What Are Your Options For Paving A Gravel Or Dirt Driveway?
There's no denying the appeal of fresh blacktop. Asphalt driveways can make homes look sharp and fresh, improving their overall curb appeal while providing a smooth and comfortable driving surface. However, dirt and gravel driveways are still relatively common. If you have one of these driveways at your home, residential paving may be an easy and effective upgrade option.
Why Should You Upgrade?
Dirt and gravel driveways can have a few advantages, such as providing a rustic appearance for homes in rural settings. It's also relatively easy to fix and maintain gravel, although it requires more frequent attention and maintenance when compared to asphalt or concrete. However, even if you're happy with your current driveway, there are a few reasons to consider an upgrade.
Aside from aesthetic considerations, asphalt has many advantages. For example, damage to gravel and dirt driveways can often become costly very quickly. A dirt or gravel driveway with significant potholes can sink and shift, and repairing it may require substantial regrading. On the other hand, a properly constructed asphalt driveway generally provides a solid and long-lasting foundation.
Gravel and dirt can also be hard on vehicles. Driving over rough, uneven surfaces puts wear and tear on suspension components, and the problem will only get more severe as the driveway ages. Keeping the driveway maintained consistently can help mitigate these issues, but it's often difficult to prevent issues from developing altogether.
What Are Your Options?
The steps necessary to convert a gravel or dirt driveway into a paved surface will depend on numerous factors, including the condition and design of your existing driveway. Paving a smooth, well-maintained, and correctly graded gravel driveway is usually relatively straightforward. In these cases, you may be able to install asphalt or tar and chip over your existing driveway.
Dirt driveways or poorly-maintained gravel driveways are typically more challenging. You'll need to repair potholes or grading issues before paving can begin. However, the presence of an existing dirt driveway can still save you some money. Since you already have a driving surface in place, you usually won't need to perform substantial excavation.
Whatever the case, it's always critical to have a professional evaluate your existing surface for correct grading, soil condition, and other factors that can impact the appearance and longevity of your new driveway. These extra preparation steps are essential to create a surface that will remain trouble-free for many years.
Although converting a dirt or gravel driveway to asphalt isn't always cheap, the long-term benefits are worthwhile. Instead of dealing with the headaches and maintenance of a rough, uneven, and often unattractive surface, you'll get to enjoy the many advantages of a smooth and durable asphalt driveway.
