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There are plenty of factors that go into pouring an asphalt driveway. One that should be taken into account is the residential asphalt driveway thickness.
Before estimating how much asphalt you are going to need, you should be aware that the residential asphalt driveway thickness is going to vary depending on the soil type it is being laid on. Additionally, there are standards in the industry depending on the location.
When trying to estimate the specs for a residential asphalt driveway, there is no quick and easy way to know exactly what you’re going to need. The first step that you should take is finding out what kind of soil you have. That will require paying a soil engineer to come in and take a look, but it’s going to be worth that payment upfront to avoid damage repair costs to your bad asphalt driveway later on down the road.
A general guide to follow includes a pour of two different layers for new construction. Your first layer is going to be between 2 and four inches, and that’s what binds your asphalt to the surface of the soil. Any holes and loose materials are adequately taken care of with the first layer.
Following that setting in, you’re going to require another one to three inches of asphalt poured on the top layer. It will ensure that you aren’t dealing with a complaint about your new asphalt driveway not being smooth.
Take note that if for some reason you have larger commercial or heavy vehicles regularly traveling on your driveway, you are going to want a thicker pour. That will create a more stable surface that is less likely to crack and break under the weight.
The thickness of your driveway has been established, and the length is predetermined based on the distance from the house to the road. The question remains of what the typical width of an asphalt driveway is. There is room for adjustments here based on personal preference and how much money you have in your budget to pay for the materials.
Minimally, your driveway for a single car should be eight feet. Most people prefer a little more room and go with a width of ten feet. For a busier household with people and vehicles using the surface at the same time, 12 feet is the best option.
Now comes perhaps the most critical factor; the residential asphalt driveway cost. The price is going to vary depending on the service you use. It’s a good idea to call around and get some estimates before choosing one specific company.
Asphalt costs anywhere from around $2.50 to $4.00 for a square foot. There are applications online that you can punch in the specs for a residential asphalt driveway into an asphalt thickness calculator and get an estimate of how much material you will need. That will give you a better idea of what the final cost is going to be.
