If your concrete driveway is showing its age, you might be considering an asphalt overlay as a more affordable and quicker alternative to a full replacement. Paving asphalt over concrete is a common practice, but it comes with some important considerations. Here’s what you need to know before making your decision.
Yes, You Can Pave Over Concrete
In many cases, it’s entirely possible to pave over a concrete driveway with asphalt. Asphalt overlays can provide a fresh, smooth surface and restore functionality without the cost and labor of tearing out the existing concrete. This approach can save time and money while giving your driveway an updated appearance.
However, the success of an asphalt overlay depends on the condition of the concrete below. If the concrete is stable and free of significant structural issues, it can serve as a solid base for the asphalt. If the concrete is heavily cracked, uneven, or deteriorated, these problems can transfer to the asphalt and compromise its longevity.
The Importance of a Stable Base
A concrete driveway must possess a stable and solid foundation before receiving asphalt paving. Any cracks or shifting in the concrete can lead to cracks in the asphalt, as the flexible asphalt layer will follow the contours of the rigid concrete below.
To address this, contractors may use a leveling course or install a layer of geotextile fabric to prevent cracks from transferring to the asphalt. If the concrete is severely damaged or has major structural flaws, it’s best to remove and replace it before paving. Otherwise, you risk wasting money on an overlay that won’t last.
Preparing the Concrete for Asphalt
Before paving, the concrete surface must be properly prepared. This includes cleaning the surface thoroughly to remove dirt, debris, and oil stains that can affect the adhesion of the asphalt. Contractors will also check for drainage issues, as proper water runoff is critical to the longevity of the new asphalt layer. If the concrete doesn’t have the correct slope for drainage, adjustments may be necessary before paving.
Advantages of Asphalt Overlays
An asphalt overlay offers several benefits. It provides a smoother, more uniform surface that’s less prone to staining and easier to maintain than concrete. Asphalt is also more flexible, which allows it to withstand temperature changes and minor ground movements better than concrete.
Another advantage is cost. Paving over an existing concrete driveway with asphalt is typically more affordable than replacing the concrete entirely. Asphalt also has a quicker installation and curing process, meaning you can start using your driveway sooner.
Potential Drawbacks
While asphalt overlays are convenient, they aren’t suitable for every situation. If the underlying concrete is unstable, the overlay will be prone to cracking and other issues, potentially leading to costly repairs. Additionally, asphalt may not bond as securely to concrete as it does to an aggregate base, so proper preparation is essential.
It’s also worth noting that an asphalt overlay may raise the height of your driveway. This could create alignment issues with garages, sidewalks, or adjacent surfaces. Contractors can often adjust the thickness of the asphalt layer to minimize these problems, but it’s an important consideration to discuss during the planning phase.
Paving asphalt over a concrete driveway is a practical solution in many cases, but the project’s success depends on the existing concrete’s condition and proper preparation. At Walt’s Paving, we specialize in asphalt overlays and can assess whether your concrete driveway is a good candidate for this approach. Contact us today for expert advice and professional paving services to give your driveway a fresh, durable surface that stands the test of time.
How can Walt’s Paving help?
You can count on Walt’s Paving to complete your residential or commercial paving project in an efficient and timely manner. We have over 40 years of experience paving asphalt driveways, making asphalt repairs, and sealcoating asphalt. We are located in Osceola, IN, and service homeowners and businesses within 50 miles of Elkhart, IN. Call us today.
