Driveway Paving Instructions

Consider which material you wish to use for the driveway's surface. The most popular choice in the United States is concrete, although asphalt and concrete pavers are increasingly being used. In some locations, even ceramic tile with a decorative motif is installed with great results. Be aware that there are substantial differences in the cost of a driveway, depending on the material being used.

Investigate the "delivered cost" of materials for your driveway. Hot mix asphalt is usually the cheapest material that can be used. If it meets your criteria, there are many advantages. It will last 20-30 years, it's more flexible than concrete, is the cheapest of all materials and is less prone to damage by debris than any other material. Get several estimates from local contractors for each type of material you are considering for your driveway.

Decide which material will be used for the driveway contruction. Once that decision is reached based upon price, availability of materials and the identification of a good contractor to actually perform the work, only two steps remain prior to your new driveway installation: removal of the existing driveway (if one exists) and the design, preparation and layout of the new driveway. The design, preparation and layout steps are similar regardless of the type driveway installed, with minor changes depending on the maerial to be used.

Remove the old driveway. This service is usually negotiated for a fee with the new driveway contractor, however, it is always best to get several quotes to have the job done. Sometimes a hungry contractor will give you a low price with the hope of acquiring more work at a later date.

Grade the new driveway location so that the bare soil is smooth and compacted to a depth of nine inches below grade. The new driveway contractor will usually perform this as part of the installation price you were given, but make sure that is the case. This below-grade layout should mirror what the finished driveway will look like with all the curves, bends and straight runs.

Install six to eight inches of aggregate base on top of the compacted soil in the driveway layout. The aggregate base will hold the asphalt (or other material), and prevent holes and other weak spots from developing over time in the finished surface of the driveway. The aggregate base should also be compacted in place before any asphalt (or other material) is laid.

Install the asphalt (or other) paving. The job is usually done very quickly by a good contractor because the "working window" for asphalt is very short. Most driveways can be laid in under 30 minutes, but extra time is needed to compact the asphalt, smooth it up and clean up. Allow 24 hours to pass before driving a vehicle on the new surface. Wait at least a week before subjecting the driveway to motorcycle kickstands or any other penetrating objects, which may damage the relatively soft asphalt.