Asphalt is an excellent option for driveways due to its affordability, durability, and low maintenance. Nonetheless, with time, wear and tear can become visible. To lengthen your driveway’s lifespan or increase its size, you may consider expanding your asphalt driveway.
In this article, we will discuss the benefits of extending an asphalt driveway, the steps involved in extending an asphalt driveway, and some tips to keep in mind during the process.
Benefits Of Extending An Asphalt Driveway
Extending your asphalt driveway can provide several benefits:
- Increased Parking Space – Extending your driveway can be beneficial if you have a growing family or visitors who frequently come over. It can provide additional parking space on your property, making it easier for everyone to park their vehicles.
- Improved Curb Appeal – Improving the appearance of your home can be achieved by maintaining your driveway. Adding length to your asphalt driveway can create a more unified look and boost your property’s value.
- Cost Savings – If you want to increase the size of your driveway and make it look better, it’s usually cheaper to extend it instead of replacing the whole thing. By doing this, you can save money and still get the benefits you’re looking for.
Steps To Extend An Asphalt Driveway
If you are considering extending your asphalt driveway, there are several steps that you will need to take:
- Determine The Scope Of The Project – To begin a project, it’s crucial to define the scope of work by deciding how much extra space is required and where the extension should be placed. Additionally, drainage, grade, and possible obstructions must be taken into account.
- Prepare The Site – After finding the extension’s location, you must get the site ready. This could mean eliminating any current landscaping like bushes or trees and cleaning the location of any rubbish.
- Excavate The Site – The next step is to excavate the site. This involves removing the top layer of soil and any other materials that are in the way. The depth of excavation will depend on the thickness of the new asphalt layer and the type of soil you have.
- Grade The Site – It’s important to grade the excavated site for proper drainage. To prevent water from pooling, it’s recommended to have a slope of at least 1/8 inch per foot on the driveway surface.
- Add A Gravel Base – After grading the site, it is recommended to add a gravel base to create a stable foundation for the new asphalt layer. The thickness of the gravel base required depends on the soil type and intended use of the driveway.
- Install Edge Restraints – To prevent the asphalt from spreading beyond the driveway surface, edge restraints are employed. These restraints can be constructed using different materials like concrete, plastic, or metal.
- Lay The Asphalt – Once the base is prepared, the pavement contractor should use hot mix asphalt to lay it down. The thickness of the asphalt will vary depending on the driveway’s purpose but generally ranges from 2-3 inches. It is essential to hire a professional for this task.
- Compact The Asphalt – After laying the asphalt, it is important to use a roller to compact it properly for density and stability.
- Sealcoat The Driveway – Finally, a sealcoat should be applied to protect the new asphalt layer from weather damage and oxidation. It is recommended to wait at least 90 days after installation before applying the sealcoat.
Tips to Keep in Mind
Here are some tips to keep in mind during the process of extending your asphalt driveway:
- Hire A Professional – While it may be tempting to try and save money by doing the work yourself, it is highly recommended to hire a professional paving contractor. They have the knowledge, experience, and equipment necessary to complete the job correctly and safely. You can call A-Rock Asphalt in Salt Lake City today to discuss your project and get an estimate.
- Obtain Permits – Depending on your location, you may need to obtain permits before starting any construction work. Check with your local government to determine what permits are required in your area.
- Consider Drainage – Proper drainage is essential for any asphalt driveway. Make sure to grade the area correctly and add a sufficient gravel base to prevent water from pooling on the surface of the driveway.
- Plan Ahead – Before starting any project, make sure to plan ahead and consider any potential obstacles or challenges. This can help to prevent delays and ensure the project is completed smoothly.
Conclusion
All in all, if you’re considering expanding your driveway, you’ll be happy to know that it comes with added advantages like more parking space and enhanced aesthetic appeal. The process, however, involves several steps that include clearing the site, excavating the area, laying a gravel base, installing edge restraints, laying asphalt, compacting the surface, and applying a sealcoat. You can ensure that your new driveway is installed safely and correctly by following these steps and tips outlined in this article.
And if you need help with any part of the process, it is recommended to hire a professional paving contractor. With their knowledge and experience, they will be able to complete the job efficiently and correctly.