The primary cost is often quoted per square foot, but the total expense encompasses materials, labor, preparation, and several other variables.

National Average Cost for Asphalt Replacement

The cost to replace an asphalt driveway typically ranges from $7 to $13 per square foot. For an average-sized residential driveway of approximately 600 square feet, this translates to a total project cost between $4,200 and $7,800. This range can fluctuate based on regional price differences, the complexity of the job, and the specific materials chosen.

Detailed Breakdown of Asphalt Replacement Costs

Several components contribute to the overall price of replacing an asphalt driveway:

Key Factors

Beyond the basic components, several other elements can sway the final price of your asphalt driveway project:

• Asphalt Mix & Quality: Different types of asphalt mixes are available:
  • Hot Mix Asphalt (HMA): The most common type for residential driveways, applied hot.
  • Warm Mix Asphalt (WMA): Produced and applied at lower temperatures, potentially offering environmental benefits and a longer paving window.
  • Porous Asphalt: Allows water to penetrate, reducing runoff, but may have specific base requirements and higher costs.
  The quality and specific additives in the mix also affect price.
• Labor Costs: As mentioned, these are subject to local market rates, crew experience, and project complexity.
• Site Preparation: Beyond basic removal and base, complex site issues like poor soil conditions, extensive tree root removal, or significant re-grading will add to the preparation costs. Ensuring proper sub-base preparation is essential for asphalt.
• Geographical Location: Material and labor costs vary significantly across different regions of the country. Urban areas often have higher prices than rural locations.
• Driveway Size and Design:
  • Size: Larger driveways cost more overall but may have a slightly lower cost per square foot due to economies of scale.
  • Design: Simple rectangular driveways are less expensive than those with curves, complex shapes, or steep slopes, which require more intricate work.
• Drainage: Implementing effective drainage solutions is important for asphalt longevity. This might include installing French drains, culverts, or specific grading, adding to the project cost.
• Edging: Optional edging materials can enhance appearance and provide structural support:
  • Belgian Block (Granite): Durable and attractive, but expensive.
  • Concrete Curbs: A mid-range option.
  • Paver Edging: Offers various styles.
  These additions will increase the overall project budget.
• Accessibility of Site: If the driveway area is difficult for heavy machinery (pavers, rollers, dump trucks) to access, labor costs may increase due to the additional time and effort required.
• Time of Year: Asphalt paving is weather-dependent. The paving season is typically spring through fall. Scheduling work during peak season might lead to higher demand and prices. Off-season work may not be possible in colder climates due to temperature requirements for asphalt application.

Cost-Saving Considerations for Asphalt Driveway Replacement

While a full replacement offers a brand-new surface, there are ways to manage expenses or alternative solutions if your driveway’s base is still sound:

Asphalt Resurfacing/Overlay

This is a very common and cost-effective alternative to full replacement.

• What is it? Asphalt resurfacing (or overlay) involves applying a new layer of asphalt (typically 1.5 to 2 inches thick) over the existing, cleaned, and repaired surface.
• When is it an option? It’s suitable if the existing driveway’s foundation (sub-base) is stable and the surface has only minor to moderate issues like surface cracks, slight settlement, or a worn appearance. It is not recommended for driveways with extensive, deep cracking (“alligator cracking”), significant potholes, or drainage problems, as these indicate base failure.
• Cost: Resurfacing generally costs 40-60% less than a full replacement, typically ranging from $3 to $7 per square foot. This makes it an attractive option for extending the life of a driveway without the expense of a complete tear-out and rebuild.

Mill and Overlay

A more advanced form of resurfacing, “milling and overlay” involves using a milling machine to remove the top 1 to 2 inches of the old asphalt before the new layer is applied.

• Benefits: This creates a better bond for the new asphalt, removes surface irregularities, and can help maintain the existing grade and drainage.
• Cost: More expensive than a simple overlay but less than a full replacement, it provides a high-quality, durable repair.

Methods for Replacing an Asphalt Driveway

When it’s time for a new asphalt surface, contractors primarily use one of these methods:

1. Full Replacement (Remove and Repave): This is the most comprehensive and often necessary method if the existing driveway has extensive damage or base failure.
   • Demolition & Removal: The old asphalt (and potentially the sub-base) is broken up and hauled away.
   • Sub-base Preparation: The existing base is regraded and compacted. New aggregate material is added as needed to create a stable foundation, typically 4-8 inches thick.
   • Asphalt Laying (Paving): Hot mix asphalt is delivered and laid using a paving machine in one or two layers (binder course and surface course) to the desired thickness (usually 2-3 inches compacted for residential).
   • Compaction: Heavy rollers are used to compact the asphalt, ensuring density and a smooth surface.
2. Asphalt Resurfacing/Overlay: As detailed previously, this involves applying a new layer of asphalt over the existing, prepared surface. The steps include:
   • Cleaning: Thoroughly sweeping and pressure washing the old surface.
   • Repair: Filling significant cracks and potholes.
   • Tack Coat: Applying a bituminous adhesive (tack coat) to help the new asphalt bond with the old.
   • Paving & Compaction: Laying and compacting the new asphalt layer.
3. Mill and Overlay: This method combines elements of repair and resurfacing:
   • Milling: Removing the top 1-2 inches of the existing asphalt surface using a milling machine. This helps correct surface imperfections and ensures the new layer doesn’t excessively raise the driveway’s height.
   • Cleaning: Sweeping the milled surface.
   • Tack Coat: Applying a tack coat.
   • Paving & Compaction: Laying and compacting the new asphalt overlay.

