If you have a deteriorating concrete driveway, you may wonder if you could save a few bucks by having an asphalt driveway installed over it instead of having it demolished first. Yes, you would save money and yes, you can do it this way. It is possible as long as the added elevation won’t pose a problem. However, there is a big difference between “can” you do it and “should” you do it.
While it would be less costly to lay new asphalt over concrete, there are significant issues to consider before going this route. The main thing to realize is that if you are already having trouble with the concrete, you need to know why. If it is a soil problem and it is shifting or sinking, that isn’t going to stop by putting an asphalt driveway over it. You’ll then be left with a real mess – both a concrete and an asphalt driveway that need to be removed.
Another thing to know is that concrete is installed with expansion joints. So even a concrete driveway in good condition can move about and result in cracks in the asphalt driveway above it. This can be minimized to some extent with an overlay before the asphalt is added, but this is not a long-term solution. While this doesn’t mean your asphalt driveway will fail, it does mean there will be added costs over time to deal with the cracks.
If you are considering laying asphalt over concrete for a driveway or other area and want to know if it is possible or recommended for your situation, don’t hesitate to give us a call at AAA Top Quality Asphalt. We’re happy to assess your driveway and give you honest answers to your questions. We have your best interest in mind so you and your family can enjoy your new driveway.