Pros and Cons of Asphalt Driveway Vs Asphalt Contractor

Whether you need to install a new driveway or replace an old one, asphalt is almost certainly one of the options you’ll consider. A properly installed asphalt paving driveway will perform much the same as concrete (it will increase in durability and price) but at a much lower cost. One of the pros and cons of asphalt is that you have to seal it every few years for proper maintenance, while concrete is essentially maintenance-free. On the other hand, because asphalt is a petroleum product, it is more flexible and less susceptible to cracking than concrete. Asphalt can also get hot in the summer. Consider these and other factors to help decide if asphalt is a good choice for your driveway.

Asphalt Driveway

The main components of asphalt used in asphalt driveways are rock, sand, and asphalt cement, a petroleum product similar to tar. A new driveway begins with a 4- to 8-inch layer of compacted granular fill for a solid, well-draining foundation. This is covered with 2 to 3 inches of fresh, hot asphalt, which is quickly compacted with a heavy rolling machine (what you might call a “roller”). New asphalt driveways can usually be driven in immediately after installation. In contrast, poured concrete driveways must cure for seven days before they can be used.

How to Maintain an Asphalt Driveway

If you’ve had or seen asphalt driveways and thought they should last longer, chances are the surface hasn’t been properly maintained. To get the longest life and best appearance from an asphalt driveway, clean your driveway at least twice a year. To remove all dirt and debris, use a hard brush and a powerful hose spray. Apply a sealer coat to asphalt every two to five years to ensure an attractive, water-resistant surface. Cracks and holes should be repaired as soon as possible, using a suitable asphalt repair material or sealant.

How long should an Asphalt Driveway Last?

Asphalt driveways typically last 12 to 20 years, depending on the quality of the installation, the climate, the amount of use they receive, and how well they have been maintained. Like almost everything else, the better you take care of your asphalt driveway, the longer it will stay in service.

In comparison, a poured concrete driveway can endure up to 30 years. In both cases, how long the material “lasts” really means how long you can live with looking terrible after it has aged and cracked beyond reasonable repair. You can use an asphalt or concrete driveway forever, so how long it lasts is often a matter of aesthetics.

Choosing an Asphalt Contractor in Houston

When the asphalt driveway cracks and buckles, you need to repair or replace it. If you can’t do it yourself, you will have to go through the appraisal process with different contractors to complete the job. This can be an overwhelming process if you don’t have a strategy in mind. Fortunately, there are many different pricing methods you can use to ensure that you get the best price possible.

● Online: An easy way to find different-priced paving contractors in Houston is by doing an online search. The Internet has given rise to fierce price competition among competitors as it is easy to compare contractor websites to see the rates and services being offered to clients. As a customer, take advantage of this easy research method and quickly find prices for several different asphalt contractors. If the websites do not specifically state the rates, the contractors usually have an email address that you can contact for a more personalized quote.

● Quotes: Another way to find more personalized prices is to call several different contractors and receive a quote, either over the phone or on your own site. Many companies offer an estimate that you can use to compare with estimates received from other written asphalt contractors. When coming up with an estimate, make sure the contractor knows exactly what plan you have for the driveway. Some individuals find it helpful to have the contractor lay out the project plan with spray paint for an exact estimate.

● Comparison: Price is not the only thing that needs to be considered when looking for one of the best paving contractors in Houston TX. It is important to weigh the cost-benefit of using a contractor who is more experienced and uses a higher quality of materials. Do your research before talking to contractors and make sure you choose one with those qualities. Never use a contractor that is not bonded or insured. If you do, then it becomes your responsibility to pay for any mishaps that may occur.

● Time and resources: One of the best places to find a quality contractor is through local construction supply companies. These places are familiar with contractors doing quality work in your area. Find out how long each contractor intends to take to complete the job. Someone who charges more but gets the job done sooner might be a better option than someone who charges less and takes several months to complete the job.

● From mouth to mouth: Friends and neighbors can be an invaluable resource for finding a cheap and quality contractor. Talk to friends you have who have had paving jobs. You can also talk to neighbors in the area who have completed construction projects.

Asphalt driveways are usually installed by Houston paving company that specializes in the job because it involves very specialized equipment and techniques. Do your homework before hiring a contractor, as there are plenty of overnight travelers ready to take your money for a lousy job. One area where contractors commonly cut corners is the granular base.

Ask potential Houston paving contractors what they use for their bases and how thick they make them. If you’re replacing an old driveway, ask if the contractor will remove or improve the old base before laying the asphalt. Your contractor should have at least a 1-ton roller to compact the asphalt during the rolling stage.