Asphalt is a common material used for driveway and pavement construction. Asphalt driveways are more durable and less expensive compared to concrete driveways.

The cost of constructing an asphalt driveway varies with the region and the project specifications.

This article discusses the cost of asphalt driveways at different stages of construction.

Cost of Asphalt Driveway Construction

In general, an asphalt driveway constructed to cover an area of around 600 square feet costs around $4200 to $7800. The cost varies based on the type of asphalt material, the thickness of the driveway, and site conditions.

Usually, a hot mix asphalt is used, which costs around $100 to $200 per ton. One ton of asphalt is supposed to cover an area of 40 to 80 square feet.

Asphalt driveway construction cost comprises the following elements:

1. Cost of material
2. Cost of excavation and grading
3. Cost of labor
4. Cost of sealing and maintenance
5. Cost of Material

The main material used for asphalt driveways is asphalt. Asphalt driveway cost varies based on the type of asphalt used.

Different types of asphalt and their cost per unit are mentioned in Table-1 below:

Type of Asphalt   Cost

Recycled asphalt = $10 to $20 per ton
Porous asphalt = $8 to $15 per square foot
Cold mix asphalt = $10 to $50 per bag
Hot mix asphalt   = $100 to $200 per ton
Stamped asphalt = $12 to $17 per square foot
Colored asphalt = $12 to $17 per square foot

Cost of Surface Preparation

Before paving asphalt, the surface needs preparation and grading to get a solid base. The preparation may require excavation or filling works. Usually, this work is a hidden cost in asphalt driveway construction.

If the soil at the site is not of good grade and quality, new material must be arranged. The cost of soil material and aggregates varies from region to region.

The excavation work can cost between $1500 to $5100 depending on the depth of the soil that needs to be removed.

Grading and leveling of the site for paving can cost between $5 to $10 per square foot for professional graders. This cost may go up if the driveway is steep.

Cost of Labor

Labor cost is dependent on the working hours per day, driveway location (hills or curves costs high), and additional services like removal of soil and other activities. A driveway construction on flat land is easy and less expensive. The usual labor cost ranges from $5 to $7 per square foot.

Cost of Sealing and Maintenance

Asphalt sealants are applied as a thin layer on an existing surface. It typically costs $3 to $7 per square foot. The cost of asphalt is around $500. Asphalt sealing is recommended every 3 to 5 years during the driveway life.

Asphalt driveway provides a convenient and safe driving or walking surface. Its construction demands specific equipment and heavy labor performed under professional supervision.

Before accepting an asphalt driveway construction estimate, one should get multiple estimates from professional asphalt companies.