The Complete Guide to Asphalt Paving for Homeowners and Businesses

Understanding asphalt paving helps homeowners and business owners make smart decisions and protect their investment.

Why Choose Asphalt?

Asphalt costs 30-40% less than concrete, can be used within 24-48 hours of installation, handles freeze-thaw cycles better than rigid materials, repairs easily and seamlessly, provides excellent traction, and is highly recyclable. In Lodi, NJ, where winters are harsh, asphalt's flexibility prevents cracking.

The Paving Process

Professional installation involves site preparation and demolition, grading for proper drainage (minimum 1% slope), sub-base installation (4-8 inches of compacted aggregate), binder layer application (2-3 inches), surface layer installation (1.5-2 inches), and thorough compaction. Proper installation is critical—shortcuts lead to premature failure.

Residential Considerations

Residential driveways typically measure 10-12 feet wide for single cars or 18-24 feet for double cars, with 4-6 inches total thickness. New installation costs $3-$7 per square foot, while resurfacing runs $1.50-$3.50 per square foot.

Commercial Requirements

Commercial parking lots need proper planning for ADA compliance, traffic flow, stormwater management, and appropriate thickness. Heavy traffic requires 6-8 inches or more. Well-maintained lots create positive impressions, reduce liability, and increase property value.

Essential Maintenance

Protect your asphalt with regular cleaning to remove debris, annual crack filling before problems expand, sealcoating every 2-3 years (extends life by 50%+), and immediate pothole repairs.

Resurfacing vs. Replacement

Resurfacing removes and replaces the top layer when the base is sound, adding 10-15 years at half the replacement cost. Complete replacement becomes necessary when the base fails, drainage issues exist, or damage extends throughout the entire thickness.

Maintenance Timeline

• Annually: Inspect, clean, fill cracks

• Every 2-3 Years: Sealcoat, touch up striping

• Every 10-15 Years: Consider resurfacing

• Every 20-30 Years: Plan for replacement

Choosing a Contractor

Look for local experience and reputation, proper licensing and insurance, detailed written estimates, quality materials, and written warranties. The cheapest bid often compromises quality.

Trust Local Expertise

For homeowners and businesses throughout Lodi and surrounding New Jersey areas, Parkway Paving LLC provides honest, transparent service backed by local expertise. Their team helps you select the right solution, offers clear all-inclusive pricing, and delivers reliable service from installation through maintenance.

Contact Parkway Paving LLC for straightforward guidance and dependable paving solutions that make your project successful.