SC Driveway Paving Charleston enhances your home and can boost curb appeal. There are many choices regarding material and design, including asphalt, gravel, brick pavers and concrete.
Cost is an important consideration, but so are maintenance and durability. Some materials require periodic resealing, while others need to perform better in cold climates.
The cost to resurface or pave a driveway depends on the type of material used and the contractor you hire. Some materials require more maintenance than others, so it’s important to consider the long-term costs of your project when calculating your budget. Additionally, paving materials are affected by weather and climate conditions, so you may need to reseal your driveway more frequently in colder regions.
Asphalt is the most popular paving material, but it can be more expensive than other options. It’s also more susceptible to damage from the sun, so it requires regular resealing. If you want to keep your asphalt driveway in good condition, consider hiring a professional to maintain it.
Reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) is cheaper than new asphalt and offers a similar lifespan. However, it’s not as durable and isn’t recommended for colder climates. A professional can help you determine which option is best for your home and budget.
Paving stones are another option for a more visually appealing and functional driveway. A stone paved driveway costs between $10 to $30 per square foot, including labor and materials. While they are more durable than asphalt, they can still crack and need resealing.
When choosing a stone paving company, get referrals from local contractors and check out their work on sites like Google and HomeGuide. Make sure the company is licensed, insured, and certified to work on your property.
A reputable contractor will lay down the necessary base and sub-base to ensure the surface lasts for decades. You can also ask your contractor to install a driveway gate to deter people from using your driveway as a shortcut or parking lot. A gate typically costs $850 to $3,600.
Whether you’re looking for a simple and inexpensive paved driveway or a more elegant, long-lasting option, you’ll need to find a professional contractor with experience in installing all types of paving materials. A reputable contractor will take the time to analyze your drainage needs and grade the site, which reduces future expenses. They will also use the right type of materials to minimize settling and shifting.
Materials
There are many different materials used for driveway paving, and the best choice depends on your needs and budget. Popular choices include asphalt, pavers and gravel. The type of material you choose should be durable and able to hold up to vehicle traffic and weather conditions. It should also be visually appealing, complementing the style of your home and landscaping.
Concrete is a durable option that can be finished in a wide range of textures and colors, making it a versatile choice for driveway paving. It is also environmentally friendly, as it is made from natural materials and can be recycled when it reaches the end of its life. However, it is quite heavy and can be difficult to install on a steep sloped driveway.
Pavement and asphalt are standard fixtures on roadways across the country, but these two surfaces differ from one another in several ways. Asphalt is typically more affordable, but it has a short lifespan and requires frequent repairs and resurfacing to prevent surface damage and cracking.
Gravel driveways are an affordable option, with prices starting at about $1 per square foot. They are durable and able to withstand heavy traffic, but they tend to rut over time. Ruts create a bumpy surface that is unpleasant to drive on and can pose hazards for pedestrians.
Aggregate driveways are made from crushed stone that is sourced locally. This paving material is eco-friendly, as it sinks into the ground and helps to alleviate storm water runoff that can pollute nearby surface water. Aggregate driveways are also porous, meaning they allow rainwater to soak into the soil rather than running off and pooling around the foundation of the house.
While paver driveways are expensive, they have a high aesthetic value. They are also long-lasting, with a lifespan of up to 20 years. They can be installed in a number of different styles, with brick pavers a popular choice for homeowners who want to achieve a classic old-world look.
For added durability and to limit weed growth, paver driveways should be coated with polymeric jointing sand after installation. This product is available in a variety of textures and can be purchased at most hardware stores. It should be swept into the joints and crevasses of each paver, using a leaf blower to ensure full coverage.
Installation
A driveway is one of the most important parts of your home’s exterior. It takes on the burden of weather and vehicle pressures, which is why it needs to be strong and durable. In addition, a well-maintained driveway can increase the value of your home. The type of driveway you choose depends on the climate, your budget and the amount of maintenance you want to do.
A paver driveway offers many benefits, including being easy to install and maintain. It is also affordable and looks great on any property. It is a good option for homeowners who live in colder climates, where other types of paving materials can crack and break during freeze-thaw cycles.
The first step in paving your driveway is to prepare the site. This includes removing any existing material and cleaning the area. You should check if there are any underground utilities in the area, and you must get permission from the utility companies before starting. You should also ensure that you have the right equipment to do the job. Some of the most important tools include a plate compactor, wheelbarrow and a skid steer. These can be rented from tool and equipment rental stores.
Once the area is cleaned, you need to lay down a base. This can be gravel, crushed stone or even concrete. The base should be at least 11 inches deep, and it is important to compact the material. It is also important to add a layer of mason sand over the base. The sand helps to lock the pavers in place and makes them less likely to shift.
When you’re ready to lay the pavers, make sure they are evenly spaced. They should overlap each other by at least half an inch. If possible, leave a little bit of space between each paver to allow for expansion and contraction of the soil underneath. Once the pavers are in place, run a plate compactor over them to help settle them in and pack them firmly.
Once the driveway is finished, you should sweep it regularly to remove dirt and debris. You should also treat oil and grease stains with a pressure washer. In addition, a regular application of driveway sealer can protect it from damage and keep it looking new for years to come.
Maintenance
Asphalt and pavement are standard fixtures on roadways, but there are some differences in installation and maintenance. Whether you choose gravel, clay or asphalt, it is important to inspect your driveway regularly and make repairs as soon as possible. These steps will help you avoid costly repairs and keep your driveway in good shape.
If your driveway is cracked, it may need to be repaired or even replaced. These cracks are caused by temperature changes, water and the weight of vehicles. Cracks that are left untreated can widen and become potholes. Potholes are unsightly and pose a danger to cars and people. They also affect the integrity of your driveway and can cause further damage if you continue to drive over them.
Inspect your driveway every winter and summer to spot problems early on. During these inspections, look for hairline cracks. If you find any, fill them immediately. Cracks can be filled with asphalt sealer and will prevent further damage to your driveway.
Another maintenance task is weed removal and surface cleaning. Using a power washer or pressure washer is best for removing dirt and debris from the surface of your driveway. Using a brush can also remove debris from the crevices of your driveway. Lastly, you should scrub the surface with a bristle brush to clean it from oil stains and other grime.
During the winter, your driveway will require salt or chemical de-icers to melt snow and ice. These chemicals are corrosive and can damage your driveway if they come in contact with it. To reduce the risk of damage, you should use a low-salt or potassium chloride product.
If you want to prolong the life of your driveway, you should reseal it every couple years. Resealing will protect the surface from damage and keep it looking new.
