Any tips for paving a driveway?
I am planning to pave my driveway using asphalt. What should I look for? My existing driveway has gravel now. The total area to be paved is about 5000 square feet (500 square meters).
Expert
Maestro
The easiest way to get a good driveway is to get a good contractor. Complaints to consumers groups about poor quality driveways are exceedingly high. Find 2 or 3 contractors known for high-quality work, with established reputations. Obtain proposals and make sure that all are bidding on the same work. Compare what they plan to do, and quantity of materials they plan to use. Be sure that the thickness agreed upon is the compacted thickness. A residential driveways should be a minimum of 4 in. compacted thickness on a properly prepared subgrade. If the driveway is going to be used by heavier vehicles, consider 5 in. compacted thickness. Insist on a written contract which includes any guarantee offered. If possible, hold back some money until you're completely satisfied with the job. Ask for lots of references and visit other projects the contractor has done. If possible, talk to former clients. Grading is extremely important. The driveway must slope away from the house, and must be constructed so that there are no puddles.
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