Repaving a driveway or parking lot is an expensive endeavor. If you are not sure of the proper steps to take for a project like this, then you risk spending a large sum of money. Fortunately, there are a whole bunch of ways to cut project costs down while still receiving a quality job. Bearing that in mind, here are some tips for reducing paving costs!
Pave with Asphalt
Did you know that asphalt costs less than concrete? On top of that, asphalt offers virtually the same benefits that concrete does. This means that you will not have to trade cheapness for quality. The only difference that you will notice between the two is that asphalt requires more maintenance than concrete. Furthermore, asphalt has a slightly shorter lifespan. With that being said, these differences are negligible in the grand scheme of things. If you want to reduce paving costs, then go with asphalt!
Maintain Your Pavement
If you want to avoid repair costs and maximize your asphalt’s lifespan, you need to maintain it. Sealcoating your asphalt is a great way to ensure that it remains in tip-top shape. If you were not aware, seal coating your pavement creates a layer of protection over it. Sealcoating your asphalt means that it will have a shield protecting it from water damage and deterioration.
If you want to keep your pavement healthy, you should powerwash it consistently. Allowing sap and grout to build up on the pavement’s surface opens up all kinds of doors for decay. You should refrain from letting debris and dirt accumulate on your asphalt because doing so means you will not have to spend money in the future to fix it.
Nip the Problem in the Bud
If you notice divots and cracks appearing in your pavement, then you need to address them immediately. Overlooking a small problem is how bigger ones start to take over. Filling in those small cracks, although tedious, is mandatory if you want to nip the problem in the bud. Doing so will save you money on potentially bigger projects.
Find a Company You Can Trust
Finding a company that you can trust is important for reducing paving costs. A professional that can be trusted is not as common as you may be led to believe. The last thing you want to encounter is someone who is going to charge you for things that you do not need. Before hiring someone, you should check their reviews and set up a meeting with them. By doing this, you will be able to get a good grasp as to what kind of business they are running. Once you find a company that you can trust, you should get their opinion on what the first order of business is. If they truly have your best interest at heart, then they will work to help you reduce the paving costs.
How Project Size and Scope Affect Costs
The overall size and scope of your paving project have a significant impact on the final cost. Larger areas naturally require more materials, time, and labor, which can quickly drive up the total expense. However, larger projects can also benefit from economies of scale. For example, paving an expansive parking lot may be more cost-effective per square foot than a small driveway due to the efficiency of completing one large pour versus several smaller ones.
Beyond just square footage, the complexity of the job matters. A simple rectangular driveway with easy access is far less costly than a winding path with tight corners or elevation changes. More intricate designs and layouts often require additional planning, special equipment, or hand-finishing, all of which add to the price.
Site preparation is another critical factor. If your existing surface is in poor condition, or if there are issues like drainage problems, tree roots, or an unstable subgrade, the prep work required before paving can begin will increase the overall cost. Accessibility also plays a role — if crews and equipment have difficulty reaching the site, expect higher labor charges and potential delays.
By understanding how these variables influence pricing, you can better plan your project and communicate effectively with contractors. When in doubt, ask for detailed estimates that break down material, labor, and prep costs, so you can see exactly where your money is going.
How can we serve you?
The professional paving contractors at Sipes Asphalt & Concrete know the ideal conditions for pouring concrete or asphalt. Whether it’s a new driveway, parking lot, or crack sealing, we’ve got you covered. Call Sipes for your paving estimate and the best paving solutions in the Indianapolis area.
