Switching from concrete to asphalt pavement is a great way to reduce maintenance costs and increase your driveway’s lifespan. Despite this, many homeowners refrain from doing this due to the hassle of tearing out the base layer of concrete. Many homeowners fail to realize that they do not have to do this at all. Paving asphalt over concrete is a perfectly reasonable option if you want a sturdy and cost-effective solution. So can you put asphalt over concrete? Here is what you need to know!
What are the Side Effects of Paving Asphalt Over Concrete?
As a whole, there are not many downsides to paving asphalt over concrete. The concrete mix strengthens the overall performance of asphalt as it provides it with a steady base that will help absorb impact and wear. That said, if the job is done incorrectly, problems can and will occur.
Concrete has expansion joints that asphalt does not, meaning that heat and cold will cause the material to shift. This creates unevenness in the pavement which leads to a bumpy feeling when driving over it. On top of this, if there is any concrete deterioration, it may spread to the top layer over time. Cracks on the surface of the concrete will soon appear in the asphalt if left unchecked.
How Do You Lay Asphalt on Concrete?
To lay asphalt on concrete, there are a couple of things you want to do in preparation. As mentioned before, if the concrete is uneven or has deteriorated, then it is not fit to serve as a sturdy base. You should fill in any cracks and grind out the surface, so it is smooth. The reason for this is that the smooth surface enhances the bond between the two materials.
You should also ensure that you use the proper asphalt mix to achieve the best results possible. Hot-mix asphalt is superior to cold-mix asphalt when it comes to large-scale projects, so ensure the weather is hot enough to install it.
How Thick Should Asphalt be Over Concrete?
The thickness of your asphalt matters as you want to ensure that it will hold whatever will be driven over it. If you are working on a small-scale project such as a driveway, 2-3 inches will fulfill your needs depending on your vehicle. If the project is more significant such as a residential lot, then you should lay down a minimum of 3 inches. This thickness guarantees that it will be able to hold large trucks and heavy equipment.
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.
