Knowing the basics of proper driveway paving can help you make intelligent decisions about choosing the best contractor for your needs. While it’s nice to feel you’re saving money when planning a home improvement project, hiring a contractor who cuts corners or uses shoddy materials will end up costing you more in the end. This is why you need a basic understanding of what’s involved in a typical driveway paving project–and it all starts with the driveway base.
Think of a driveway paving job as more of a long-term proposition than a short-term fix. Even though a cheaply installed driveway may look great in the beginning, a contractor who doesn’t grade properly or uses low-quality materials is sure to disappoint you when your driveway deteriorates a year or two down the road. For this reason, you need to make sure you’re getting a strong, solid base on which to build your driveway.
You Deserve a Driveway That Lasts
First, a dependable driveway contractor takes the time to properly excavate and remove underlying clay, topsoil, and organic material. Then, they apply the necessary gravel and asphalt to the driveway area.
Based on the quality and composition of the soil, a good paving company will apply the correct amount of crushed gravel or Con-Bit (recycled concrete and crushed gravel) to ensure that the driveway is installed on a solid and well drained foundation.
However, if you’re lucky enough to have sandy soil on your property, then that may eliminate the need to expend the paving contractor’s time and materials on laying down gravel or Con-Bit prior to paving your driveway. Make sure you notify your paving contractor if this is the case.
Have questions or need a quote? Feel free to call or email us at United Asphalt Paving. Based in Fort Worth, we’re a family-owned business that uses only premium materials and offers professional paving and excavation services to businesses and homeowners throughout the Lone Star State.