Whether you need to install a new driveway or replace an old one, asphalt is almost certainly one of the options you will consider. A properly installed asphalt driveway will perform much like concrete, but at a much lower cost. The trade-off is that you will need to seal coat the asphalt every few years.
Because it is a petroleum product, asphalt is flexible, which makes it less susceptible to cracking.
But asphalt can also get very hot in the summer. Here is some information that should help you decide whether or not asphalt is a good choice for your driveway.
What Is Asphalt?
The components of the blacktop that is used on asphalt driveways consist of bits of rock, sand and asphalt cement.How To Maintain an Asphalt Driveway
Clean the driveway at least twice a year. Use a stiff broom and strong hose spray to remove all dirt and debris. Seal coat the asphalt every two to five years. Cracks and holes should be repaired as soon as possible (see Quick Guide to Blacktop Driveway Repair for instructions).How Long Will an Asphalt Driveway Last?
Asphalt driveways typically last 12 to 35 years, depending on the quality of the installation, climate, usage, and how well they have been maintained. Like most everything else, the better care you take of your asphalt driveway, the longer it will remain in service.What Does an Asphalt Driveway Cost?
Asphalt driveways cost $2 to $5 per square foot to install.This is double the cost of gravel (see Pros and Cons of a Gravel Driveway), but half what a concrete driveway would cost.