If you are getting a new asphalt driveway installed, it can be helpful to understand how it is going to be put in so you know what to expect. Below is information about this to help you. You will also find information on how to keep your new driveway maintained so it will last you for many years.
Asphalt Driveway Process
The first thing the asphalt pavement company will do is remove the existing driveway if there is one. They will use heavy machinery to do this, such as front loaders, dump trucks, bobcats, etc. You need to be prepared for this as some of this machinery is large. Once the current driveway is removed, they will remove all debris from the area.
The next step is to inspect the area to see if there is a slope. If there is a slope, they will fix this. This is important because a slope would result in water building up on the driveway when it rains. This can cause problems with the driveway developing cracks.
The subbase is then prepared, which is the first layer of the driveway. The subbase supports the asphalt that is going to be laid. The subbase is also a frost barrier, so this will help prevent ice from building up on the driveway during the winter months.
The next layer in this process is the binder. This provides extra strength to the driveway. The binder is made of a mixture of asphalt and a special type of oil. The contractor will then install your asphalt driveway.
Maintain Asphalt Driveway
Inspect your driveway periodically and look for any cracks that may appear. If you see any, purchase crack filler at a home improvement store to fill the cracks in. If you do not do this, the crack will likely spread and eventually get much larger. You would then have to call the asphalt driveway company to repair the driveway for you.
You should also seal the driveway, which can make it look good but also protects it from wear and tear. You can purchase asphalt seals at a home improvement store. It will have instructions on how to do this. You can also hire a professional to seal your driveway for you. Seal your asphalt driveway at least every 3-5 years to keep it properly maintained.
The asphalt pavement company can go over this information with you in much more detail. Contact an asphalt paving service, such as Phend & Brown, to learn more.