What kind of driveway can be exposed to water right after installation?

• <div><p>Gravel is <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/types-of-driveways.htm">one of the few driveway materials</a> that can handle rain the second it’s installed. Unlike asphalt, which needs days to set, or concrete, which requires weeks to cure, gravel is ready as soon as it’s compacted. It’s naturally permeable, allowing water to drain straight through—with no risk of pooling or surface damage. Gravel driveways are one of the most affordable, at <b>$1 to $3 per square foot</b>, and can also last upward of 100 years.</p></div>

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Q: What other driveway materials can I choose for my driveway?

• <div><p>Cobblestone is just one of many <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/choosing-perfect-material-your-driveway.htm">driveway materials</a>. Other, more economical, albeit less elaborate options include concrete, asphalt, and gravel. </p><p>If you want a material that most closely resembles cobblestone, your best option is bricks or pavers. Both cost anywhere from <b>$10 to $50 per square foot</b> and can be laid in all kinds of patterns. Depending on the type of paver you choose, you can also get a good bang for your buck by investing in durable natural stone. </p></div>

Q: What is an ideal driveway gradient?

• <div><p>An ideal driveway gradient is between 2% and 5%. Anything lower than 1% or higher than 15% can cause problems for your car or property. A driveway with less than a 1% slope increases your likelihood of flooding and water damage, while a driveway with a 15% grade or higher can be too steep for safe traveling.</p></div>

Q: How long does an asphalt milling driveway last?

• <div><p>With proper maintenance, asphalt milling driveways can last 30 years or more. Over time, you&rsquo;ll need to regularly sealcoat your driveway. You should also have your driveway inspected every few years and make any repairs as soon as they are necessary; this will prolong the lifespan of your driveway.</p></div>

Q: How do professionals enhance the appearance of asphalt surfaces?

• <div><p>Professionals restore the surface to a fresh, attractive finish by applying a new, even sealant layer.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Asphalt Driveway Service pros in Merrill, WI

*The Angi rating for Asphalt Driveway Service companies in Merrill, WI 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 Merrill, WI 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 June 08, 2026

Find Asphalt driveway pros in Merrill

Whartons asphalt

5.0(

)

Serving Merrill, WI and surrounding areas

In business since 1975

Emergency services offered

"I am very happy with the job Wharton’s Asphalt did with my driveway. They were very professional and it looks great"

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Hip & Ridge Construction

4.5(

)

Serving Merrill, WI and surrounding areas

In business since 2011

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"When they were here they worked all day. However there were many days when they had to go to other jobs and that caused delays on our project. Project took much longer than we thought it would. Had a hard time communicating, many times only got voice mail.Seemed to us the contractor had too many jobs going on at the same time. We did not feel our project was a high priority. Overall we are happy with the results but were quite frustrated at times"

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Jensen and Son Asphalt

New to Angi

Serving Merrill, WI and surrounding areas

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

Offers commercial services

Jensen and Son Asphalt Restoration LLC is committed to excellence in every aspect of our business. We uphold a standard of integrity bound by fairness, honesty, and personal responsibility. Our distinction is the quality of service we bring to our customers. Accurate knowledge of our trade combined with ability is what makes us true professionals. Above all, we are watchful of our customers' interests and make their concerns the basis of our business.

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Asphalt Driveways questions, answered by experts

Cobblestone is just one of many driveway materials. Other, more economical, albeit less elaborate options include concrete, asphalt, and gravel.

If you want a material that most closely resembles cobblestone, your best option is bricks or pavers. Both cost anywhere from $10 to $50 per square foot and can be laid in all kinds of patterns. Depending on the type of paver you choose, you can also get a good bang for your buck by investing in durable natural stone.

An ideal driveway gradient is between 2% and 5%. Anything lower than 1% or higher than 15% can cause problems for your car or property. A driveway with less than a 1% slope increases your likelihood of flooding and water damage, while a driveway with a 15% grade or higher can be too steep for safe traveling.

With proper maintenance, asphalt milling driveways can last 30 years or more. Over time, you’ll need to regularly sealcoat your driveway. You should also have your driveway inspected every few years and make any repairs as soon as they are necessary; this will prolong the lifespan of your driveway.

Professionals restore the surface to a fresh, attractive finish by applying a new, even sealant layer.

Gravel is one of the few driveway materials that can handle rain the second it’s installed. Unlike asphalt, which needs days to set, or concrete, which requires weeks to cure, gravel is ready as soon as it’s compacted. It’s naturally permeable, allowing water to drain straight through—with no risk of pooling or surface damage. Gravel driveways are one of the most affordable, at $1 to $3 per square foot, and can also last upward of 100 years.

The Merrill, WI homeowners’ guide to asphalt driveway services

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