravel driveways, regrading to fill in uneven areas every year or two is recommended.</p></div>

Q: How long does recycled asphalt take to harden?

• <div><p>It takes recycled asphalt 48 hours to initially harden and up to 3 months to fully cure. It&rsquo;s best to stay off of recycled asphalt for at least 48 hours, then you can walk or drive standard vehicles on it. Hold off on driving heavy trucks or equipment on it for at least 7 days. Allowing the surface to melt together and harden ensures that the surface stays durable and long-lasting. </p></div>

Enter your zip and get matched with up to 5 pros

Need a pro for your asphalt driveway service project in Memphis, TX?

Select your specific project to find the pro for you.

Verified Reviews for Asphalt Driveway Service pros in Memphis, TX

*The Angi rating for Asphalt Driveway Service companies in Memphis, TX 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 Memphis, TX 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 22, 2022

Reviewed in November 2022
They will start on the job in December.
Legacy Supportworks, LLC
Request a quote
Reviewed in June 2022
Fast, professional, with amazing communication.
Pressure Men Pressure Washing
Request a quote
Reviewed in August 2021
They arrived very quickly and did an excellent job!
Jones Overhead Doors
Request a quote
Reviewed in December 2019
They were amazing. Had ideas I would have never thought of. Very pleased. Will refer them!
Natural Water Environments
Request a quote
Reviewed in April 2016
<p>They did ok, there was some issues concerning the service contract and losing all that information. </p>
P K Construction Services LLC
Request a quote
Reviewed in July 2015
It was excellent. Pat and his crew went above and beyond. Really focused on details that other people would usually miss. Not only are the counters beautiful but the seams are practically invisible.
Bella Stone
Request a quote
Reviewed in July 2013
Technician dumped water all over employees desk, and the price is steep, but he did a good job. Kept me informed with everything he was doing, very respectful to the employees and explained what he did at the end of the job.
Leaky's Water and Air, LLC
Request a quote

Find Asphalt driveway pros in Memphis

Daley's Superior Asphalt Paving, Inc.

3.5(

)

Serving Memphis, TX and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 1963

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"I would definitely hire them again! I had a good experience with the owner, James Daley, who did very good work."

Response time3 days

12 neighbors recently requested a quote

Recommended by84%of homeowners

Serving Memphis, TX and surrounding areas

In business since 2002

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

Industrial Asphalt has a single mission: complete customer satisfaction! We strongly believe in giving our customers the most for their money. We work with only the highest quality materials and experienced professionals. With over 25 years of experience, we have consistently focused on the needs of our customers, providing personalized attention and a stress free experience. This approach has set us apart from our competition and keeps our customers coming back! Give us a call today!

+54

Response time12 hrs

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Serving Memphis, TX and surrounding areas

"John and them were good with me, answered all my questions, did a good job, and got it all done quickly."

+11

Recommended by50%of homeowners

Serving Memphis, TX and surrounding areas

In business since 2012

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

Tom's Paving specializes in residential and commercial asphalt paving, sealing and repairs. We will cover the metro San Antonio, Laredo and Corpus Cristi, Texas metro areas and more. We take great pride in our work and will always get the job done right the first time and every time. You can count on Tom's Paving for excellent customer service. Call now for a competitive quote.

Request Quote

Asphalt Driveways questions, answered by experts

New asphalt typically needs 24 to 72 hours to dry before it can handle light foot traffic and careful driving. Although it may appear solid after a few days, the full curing process, where the asphalt reaches its peak strength, takes much longer—generally from 30 days to a year.

During this extended curing time, the surface remains relatively soft and can be damaged by heavy vehicles, sharp objects, or high temperatures. To protect your investment, it's best to avoid parking heavy machinery on the asphalt until it has fully cured.

The exact time required for drying and curing depends on several factors, including the weather, the specific asphalt mix, and its thickness. For the most accurate advice tailored to your situation, consult with your asphalt contractor.

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.

A driveway's lifespan varies by material. Asphalt driveways typically last 15 to 30 years, while concrete driveways last longer, between 20 and 50 years. The longevity of any driveway is affected by factors like extreme temperatures, heavy traffic, and the quality of maintenance. Regular upkeep, such as filling cracks, resealing the surface, and ensuring proper drainage, can help extend its life. For gravel driveways, regrading to fill in uneven areas every year or two is recommended.

It takes recycled asphalt 48 hours to initially harden and up to 3 months to fully cure. It’s best to stay off of recycled asphalt for at least 48 hours, then you can walk or drive standard vehicles on it. Hold off on driving heavy trucks or equipment on it for at least 7 days. Allowing the surface to melt together and harden ensures that the surface stays durable and long-lasting.

When hiring an asphalt paving contractor to install your driveway, ask as many questions up front as possible. Here are a few questions to ask a prospective driveway contractor:

How many years of experience do you have?
Are you licensed, bonded, and insured?
Do you have worker’s compensation?
Do you use subcontractors on your projects?
Do you clean up after the job is done?
Who is responsible for any damage to lawn or landscaping?
Do you provide a guarantee or warranty on your work?
Do you give free estimates?
What is the timeline for completion?
How do you handle change orders?
Can you provide at least three references?
Can I see some of the work you’ve done?

The Memphis, TX homeowners’ guide to asphalt driveway services

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

See all articles

Timothy Moore
•
Apr 16, 2026Apr 16, 2026
How Much Does an Asphalt Driveway Cost? [2026 Data]
Calculate the cost of installing a new asphalt driveway based on dimensions, depth, finishes, and other custom driveway details.
Rachel Hoffman
•
May 30, 2026May 30, 2026
How Much Does It Cost to Pave a Driveway? [2026 Data]
The average cost to pave a driveway is $4,897, but prices vary by size and material. This guide breaks down common cost factors and helps you budget.
Rachel Hoffman
•
May 30, 2026May 30, 2026
How Much Does a Heated Driveway Cost? [2026 Data]
Don’t knock it until you try it. A heated driveway can save you a lot of manual labor in colder months. Here’s a breakdown of the cost of a heated driveway.
Dan Simms
•
May 16, 2026May 16, 2026
Asphalt vs. Concrete Driveways: Which Is Right for You?
Which one is better for your home, an asphalt or concrete driveway? Learn the difference in initial installation, pros and cons, and follow-up costs.
Taylor Sansano
•
May 3, 2026May 3, 2026
The Ultimate Guide to Asphalt Maintenance
With proper asphalt driveway maintenance, your home’s entrance should last around 25 years. This detailed guide will help you maximize your exterior investment.
C.E. Larusso
•
Apr 10, 2026Apr 10, 2026
10 Types of Driveways: Pros, Cons, and Costs
A driveway should look great, be durable, and hold up to weather in your climate. Learn all about the best types of driveways and when to choose each.