Can I Prepare for a New Asphalt Driveway?

Getting a new asphalt driveway is incredibly exciting, and summer is the perfect time of year to get the job done. There are many things that you and your concrete driveway installer can do to prepare the surface beforehand and make sure that the installation process goes as smoothly as possible. Here are some of the many ways that you can prepare for a new asphalt driveway.

Paving contractor

If you’re getting a new asphalt driveway, there a few steps to take first.

 

Why Is Preparation Key?

Asphalt driveways need to be installed on soil that is solid and stable, otherwise it

will fail and dramatically reduce the lifespan of your driveway. Depending on the

soil in your driveway, your asphalt driveway installer made need to install a base

beforehand. The base will help to stabilize the soil in the area and lengthen the

lifespan of your driveway. Make sure that you work with a contractor that you trust

so that they don’t install a base unnecessarily or suggest a base but leave it out of

their estimate and paperwork. The right contractor should always be honest and

upfront with you about all of their recommendations and projected expenses.

 

Installation Should Be Smooth and Simple

The installation process for your asphalt driveway should be as smooth and simple

as possible. Again, if you are working with a good quality contractor, this shouldn’t

be an issue. Your contractor should always follow proper asphalt installation

guidelines, including the temperature and timeline, so that your asphalt driveway

will last as long as possible. It helps to do some research on proper installation

methods beforehand and get bids from multiple contractors so that you will get a

good idea of what is normal and what is abnormal. If you have any questions do not

be afraid to ask. A good contractor expects you to ask questions (after all, you are

investing a significant amount of money in a new driveway!), so ask away.

 

Protect Your Driveway

Last, but not least, remember that the lifespan of your asphalt driveway also

depends on how well you take care of it. Budget to sealcoat your asphalt driveway 1-

2 years after the initial installation and every 5-10 years following that. Sealcoating

is the best way to protect the structural integrity and lifespan of your asphalt

driveway.

 

Get Your New Driveway from Testa Paving

Testa Paving is ready to help you repair, replace, or initially install pavement and

pavement cracks around your home. For over 35 years, we have provided northern

Virginia and Maryland with top-notch expertise and customer service. Interested in

learning how we can help with your patio project? Give us a call at (301) 663-5861

or visit us online. To see examples of our work and keep in touch, follow us on

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