Pros and Cons of Asphalt Driveways

Asphalt is a popular choice for driveways, offering a balance of cost-effectiveness and performance.

Advantages of Asphalt Driveways

• Lower Initial Cost: Generally, asphalt is less expensive to install upfront compared to concrete, often by 30-50%.
• Flexibility: Asphalt is more flexible than concrete, making it less prone to cracking due to frost heave or minor ground movements, though it can still develop cracks.
• Easier and Cheaper to Repair: Small cracks and holes in asphalt can be easily and relatively inexpensively patched or sealed. Resurfacing is also a cost-effective option.
• Faster Installation and Curing Time: An asphalt driveway can typically be installed more quickly than concrete and is often ready for use within 24-48 hours (for light vehicle traffic), whereas concrete requires several days to a week or more to cure sufficiently.
• Good for Cold Climates: The black color of asphalt absorbs heat from the sun, which can help melt snow and ice faster. Its flexibility also helps it withstand freeze-thaw cycles better than rigid concrete.
• Sealcoating Benefits: Regular sealcoating (every 3-5 years) can significantly extend its life, protect it from water and chemical damage, and restore its rich black appearance.

Disadvantages of Asphalt Driveways

• Shorter Lifespan: Asphalt driveways typically last 15-20 years, sometimes up to 25-30 years with excellent maintenance and ideal conditions. This is generally shorter than concrete, which can last 30+ years.
• Regular Maintenance Required: Asphalt needs periodic sealcoating every 3-5 years to protect it and maintain its appearance. Cracks should be filled promptly.
• Can Soften in Extreme Heat: In very hot weather, asphalt can become pliable and susceptible to indentations from sharp objects or heavy, stationary loads (like trailer jacks or motorcycle kickstands).
• Susceptible to Damage from Spills: Petroleum-based products like gasoline, oil, and transmission fluid can dissolve the binders in asphalt if not cleaned up quickly, especially if the driveway isn’t properly sealed.
• Limited Color/Design Options: Asphalt is typically black. While some color tints or surface treatments exist, they are less common and add to the cost, offering fewer aesthetic choices than concrete (which can be stamped, stained, or colored).

Asphalt vs. Concrete Driveways: A Detailed Cost and Feature Comparison

Choosing between asphalt and concrete is a common dilemma for homeowners. Here’s a comparison to help you decide:

Initial Cost: Asphalt generally has a lower upfront installation cost.
Long-Term Cost & Maintenance: Asphalt requires more frequent maintenance (sealcoating), which adds to its long-term expense. Concrete has lower routine maintenance but repairs, when needed, can be more substantial. The true long-term cost depends on lifespan and maintenance diligence for both.
Durability & Lifespan: Concrete typically boasts a longer lifespan. Asphalt’s flexibility makes it resilient against certain stresses.
Aesthetics: Concrete offers far more decorative options. Asphalt provides a classic, uniform black surface.
Climate Suitability: Asphalt’s dark color and flexibility are advantageous in colder regions. Concrete performs well in heat.
Repairability: Asphalt is generally simpler and cheaper to repair, with resurfacing being a viable mid-life option.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a paved surface last? With proper installation and regular maintenance (including sealcoating every 3-5 years and prompt crack repair), a properly installed surface can last 15 to 20 years, sometimes longer in milder climates or with thicker applications.

How often should I seal my paved surface? It’s generally recommended to sealcoat 6-12 months after installation and then every 3 to 5 years thereafter, depending on climate and wear.

Can I pave a surface myself? Full paving is not a DIY project. It requires specialized, heavy equipment (pavers, rollers), expertise in grading and material application, and access to hot mix asphalt which is typically sold in large quantities. Minor repairs like crack filling or small pothole patching can be done by homeowners.

Is resurfacing a good option for my surface? Resurfacing can be an excellent, cost-effective option if the foundation is still in good condition and the existing damage is primarily superficial (e.g., surface cracks, fading, minor wear). It’s not suitable for surfaces with major structural issues like large potholes or extensive alligator cracking.

How much does it cost to remove an old paved surface? The cost to remove an old paved surface typically ranges from $1 to $3 per square foot. This includes breaking up the existing material and hauling it away. If you are removing concrete to lay asphalt, the removal cost will be higher.