Frequently Asked Questions

With proper installation and regular maintenance (including sealcoating every 2-3 years), a well-built asphalt driveway can last 20-30 years or more. Factors that affect longevity include climate conditions, traffic volume, and how well the underlying base was prepared.

We recommend waiting at least 24-48 hours before driving on new asphalt. For heavy vehicles (RVs, trucks), waiting 72 hours is ideal. The asphalt needs time to cure and harden properly. Walking on it is fine after about 6-8 hours.

Costs vary based on the size of the project, existing conditions, and material choices. Asphalt paving typically ranges from $4-7 per square foot. We provide free, detailed estimates after assessing your specific site. Contact us for a quote tailored to your project.

This depends on the condition of the existing asphalt. If the base is solid and damage is limited to surface cracks, potholes, or fading, an overlay or resurfacing may be sufficient. However, if you have extensive alligator cracking, deep potholes, or a failing base, replacement is often more cost-effective in the long run.

Asphalt is generally less expensive, faster to install, and easier to repair. It's also darker, which helps melt snow faster. Concrete is more durable in very hot climates but can crack more easily in freeze-thaw cycles. For driveways in North Carolina, asphalt is the most popular choice due to its durability and cost-effectiveness.

Cracks can be caused by several factors: freeze-thaw cycles, heavy vehicle traffic, UV oxidation, settling of the underlying base, and tree roots. Over time, the asphalt binder dries out and becomes brittle, leading to cracking. Regular sealcoating helps protect against UV damage.

New asphalt should cure for 6-12 months before its first sealcoating. The oils in fresh asphalt need time to escape. Sealing too soon can trap these oils and cause the asphalt to remain soft. After the first application, sealcoat every 2-3 years.

Sealcoat typically dries to the touch within 4-8 hours, depending on temperature and humidity. We recommend keeping vehicles and foot traffic off for 24-48 hours for the best results. Light traffic may be okay after 12-24 hours.

Yes! Proper grading is essential for any paving project. The sub-base must be graded to ensure proper drainage. Water is the biggest enemy of asphalt—without proper drainage and a solid, graded base, your new driveway will fail prematurely.

We recommend grading gravel driveways at least once a year, typically in spring. If you have heavy traffic or experience significant weather events, you may need to grade more frequently. Annual grading redistributes gravel, fills ruts, and improves drainage.