One question we hear often is, “Can I lay new asphalt over an existing concrete driveway?”
This is an excellent question asked by both homeowners and business owners. While it is possible to install asphalt over concrete, we don’t recommend it. Here are three reasons why it’s better to dig up concrete driveways before laying down asphalt.
1. You need a strong base.
The durability of your asphalt driveway depends on the strength of the underlying base. And concrete and asphalt sub-bases are different.
To give concrete more strength and stability, contractors lay a thicker slab. They don’t need to worry about preparing the base, so the ground underneath a concrete driveway may be susceptible to sinking or shifting – and there’s no way of knowing until it’s dug up.
An asphalt driveway needs a strong base to make it durable. When asphalt is poured over concrete that rests on an unstable base, the asphalt is prone to instability. Expansion joints in a concrete driveway will quickly turn into cracks in the asphalt – and these cracks require ongoing and costly repairs.
2. Your driveway will last longer.
Asphalt driveways last longer and look better when they are built from the ground up. Since asphalt pavement contracts and expands with changing temperatures, it requires a stable base that concrete cannot provide. It doesn’t make sense to pour asphalt over concrete knowing that the driveway will need expensive repairs or replacement in the near future.
3. You’ll save money in the long run.
Laying an asphalt driveway over concrete may be less expensive initially, but it will end up costing you more later. If you choose to lay asphalt on top of concrete, we cannot guarantee that your driveway won’t crack and pothole if the ground underneath shifts or sinks. The best way to save money is to spend a little more on proper installation – and save money on expensive and inconvenient repairs.
This blog explains everything you need to know about paving your driveway with asphalt.
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Ultimately, the decision to dig up old concrete before laying asphalt on top of it is up to you. But we believe that informed customers make the best decisions – and that’s why we’re always available to answer any asphalt questions you may have. Contact us today for a free estimate or to learn more about our services.
