Driveway Paving Summerville SC is a great way to make your home’s entrance more attractive and convenient. However, it is important to weigh your options and rely on a professional.
Concrete driveways are long-lasting and can be customized with different colors and designs. They also resist the freeze-thaw cycle better than other materials.
The cost of Driveway Paving depends on the type of material used. Concrete is generally more expensive but is also one of the most durable paving materials. Its lifespan can be 25 to 50 years or more, making it a good long-term investment for homeowners. Unlike asphalt, which can soften under heavy loads, a well-maintained concrete driveway is sturdy enough to accommodate even the heaviest vehicles. Concrete installation can be tricky and requires specialized equipment, so most people choose to have professionals pour and finish their driveways. Professionals typically charge between $4 and $10 per square foot, including the cost of removing an existing driveway or site preparation.
In addition to the cost of the materials, the cost of a new driveway also includes labor and equipment costs. It’s important to hire a reputable contractor with plenty of experience. Check reviews and ratings online before hiring a company to pave your driveway. Ask about the company’s paving history and look for certification from the state’s Department of Transportation or the National Center for Asphalt Technology training programs. It’s also a good idea to ask about the company’s guarantee and insurance coverage.
For those on a budget, asphalt is a cost-effective option. However, it’s more susceptible to damage from sunlight and temperature fluctuations than other types of paving materials. It’s also not as good at resisting the weight of vehicles.
Homeowners can reduce the cost of their asphalt driveway by ensuring that it is properly installed and that they use a quality base layer. They can also save money by repairing small cracks in the surface with asphalt repair caulk.
Another way to reduce the cost of a new asphalt driveway is to choose a smaller size. Larger driveways require more material to maintain a proper thickness, which can increase the total cost of the project. When choosing a size, consider how often you drive your vehicle and whether you frequently host parties with lots of guests. This will help you estimate how much space you need in your driveway. Also, factor in drainage considerations if your driveway is sloped or runs near trees or other natural features.
Materials
There are a variety of materials that can be used to pave a driveway. Some of the most popular include concrete, pavers and asphalt. The best material for your needs will depend on the amount and type of traffic the driveway will experience as well as the weather conditions in your area. It is also important to consider the cost of the materials when making your decision.
Concrete is a long-lasting and durable option for paving a driveway. It can withstand heavy loads and is relatively easy to maintain. However, it can crack over time and may require periodic repairs. Concrete is also environmentally friendly and requires less energy to manufacture than other paving materials. However, it is not as flexible as other materials and can crack under the stress of a moving vehicle.
Asphalt Pavement (sometimes called blacktop) is a common and economical choice for paving a driveway. It consists of a mix of aggregate—stone, sand or gravel—bound together with asphalt cement, which is derived from petroleum products. It is a good choice for cold-weather regions and offers excellent traction. It can last up to 15 years, though resurfacing can extend its lifespan.
During the paving process, McCullough adds, an asphalt company will correct any drainage problems by grading and sloping the soil. This helps to prevent water from pooling on the surface and reduce damage from freeze-and-thaw cycles. It will then prepare the sub-base by adding soil to achieve the proper thickness and compacting it. Then it will lay down a layer of crushed rock to provide strength for the new pavement surface.
A popular and versatile paving material, pavers offer homeowners many design options. They come in a wide range of shapes, sizes and colors to match any style or decor. They are also highly customizable and can be laid out in patterns that complement the shape of the driveway. Pavers are easy to repair, but they do need to be sealed periodically to protect them from stains and weather-related damage. They also need to be restocked occasionally, as the spaces between the pavers can fill with weeds.
Installation
A paver driveway is a great option for those who want to improve the look of their home while adding curb appeal. Its unique patterns and colors can add a distinctive style to your property and can help to create an inviting space that can withstand heavy vehicle traffic and harsh weather conditions. However, like any paving material, pavers require regular maintenance to keep them looking their best.
Before the paving process begins, you should contact a local paving contractor for a detailed estimate of the project. Then, you can decide if it’s best to do the work yourself or hire a professional. The decision should be based on your budget, time available and ability to undertake the task. A reputable company will provide professional installation that will ensure quick completion and top quality.
The first step in a paver driveway installation is to clear and excavate the area, removing any plants and debris. Once the site has been cleared, a base layer of crushed gravel or aggregate should be added and compacted using a mechanical plate compactor to create a strong and stable foundation for the pavers. The next step is to lay a geogrid material called DriveGrid, which helps to distribute the weight evenly and prevent rutting and shifting of the pavers.
After the base is installed, it’s time to start laying the pavers. Brick pavers are available in a variety of styles, sizes and colors and come in many different patterns to suit your personal taste. Concrete pavers are another excellent choice and offer an appealing, modern look. Other options include granite, limestone and natural stone pavers.
Once the pavers are in place, it’s important to check for proper drainage and slope. Also, make sure that the edges of the driveway are sealed to prevent erosion. Finally, the driveway should be sanded and raked to remove any remaining dirt or debris and to create a smooth surface for vehicles to drive on.
The last step is to maintain your new driveway with regular sweeping, cleaning and pressure washing. It’s important to do this because it will protect the pavers from weather damage, soil erosion and pests.
Maintenance
Whether your home has a concrete, asphalt or paver driveway, routine maintenance is important to preserve the surface and extend its lifespan. Different types of driveways require specific preventive maintenance solutions, such as cleaning, weed removal and resealing.
The initial step in any asphalt maintenance process is to perform a visual inspection of the surface. Look for cracks, which can range from hairline fractures to more substantial fissures. Identifying and assessing existing damage allows you to tailor cleaning and sealing strategies that are appropriate for your driveway’s specific needs.
For example, if your driveway has oil or gasoline spills that aren’t cleaned up promptly, these substances will dissolve the surface of the asphalt and cause deterioration over time. You can minimize this issue by regularly sweeping the driveway with a hand broom or power broom and periodically spraying it down with a garden hose.
Depending on your type of driveway, you may also need to clean the area around the driveway to keep it free from debris. The best time to do this is in the fall, when the weather is cool and dry, but you should be cautious in winter since temperatures can drop below freezing.
It’s also a good idea to walk the driveway every month or so to check for signs of damage, such as potholes and depressions in the surface. These can be caused by cars driving over them or by water seeping in through the soil surface. Often, these areas will need to be repaired by filling in the damaged area with a crack sealer or patching compound and compacting it properly.
You can minimize the need for costly repairs by keeping up with regular cleaning and resealing of your asphalt driveway. A good resealing job will help the surface last longer by protecting it from harmful chemicals, moisture and UV radiation. It’s also important to make sure the surface is completely dry before applying the sealant, as dirt reduces its bond with the asphalt surface. This will ensure that the sealant adheres effectively and offers long-lasting protection.