Installing a driveway is a home improvement project that can make a big impact on your home’s curb-appeal. It’s always good to plan for something like this, so here is what you can expect, and some of the factors that can affect the cost to install an asphalt driveway.
You want to install a new driveway, but what’s the best option for you? And how much is it going to cost? Between asphalt and concrete, an asphalt driveway will always be the choice that’s easier on your wallet, and we’re going to give you all the details to help you plan for the cost to install an asphalt driveway.
The All-In Cost
The national average for an asphalt driveway installation is just under $6,000, ranging from about $1,200 on the low end and topping out at
about $13,000. You can plan on spending $3 to $6 per square foot for materials and an additional $4 to $13 per square foot for labor. It may be tempting to do your own labor for your asphalt driveway installation, but be advised that it’s a big undertaking that can sometimes end in unsatisfactory results and wasted money. It’s best to go with an experienced asphalt contractor.
What Affects The Cost To Install An Asphalt Driveway?
If you’re wondering what contributes to the wide range in prices when it comes to asphalt driveway installation, here are a few variables:
The Size of the Driveway
This is an obvious one – the larger the driveway, the more materials required and the more manpower needed to complete the job. If your driveway needs to lead to a detached garage that is located away from your house, or if your home is on a large lot and a long distance from the road, you can expect to pay a bit more.
Preparing for the Installation
If you have an existing driveway that needs to be removed before the new one is poured, you can expect to pay more for the demolition and removal of the material. If your property needs to be excavated or levelled before your new driveway is installed, plan on additional costs between $1,500 to $5,000.
Existing trees, bushes, or other shrubbery will also need to be removed, which can add to the overall cost to install an asphalt driveway.
Asphalt Sealing
It’s highly recommended that your asphalt driveway be sealcoated about 6 months after the top layer of asphalt is installed. Sealcoating will extend the life of your driveway by protecting it from the elements. We advise our clients to have their asphalt surfaces sealed every 3 to 5 years to maintain protection.
The Type of Asphalt and Driveway Upgrades
Most homeowners choose hot mix asphalt, as it’s the most cost effective, but there are other options and driveway add-ons out there:
- Recycled asphalt
- Colored asphalt
- Stamped asphalt
- Porous asphalt
Choosing one of these options will affect the cost to install an asphalt driveway.
The Contractor
The cost of labor is almost always the most expensive part of the installation. You will want to hire a reputable contractor who is licensed and insured, and has years of experience to back up their work. Don’t spend thousands of dollars on a new driveway only to have mediocre results. Contact Asphalt Icons today. You can call us or fill out our online contact form – we’ll give you a competitive estimate and great service!
