Asphalt is a favorite for driveways, as it is known to be resilient, multipurpose, and aesthetically pleasing. But before you install it on your driveway, there are some prerequisites that need to be fulfilled; mainly the calculation of how much asphalt should be used. Allocating enough tonnage in terms of asphalt will guarantee an even surface with no wasteful resources expended, so make sure you do the math.
So how to calculate asphalt tonnage? In this guide, we will explain how to calculate asphalt tonnage for your driveway.
Asphalt Components
To determine the amount of asphalt tonnage necessary for your driveway, there are three main components that you must first understand:
- Asphalt Mix Design – Engineering the perfect asphalt mix requires a careful balance of ingredients. Taking into account traffic volume, climate, and the desired service life, it is critical that these considerations be taken into account when designing an asphalt mix. With this data in mind, we can determine the exact proportions of asphalt cement, aggregates, and other materials for a durable solution tailored to your needs.
- Compaction – Compaction is the action of condensing an asphalt mix to remove pockets of air and form a solid, long-lasting foundation. By correctly compressing, you can guarantee that your asphalt surface will hold up against traffic loads and environmental stressors.
- Density – Asphalt density is gauged in either pounds per cubic foot (PCF) or kilograms per cubic meter (KG/m3), and it boils down to how compact the molecules of the asphalt material are, molecularly. Denser asphalt stands up better against wear and tear and endures for a longer period of time than less dense surfaces.
Measuring Your Driveway
Estimating the necessary asphalt for a driveway can be achieved quickly and accurately by measuring its area. A tape measure is an effective tool to use; however, online programs or consulting with a paving expert are also great options worth considering.
Measuring the length and width of your driveway is the first step to finding out its total square footage. For example, if the dimensions of your driveway are 20 feet by 30 feet, then it would be 600 square feet in size.
Subsequently, measure the existing asphalt’s thickness, or decide on a recommended depth for your new asphalt. Although there is no hard and fast rule, usually residential driveways require two to three inches of thickness. By adhering to this specification, you can rest assured that your project will be successful.
Calculate Asphalt Tonnage For Your Driveway
Now that you have measured the area and thickness of your driveway, it is time to determine how much asphalt is necessary. To help you out, here are some simple steps:
- Convert Measurements – Convert the square footage and thickness measurements to cubic feet:
Square Feet x Thickness (in feet) = Cubic Feet
For example, if your driveway measures 600 square feet and you want a 2-inch thickness of asphalt, your calculation would be:
600 x (2/12) = 100 Cubic Feet
- Determine The Density Of The Asphalt Mix Design – To ensure the best asphalt mix design for your driveway, based on factors such as where you live and how much foot traffic it receives, connect with an experienced asphalt contractor or supplier who will gauge its density in either PCF or kg/m3.
For this example, let’s assume the density of the asphalt mix design is 145 PCF.
- Calculate The Weight Of The Asphalt – To determine the weight of asphalt, use this following equation.
Cubic Feet x Density = Weight (in pounds)
For example, using the measurements from the previous examples, the calculation would be:
100 x 145 = 14,500 pounds
- Adjust For Compaction – The weight of the asphalt calculated in Step 3 is merely an estimation, as the total weight will vary after it has been placed and compacted. Compacting removes air voids, which consequently alters its original mass.
To compensate for the compaction, a factor of 0.9 must be multiplied with the weight of loose asphalt; this results in an approximate weight that is 10% less than what it would have been if not compacted:
Compacted Weight = Loose Weight x 0.9
For example, using the weight from the previous example:
14,500 x 0.9 = 13,500 pounds
- Adjust For Waste – You must adjust the weight of asphalt to account for potential waste. Asphalt can be wasted due to incorrect amounts being applied or discrepancies in its thickness; therefore, it is recommended that an additional 5% be added onto the compacted weight value so that there is enough material available during the project completion.
Total Weight = Compacted Weight + (Compacted Weight x 0.05)
For example, using the weight from the previous example:
13,050 + (13,050 x 0.05) = 13,702.5 pounds
How A Professional Contractor Can Help You Determine The Right Asphalt Tonnage For Your Driveway
The calculations outlined above can help you determine the approximate amount of asphalt needed for your driveway. However, it is best to consult with an experienced professional contractor like the asphalt paving services from A1 Construction Houston to ensure that you get the right asphalt tonnage and that the job is done correctly.
When considering the amount of asphalt needed for your project, they will take into account components such as waste, compaction, mixture design, slope, and other factors that may have an impact. Moreover, their expertise can help to decide what type of asphalt is best suited to your task requirements and any additional materials or tools you might need.
Final Word
Ultimately, accurately estimating the materials for your asphalt project is essential to guarantee that you receive a quality job and stay within budget. A professional contractor will ensure that all aspects of your asphalt project are taken care of, giving you peace of mind knowing it was done properly.