If you are reading this, you are probably a New Jersey resident whose driveway has lost its curb appeal, or are a new homeowner looking to have a new driveway installed, and you are taking the steps to ensure a quality surface for the best value.
COST OF A DRIVEWAY
When looking at what it’s going to cost for a new driveway, you first have to look at the material. You have some choices (Asphalt, concrete, tar & chip, brick pavers and more). As an asphalt paving company, we always tell our customers that Asphalt, or sometimes referred to as Blacktop, is the CHEAPEST, HARDEST, CLEANEST SURFACE FOR THE DOLLAR. In terms of cost, asphalt paving typically runs about $3.00 to $4.00 per square foot depending on the scope of the project (quality & topography of your property, slopes, curves, etc). Concrete is another choice, but typically runs about $6-7.00/SF. Stamped concrete is around $8-12/SF, but can reach as high as $18.00/SF for more complex projects. If you choose brick pavers, look to spend about $17-20.00/SF.
AESTHETICS
In terms of Aesthetics, beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Most of our prospective customers tell us they prefer an ‘extension of the road’ and choose asphalt. Although the color schemes of asphalt are limited to black and sometimes darker red, people prefer it because it can be sealcoated down the line to give it a new appearance. Although rarely requested, for an extra cost special tints can be added to asphalt either at the end as a sealer or during the mix process. Asphalt is better than concrete at concealing oil leaks and stains caused by cars as well.
DURABILITY
Another factor to consider is durability. You obviously want your investment to last the test of time to get the best bang for your dollar. Asphalt is an extremely durable surface. A properly installed, well-maintained asphalt driveway can last for 25 years or more. Asphalt is a great choice for a driveway, especially in the northeastern climates of the U.S.
REPAIR & MAINTENANCE
Asphalt surfaces can be repaired and blended much easier than concrete. You will want to keep an eye out for cracks. Even small, hairline fractures can expand into large gaps and potholes and create problems if left untreated. Asphalt driveways should be treated within 6 months to one year after installation, then every other year or two, depending on the amount of traffic. Although this adds to the cost, this will not only beautify your property, but protect against the elements like water, chemicals, salt and oil. Concrete can be sealed to preserve the look and finish.
OTHER COSTS
Other costs may figure into the cost of your new driveways no matter what material you choose.
Drainage is a factor that will extend the life of your driveway or private road. If your driveway slopes toward your house, French drains can be installed to divert the water. Although rare, some communities and HOA’s have requirements that must be addressed as to the handling of water from your property and may require drains at the end of the driveway.
Local material costs such as fuel, material and freight can fluctuate, which will lead to higher or lower prices.
Petromatting – Petromat is a geotextile that is coated with a cement tack that is laid in between the surface of the paved driveway. This leads to greater stress absorbance, less water infiltration and extends the life of residential asphalt surfaces.