Paving an Asphalt Driveway

Plan the path and size of the asphalt driveway by laying down two ropes on the ground to mark the sides. Space the ropes a minimum of 10 feet apart for one car and 16 feet for two using measuring tape.

Dig out at least 12 inches of topsoil from between the parallel ropes with an excavator or shovel. Dump the soil on a plastic sheet a few feet from the site so it doesn’t fall back in, and use it later over low spots in the yard.

Stabilize the subsoil at the bottom of the foundation with a compactor machine. Go over the dirt several times until it feels firm and resists the pressure.

Spread a 4-inch layer of 1 1/4-inch crushed stones over the dirt with a metal rake and compact them down.

Add 4 inches of 3/4 inch crushed stones over the larger stones and compact them down. Lay wire mesh across the stone base to strengthen the asphalt.

Construct a frame of 2-by-6 inch boards around the inner perimeter of the site. Hammer nails through the ends of the boards so hot asphalt won’t seep through the cracks.

Have the paving company you hire pour hot asphalt over the site and compact it with a roller machine. Schedule this for a clear day with temperatures between 60 and 70 degrees.

Block off the driveway for 48 hours so the asphalt can harden.

Seal the new asphalt six to nine months after it is poured so it can fully cure. Use a roller paint brush to apply a coat of high-quality coal-tar sealant, and plan to re-apply it every three to five years.