The Best Methods for Installing Asphalt Driveways

Prepare the Site

• Once you decide on the shape and site of the driveway, the first step is to outline it with landscape paint or stakes and a string. Call your utilities or 811 to get free information on exactly where underground pipes and wires are located in your yard. All growth and root systems must be removed from the area after you verify that digging will not interfere with any services.

Build the Foundation

• To support driveway pavement under heavy weight loads, the foundation should be at least 2/3 as thick as the pavement, or 8 inches. Excavate at least 12 inches from the driveway site, then slope the bottom by 1/8 inch for every foot so water will flow away from the house. Always stabilize the soil at the floor of the site before adding the gravel base. Pour the gravel in 3-inch-thick layers at a time and compact each layer until the base is at least 8 inches thick.

Install Asphalt

• Similar to wet concrete, you must fit form boards around the inner perimeter of the site. Screw the boards together and install stakes every few feet around the outside to brace the boards against the pressure of the asphalt. The loose asphalt will be distributed in small piles over the driveway site. Use gauge rakes to spread it into the corners, sides and evenly over the surface. Go over each section of the driveway multiple times with a steam roller to ensure uniform thickness and level out the surface before it begins to cool and harden.

Seal the Surface

• Asphalt sealer prevents fading and adds years of service to a driveway, but should not be used until the asphalt cures for a minimum of six months. Sealer is designed to increase elasticity so the driveway is less prone to cracking. Plan to reapply it every 3 to 4 years as it wears away over time.