Sealcoating is a protective, paint like substance, while resurfacing is installing a new layer of asphalt (usually 1”-2.5”) atop of the existing driveway.

Typically, a well installed driveway of any material (with proper care, and maintenance) should last 20+ years before any major repairs are necessary.

We cut roots on a daily basis, and have yet to hurt, or kill a tree. However, there is no guarantee on this.

There is no legal standard, or code for installing new driveways, walkways, or patios on private property, and there are many different methods, techniques, and materials at a contractors disposal.

If you already have a county/city apron (15’ of driveway which connects to a publicly maintained street), and its dimensions remain the same, no permits are needed other than HOA approval (if applicable).

Although this is a common problem, since this portion of the driveway is actually the city/county’s property (aka: the apron)… a permit must be pulled.

No, unlike concrete, high temperatures allow us more time to finish the asphalt surface.

Only during very extreme temperatures are we unable to pour concrete.

Concrete cannot be poured during freezing temperatures, but some asphalt projects can be done.

Most times, the driveway should be the final project to be completed when many home projects happen simultaneously.

Most asphalt driveways can be resurfaced (new layer), but if the existing driveway is very unlevel, cracked, or is a concrete driveway… then complete excavation is required.

Not necessarily… most driveways last longer if the existing asphalt driveway can be utilized as a base.

Asphalt, as it is impervious to ice melt chemicals, and salt in winter months, whereas concrete is extremely vulnerable.

In general, concrete is 2-3 times the price of asphalt. Brick is much higher still, and dependent upon choice of brick.

Although asphalt does require sealcoating with an asphalt based sealer… bi-yearly is usually recommended.

Joints at the garage, and walkways are excavated to avoid trip hazards. Excavation also aids in maintaining positive water drainage away from garage.

Usually, the new layer of asphalt will add 2” of height to the driveway along the grass line. A 45 deg beveled edge will be installed. It is recommended that dirt is used to backfill the edges for stabilization.

Usually the driveway can be used in 24-72 hours unless rare cirumstances occur.

Asphalt driveways require up to 2 years to fully cure, during which time care must be taken during hot temperatures as not to mark the surface. Concrete is usually cured within 6 months.

Yes, especially during hot temperatures over the curing period (2 years). Fortunately, tire marks are temporary.

Color additives are available for both mediums, but are expensive, sometimes detrimental, and not recommended for driveways.

Driveways that have been sealcoated repeatedly with a water based sealer can have a texture similar to sandpaper (not healthy). A properly installed asphalt driveway will be quite grainy in comparison.

Asphalt gets its black color from the adhesive, asphaltic tar used in the manufacturing process. As the tar degrades, the surface of the driveway will revert to the natural color of the stone in the mix, which is usually gray.

Asphalt is made up of sand, rock, and tar. When tar, or sand clump together, a smooth area is produced on the surface. When rock gathers, a rough area is produced on the surface. Like a countertop, asphalt is a natural stone product, subject to the same limitations, and inconsistencies.

It depends on how long you plan to keep the property, and how much is in your budget. Just be mindful that if left in disrepair over a bad winter, a small, relatively cheap fix can become a very expensive project in short time.

No… but asphalt is the best medium for this because it can be sealcoated to maintain a uniform color between the patch/repair, and the existing surface, but texture will always be different.

All materials are 100% recyclable. EPA regulations have forced great “eco friendly” strides in this industry.

This is by far the most complicated question we are asked. There is no legal standard for construction, and many different materials, and techniques are available to a contractor. Careful dissection of all contracts should be performed, and nothing should be taken for granted. Ultimately, you should choose the contractor who is responsive to communication… licensed, and insured… and with whom you feel comfortable with. Some projects can be very expensive, so be honest with yourself about what is within your budget. Choosing the lowest priced contractor on an expensive project vs. a more reasonable priced contractor for a lesser project is setting yourself up for disappointment.