Bricks, Masonry, Asphalt and Concrete - New asphalt driveway - 2 questions
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SueNew
07-17-06, 08:21 PM
I'd appreciate some advice for a new asphalt driveway:
1) Everything I read states that one should get at least 6" base, 2" asphalt layer. 3 contractors who provided estimates all recommended 4'' for the base. My 1 car is parked in the driveway; I do not expect heavy machinery, trucks, etc. there. Is a 6" base a waste or well spent money?
2) What's the best practice for the edges of a driveway, who is right?
a) A magazine stated:
"All too often contractors install the finished blacktop to the edge of the gravel base. As a result, since there is no support at the edges, they easily crack and crumble. Make sure that the gravel base is over one foot wider than the finished blacktop surface. The extra 6 inches of gravel hidden beneath the grass provide this much-needed support".
b) The contractors I called for estimates told me that the above is bad advice (it lets water go under the driveway); they insisted that the asphalt has to surround the gravel base and fully cover it.
1) Everything I read states that one should get at least 6" base, 2" asphalt layer. 3 contractors who provided estimates all recommended 4'' for the base. My 1 car is parked in the driveway; I do not expect heavy machinery, trucks, etc. there. Is a 6" base a waste or well spent money?
2) What's the best practice for the edges of a driveway, who is right?
a) A magazine stated:
"All too often contractors install the finished blacktop to the edge of the gravel base. As a result, since there is no support at the edges, they easily crack and crumble. Make sure that the gravel base is over one foot wider than the finished blacktop surface. The extra 6 inches of gravel hidden beneath the grass provide this much-needed support".
b) The contractors I called for estimates told me that the above is bad advice (it lets water go under the driveway); they insisted that the asphalt has to surround the gravel base and fully cover it.