Are you thinking about installing a blacktop driveway? With the right contractor, you can have a driveway that adds to the aesthetic of your home and also improves its value. Before you jump in and hire a contractor, it’s important to do your research and choose the right one for the job.
In this article, we’ll discuss the benefits of a blacktop driveway, tips for choosing the right contractor, and how to properly prepare and maintain your driveway. Let’s get started!
Benefits of Blacktop Driveways
A blacktop driveway offers a multitude of advantages, giving homeowners a cost-effective and long-lasting solution to their paving needs. One of the main durability advantages of having a blacktop driveway is that it is resistant to cracking and is able to withstand extreme temperatures.
This means that it requires less maintenance and can last up to 35 years with proper care. Its dark black color also helps to retain heat during the winter months, helping to melt snow and ice faster than other materials.
Along with its durability, a blacktop driveway also provides cost savings. This is due to the cost-effectiveness of the material and the ease of installation.
It is also easier to repair than other types of driveways, which can save you money on repairs. Additionally, blacktop driveways can be sealed to help protect them from extreme weather and wear and tear.
The appeal of blacktop driveways lies in the fact that they are able to withstand the elements and provide a safe and attractive option for any home.
They are also easy to maintain and can last for many years without the need for expensive repairs.
With its durability advantages, cost savings, and easy installation, blacktop driveways are an ideal solution for homeowners looking to upgrade their driveways.
Tips for Choosing a Contractor
Choosing a contractor for your blacktop driveway installation can be a daunting task. To ensure the best results, it’s important to check references, ask for an estimate, and verify insurance and licensing. Take the time to do your due diligence and you can rest assured that the job will be done right.
Check References
Before signing any agreement with a contractor, make sure to check their references and get a clear idea of their past work. This will give you the peace of mind that the contractor you’ve chosen is experienced and trustworthy. Here are a few steps to help guide your reference check process:
- Ask for references from the contractor and contact them to ask about their experience with the contractor.
- Ask if the contractor is familiar with the latest resurfacing options and waterproofing techniques for blacktop driveways.
- Make sure to ask about the quality of the work, the timeline, and the cost of the project.
By taking the time to do your due diligence, you can ensure that you find the most qualified contractor for your blacktop driveway project. This will help you get the best value for your money and a quality job that will last for years to come.
Ask for an Estimate
Once you’ve checked out references, get an estimate from the contractor to get an idea of the cost and timeline for the project.
An estimate should provide a detailed breakdown of the project, including materials, labor, and any additional costs that may be incurred. Make sure to get estimates from multiple contractors so you can compare the costs and determine the best value.
Doing a cost comparison can help you save money on the project and ensure you get the most bang for your buck. You may also want to consider doing the project yourself to save even more money.
Doing it yourself can be a great way to save money, but it’s important to factor in the time and resources it will take to complete the project.
Verify Insurance and Licensing
Verify that the contractors you’re considering are properly insured and licensed to complete the work on your project. Before hiring a contractor to work on your blacktop driveway, take time to research the reviews of the contractors you’re considering.
Make sure to check their qualifications and compare quotes to ensure that you are getting the best value for your money. Additionally, it is important to verify that the contractors you are considering have the necessary insurance and licensing to perform the work.
Ask for proof of insurance, and make sure the contractor is licensed to do the job in your state. Taking the time to do this research can save you from potential headaches down the line.
Preparing Your Driveway for Installation
Understand the process of preparing your project for installation so you can get the most out of your investment. A blacktop driveway installation is a major undertaking and if done correctly, it will provide you with years of service and satisfaction. Before the installation process begins, it is important to examine the driveway and determine if any drainage solutions or weatherproofing solutions are necessary. This will ensure that your driveway can withstand the elements and remain in good condition for years to come.
Having a professional contractor come to inspect the driveway is the best way to ensure that any issues are identified and addressed. This allows them to make any necessary repairs and modifications prior to installing the blacktop.
It is also important to ensure that the ground underneath the driveway is level and free of any obstructions. This will ensure that the installation process is completed quickly and properly.
Once your driveway is properly prepared, your contractor can begin installing the blacktop. It is important to ensure that the driveway is properly sealed and any cracks are filled to keep water from getting underneath and eroding the foundation. A well-installed blacktop driveway will provide you with a durable surface that will last for many years to come.
Blacktop Driveway Installation Process
Installing a blacktop driveway requires careful planning and execution. You’ll need to begin by excavating the area, then installing a solid base, and finally pouring the asphalt.
This process takes time and requires a skilled contractor, but the result is a beautiful and durable blacktop driveway that lasts for years.
Excavation
Before beginning the excavation, it’s essential to ensure that all necessary permits are in place and that the surrounding environment is properly protected.
