When it comes to paving solutions, asphalt is undeniably popular in Ireland with countless driveways and roads built using this material. The primary components of asphalt are sand, stone and tar, the adhesive used to hold together the different materials.
Asphalt has similar components like concrete, except that the latter uses cement as its adhesive. It is also a good choice for those who want a material that is low-cost but performs much like concrete.
If you are thinking of installing a new drive, you should consider going for an asphalt driveway as it offers several benefits, and we’ve listed some of them below.
Asphalt Driveways Are Easy to Install
The process of installing an asphalt driveway may start with the demolition and removal of your current driveway. This is followed by grading and sloping of the area. The base is then prepared by laying down around 8 inches of granular fill. This is then topped by around 3 inches of hot asphalt. A steamroller will then go over the asphalt to make it compact and help it adhere to the base.
The installation process can usually be done within the day depending on the size of your driveway and the material used on your old drive. After installation, it can be driven on immediately, but it is highly recommended that you wait around 2-3 days. This is a significantly shorter waiting time as compared to concrete driveways which need a week to fully cure.
Asphalt Driveways Are Affordable
One of the most important decision-making factors in any type of home improvement project is cost.
If you have a limited budget, asphalt is one of the more practical options available. Its price is half of that of concrete, but this does not mean that it is an inferior paving solution. The truth is that they are as durable as concrete driveways for as long as they are installed well.
Asphalt drives are also easier to repair than concrete driveways. You only need to fix the damaged area and not overhaul the entire drive as you would with those made of concrete. This means that your repair expense is lower when you choose asphalt.
Asphalt Driveways Look Attractive
In terms of appearance, asphalt drives have a smooth and sleek appearance. Most people prefer the classic black or dark grey colour of asphalt as it gives the driveway a classic-looking finish. But colour additives and tinted sealers are available for those who want a unique-looking asphalt drive.
There is also stamped asphalt which gives the illusion that the driveway is made of a different material like bricks or other paving solutions. This is an option you may want to consider if you want to enhance the look of your asphalt driveway or make it look unlike any other.
Asphalt Driveways Are Durable
They are more durable and flexible as compared to concrete drives which can eventually flake and deteriorate. When asphalt driveways are properly installed and maintained well, they can last up to around 15 to 20 years.
They are also more resistant to the weather as compared to concrete and other materials. Concrete drives tend to deteriorate significantly during winter due to extreme changes in temperature and exposure to condensation and freezing.
When water seeps into concrete and expands, it will cause the concrete to crack. The cracks can worsen through repeated seeping and freezing, resulting in a drive that needs to be fixed.
Unlike those made of concrete, asphalt driveways are less likely to crack or flake. One of the reasons for this is that they absorb heat and as a result, melt snow faster.
In summary, an asphalt driveway is the right choice for your home if you are looking for something affordable yet durable and aesthetically appealing. You just have to ensure that you hire professionals to install your drive to guarantee that it is well-made and long-lasting.
Thinking of having an asphalt driveway? We have a team of pavers who are experienced in installing different types of drives including asphalt driveways. Call us now on 0852139591 or email us to request a quote!
