If you’re thinking about installing a fresh driveway, parking lot, or any other project involving asphalt paving, it is crucial to possess a comprehensive comprehension of the accompanying expenditures. So, you should ask yourself how much does asphalt paving cost? In this article, we will delve into the diverse factors that impact the costs of asphalt paving, providing you with valuable insights to facilitate well-informed decision-making and efficient budget planning.
Cost for Driveway Paving Per Square Foot
The cost of driveway paving can vary depending on different factors. But in general, and according to the following estimation, it can be as low as 2 dollars, or as high as 30!
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An Estimation for the Cost of Driveway Paving Per Square Food |
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Highest Cost |
$30 |
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Average Cost |
$10 |
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Lowest Cost |
$2 |
How Much Does a Driveway Cost Per Square Foot?
The price of driveway installations is typically determined based on the size of the driveway area. Therefore, the overall cost of the project is determined by the total square footage of the driveway.
To estimate and answer the question, how much does asphalt paving cost per square foot? Start by measuring the square footage of the area. This can be done by measuring the length and width of the site and multiplying the two measurements together.
Next, Multiply the average material price by the total square footage to get an estimated cost.
For instance, if the the average size of a two-car driveway is 600 square feet, and the homeowner decides to install a concrete driveway priced at $8 per square foot, they can anticipate a minimum installation cost of $4,800 plus additional enhancements, if required.
Driveway Cost Based on the Types of Material
To get an accurate answer to the question of how much does asphalt paving cost? One must take into account the type of the chosen material which can range from $1,500 to over $11,000. Let’s explore in detail the cost of each material per square foot:
Cost of Concrete per Square Foot
Concrete is a cost-effective choice as it requires minimal maintenance and offers various decorative options such as stamped patterns, colored, custom finishes, or borders, which in return, may increase the overall cost. While the price of concrete ranges from $4 to $8 per square foot, it can endure for up to 75 years in cold and up to 40 years in warm climates.
Cost of Asphalt Per Square Foot
As an alternative option, asphalt, which is widely favored, boasts a lifespan ranging from 15 to 30 years and thrives particularly well in colder regions and climates. The price range for asphalt is approximately $7 to $13 per square foot, making it a cost-effective choice.
Cost of Gravel Per Square Foot
Gravel is the most economical choice for driveways, with a price range of $1 to $3 per square foot. This option is particularly advantageous if you have a lengthy and curving driveway.
Although gravel driveways are the least expensive to install, the regular tasks of raking and replenishing gravel once or twice a year can accumulate expenses over time. Therefore, gravel might not be a good choice for busy driveways.
Cost of Driveway Material Types Per Square Foot
Take into consideration that the expenses mentioned in the following table can significantly differ beyond these specified ranges.
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A Quick Estimation for Driveway Material Cost Per Square Foot |
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Driveway Material |
Cost |
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Concrete |
From 3 $ to 18 $ |
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Asphalt/Blacktop |
From 7$ to 13$ |
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Gravel |
From 1$ to 3$ |
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Cheap seal |
From 2$ to 5$ |
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Heated |
From 12$ to 21$ |
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Pavers |
From 10$ to 30$ |
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Permeable pavers |
From 4$ to 6$ |
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Grass pavers |
From 4$ to 6$ |
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Exposed aggregate |
From 4$ to 12$ |
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Rubber |
From 6$ to 11$ |
The Cost of Driveway Installation
The overall expense of installing a driveway relies on various factors such as the driveway’s size, site conditions, and the chosen material. Approximately half of the total cost per square foot is attributed to labor, while the remaining half is allocated to the cost of new materials.
The thickness of the driveway material, particularly in the case of concrete and asphalt, can significantly impact the material cost. In some cases, homeowners may need their contractors to remove plants or trees from the site, which will incur an additional charge.
Costs to Replace a Driveway
Revamping a driveway encompasses various options such as replacing, expanding, refinishing, or elongating it. Among these choices, complete replacement tends to be the most expensive as it involves demolishing the existing driveway, eliminating the materials, and subsequently installing a brand-new one.
The expenses associated with widening or extending a driveway can vary from $2 to $15 per square foot, depending on factors such as the chosen material and the condition of the site. Any excavation work required will incur additional costs.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Material for Driveways
Selecting the appropriate material for your driveway is crucial as it sets the first impression for your visitors. However, there are numerous factors to take into account when deciding on a driveway material, including the following:
Cost
Choosing the right material for your driveway is a significant decision, and the costs of materials can vary greatly. It is essential to consider various aspects when comparing their initial costs and long-term value. It is important to find a cost-effective material that withstands the elements and traffic, without breaking the bank.
Driveway Usage
Durability is a crucial factor regardless of the chosen driveway material. The type of traffic the driveway will endure determines its lifespan. Many homeowners prefer concrete as it requires minimal maintenance.
Maintenance
Installing a driveway involves more than just laying down pavers; it also entails considering the maintenance requirements of the chosen materials. While some materials may be expensive to install, they may require minimal upkeep to maintain their original condition over the years, and the other way around is also true.
Weather Conditions
The climate in your area can influence the type of driveway material that is suitable. Certain materials may not be suitable for colder climates because of the freeze and thaw cycles. In such cases, an asphalt driveway is a recommended choice as it is unaffected by temperature or weather conditions.
Time required for Driveway Paving
Homeowners can anticipate a timeframe of approximately two to three days for the installation of their driveway, followed by an additional two to three days for the materials to be properly set. It is advisable to wait for about a week from the commencement of the project before utilizing your driveway.
To say how much does asphalt paving cost? One should consider various factors such as the preferred material, the installation considerations, and more. For a new driveway, a homeowner can anticipate spending approximately $1,800 to $9,000. It is advisable to take into account the property’s location, exterior appearance, and potential excavation when selecting the appropriate material. Before finalizing a decision, it is prudent to request quotes from different contractors, compare costs, and verify their credentials.