Excavation is a crucial step in the blacktop driveway installation process, as it involves digging out the area to create a level surface for the asphalt. Here are the three key elements of the excavation process that you should be aware of:
- Pavement depth: The pavement depth will determine the thickness of the blacktop. The contractor should take into consideration the soil composition and the weight of vehicles that will be driving on the driveway.
- Grading requirements: Properly grading the surface is essential for a smooth finish. The contractor will need to follow local codes and regulations to make sure that the driveway is properly graded.
- Drainage: Good drainage is essential to avoid flooding. The contractor will need to calculate the slope of the driveway to make sure that the water will flow away from the house.
The contractor should have the necessary experience and equipment to complete the excavation process correctly.
It’s also important to keep an eye out for any underground utilities that could be affected by the excavation. Taking these steps will ensure that your blacktop driveway is installed correctly and safely.
Base Installation
You’ll need the right equipment and know-how to create a solid foundation for your asphalt surface, so make sure you have a qualified professional to help with the base installation.
A professional contractor can ensure proper preparation of the base, including patching any cracks and providing adequate drainage solutions.
This is critical for the longevity of your blacktop driveway, as without the proper base, any asphalt surface will be prone to cracking, potholes, and other damage caused by wear and tear. Investing in a quality base installation will save you money in the long run, as it will help protect your asphalt surface from premature deterioration.
Asphalt Paving
Once the foundation is secure, experienced asphalt pavers will lay down the smooth, durable surface that will last for years to come.
Asphalt paving is a cost-effective solution for blacktop driveways, providing long-term benefits in terms of durability and longevity.
The experienced contractors you hire will ensure that the asphalt is laid properly and compacted correctly, resulting in a stable surface that can withstand the elements and the weight of vehicles.
The resulting blacktop driveway will last for many years, proving to be a great investment for your home. Asphalt paving is also a great choice if you are looking for a quick and easy installation process, as it can be completed in a fraction of the time that other driveway materials would require.
With its cost-effectiveness and longevity benefits, asphalt paving is an excellent choice for a blacktop driveway.
Maintaining Your Blacktop Driveway
Maintaining your blacktop driveway is important to keep it looking good and functioning properly. Sealing it every two to three years is the best way to protect it from the elements.
Repairing any cracks or other damage is key, as well as dealing with any oil and gas spills as soon as possible. With a little TLC, your blacktop driveway will stay beautiful and durable for years.
Sealing
Sealing your driveway is the key to keeping it looking great for years to come. To protect your blacktop driveway, you’ll need to select the right sealant and apply it correctly. Depending on the condition of your driveway, the sealer you choose will depend on your needs.
A good sealant should be resistant to oil, gas, salt, and other chemicals that can damage the surface. In addition, it should be flexible enough to resist cracking as the ground beneath your driveway moves.
After selecting the right sealant, it’s time to apply it. The best way to ensure a lasting seal is to apply two coats, giving the sealant time to dry in between.
The first coat should be applied with a roller, while the second coat should be applied using a brush or sprayer. By taking the time to properly seal your driveway, you’ll ensure that it stands up to the elements and remains a beautiful part of your home for years to come.
Repairing Damage
If your driveway is already showing signs of damage, it’s important to take care of it quickly to prevent further deterioration. Patching cracks and sealing seams are two common ways to repair damage to a blacktop driveway. Patching cracks is a relatively simple process. All that is needed is a patching material that is matched the existing asphalt color, a trowel, and a putty knife. Once the patching material has been applied, it should be spread evenly and then smoothed down with the trowel. Sealing seams is also a fairly simple process.
The first step is to clean the area of any dirt or debris. Then, a sealant should be applied with a brush and allowed to dry. After the sealant has dried, any excess material should be removed and the area should be given time to cure. Both of these processes should be completed by a professional contractor in order to ensure the best results.
Dealing with Oil and Gas Spills
Taking care of oil and gas spills on your driveway can be a messy job, but it’s worth it to keep it looking its best! If you find yourself dealing with oil and gas spills on your blacktop driveway, the most important step is to remove the spill as soon as possible.
This can be done with a degreasing solution or an oil-proof barrier, both of which can be easily applied with a spray bottle and a brush.
Not only will this help keep your driveway looking good, but it will also help prevent the oil or gas from seeping into the asphalt or concrete, which could cause long-term damage.
After the spill has been cleaned, you should consider applying an oil-proofing agent to protect your driveway from future spills. This will help keep your driveway looking its best for years to come!
Conclusion
You’ve made the decision to get a blacktop driveway and now you want to find the right contractor. You want the job done right and you want it to last. With the right contractor and a little preparation, you can enjoy your new driveway for years to come.
Do your research, get references, and make sure the contractor is properly licensed and insured. By taking the time to find the right contractor, you’re ensuring the job will be done right and your driveway will look great.
So, don’t rush the process, find a contractor you can trust and you’ll be sure to have a beautiful driveway to enjoy for years to come.
