If you want to repair your driveway or completely upgrade it, you will most likely choose between a paving method using asphalt or concrete. Both these materials are durable options that will improve the look of your driveway, but they also differ in terms of installation, maintenance, sustainability, and price.

Before you decide on what material you want to use in paving your driveway, find out how both concrete and asphalt compare in varied ways and which one would work best for your driveway.

Installation and paving

Installing concrete takes about seven days to finalize and cure, and waiting a week to drive a vehicle over it is necessary so as not to ruin the installation and the wet concrete mixture. On the other hand, asphalt can be driven on as soon as you install it and will take only two days for it to dry completely.

Maintenance

When you begin to contemplate asphalt to be placed on your driveway, you should take into account that asphalt needs to be sealed a year after installation and again every five years. Sealing your asphalt driveway will ensure the material’s longevity and durability, and neglecting to do this step will result in your asphalt wearing in a shorter length of time. Homeowners who want to cut costs can seal their asphalt themselves without the help of professionals.

Concrete also needs to be sealed, but not as much as asphalt. Sealing concrete will amplify its look and helps maintain it for long-term use. And like sealing asphalt, applying a seal on concrete can be done without professional assistance.

Durability

Both asphalt and concrete will begin to crack and deteriorate after some time, and sometimes repairs are necessary. If properly sealed and maintained, concrete can last homeowners up to 50 years, and asphalt remains intact for at least 30.

Climate

Asphalt is best used in climates that aren’t so exposed to the heat. When the weather reaches a certain temperature, asphalt can become viscous, and the material will easily get stuck on your shoes, hands, tires, and on anything that comes into contact with it. Because of asphalt’s inability to stay undamaged in scorching heat, concrete would work best in places that often see the temperatures increase. In frigid temperatures, concrete is often too prone to cracks.

Concrete and asphalt are both deemed somewhat environmentally friendly as they consist of recyclable materials. Because concrete lasts for such a long time, it reduces waste. While asphalt requires 20% more energy to produce than other materials, it also utilizes petroleum products and can actually release oils when warm.

Costs

Asphalt tends to be cheaper to use, costing about $2-$5 per square foot. Concrete can be double the prices of asphalt and can cost $4-$10 per square foot–yet this is still relatively inexpensive. Finishes and maintenance will increase the price of the total cost of installation, particularly with asphalt that needs to be resurfaced and sealed every five years for upkeep.

Economy Paving is your trusted Calgary paving project partner. Working with municipal, commercial and residential customers, we provide complete solutions for driveways & parking lots, road ways, infrastructure projects, and more. If you’re searching for reliable Calgary concrete contractors call or email us and we’ll provide you with a free estimate. We maintain an Alberta Certificate of Recognition and an A+ Rating on the BBB

The average cost to pave a driveway is influenced by a number of factors, not the least of which is your selection of a Calgary paving company. Other factors include the size of the project, the type of asphalt paving, and the requirements of the project.

Factors Affecting the Cost of Calgary Paving

Size

The size of the project will play a big role in your Calgary paving project, especially for driveways. Driveways come in all shapes and sizes in Calgary, and yours will fall into a bracket of associated costs. Therefore, understanding the size of your driveway can play a significant role in determining the costs and making informed hiring decisions.

Type of Asphalt Paving

The type of your Calgary paving material will also have an impact on the cost. You can choose the cheapest option offered by your paving company of choice, but this will likely lead to a shorter term of life and an increased likelihood of potential issues. Therefore, knowing your options beforehand, and speaking candidly with your paving company will ensure a successful project that stands the test of time.

Project Requirements

Another factor influencing the cost of paving your driveway is the project requirements. Yes, it may seem straightforward to you that the only part of your project is paving the driveway. However, some people wish to add additional items to the project, which might include things like paving stones to your backyard, repouring the steps up to your house, or a custom design or finish for your driveway.

Blacktop Paving Road with Slipform Paver

Make sure that you understand the possibilities that your driveway paving holds so that you can take full advantage of the situation. Again, speaking with your paving company of choice is an effective way to supplement your options and will offer you an accurate list of opportunities.

The Average Cost of Driveway Paving

While all of the factors listed above will play an essential role in the final price of your driveway paving, there are some standards that you can use as a baseline. For instance, the average cost of asphalt paving generally ranges from $1000 – $8000 for a two-car paving space. Particularly, the price of a two-car driveway is $3,600, but in addition to the factors listed above, your specific location and city will play a role in the cost. Happy paving hunting, and enjoy the search!

Economy Paving is your trusted Calgary paving project partner. Working with municipal, commercial and residential customers, we provide complete solutions for driveways & parking lots, roadways, infrastructure projects, and more. If you’re searching for reliable Calgary concrete contractors, call us at 403-278-7727 or email us at [email protected].

As a business owner, you understand that it’s important to make a good impression. This includes your parking lot. If your lot is currently unpaved, it makes sense to finish it professionally. Consider these four reasons to get your parking lot paved by an asphalt paving company.

The Four Reasons To Get Your Parking Lot Paved

Cleaner Paving in Calgary

A paved parking lot is cleaner than one made of gravel or dirt. This means less dust, mud, and gravel gets tracked into your business or finds its way on or in your customers’ cars. It’s also easier to clean an asphalt lot and keep it free of trash and debris.

A Safer Calgary Parking Lot

Asphalt paving leaves behind a smooth asphalt surface, which is safer for anyone with a stroller, cane, walker, or wheelchair. It’s also easier for cars to drive on and less likely to make vehicles skid. The smooth surface also makes painted parking lines and accessibility ramps possible.

Increased Curb Appeal with Paving

Asphalt looks more professional than an unpaved parking lot. Asphalt paving lets you improve the space even more by adding elements such as landscaped islands. Regular cleaning and line stripping help keep the space looking fresh and appealing.

Low Maintenance with Asphalt Paving Companies

Asphalt is a durable material that requires little maintenance. Regular cleanings and occasional resealing by an asphalt paving company are usually all that’s required to keep the lot in good condition. An unpaved lot, in contrast, requires regular raking and re-leveling to maintain an even surface. It’s also more likely to develop holes and ruts often. Filling those holes and ruts is the only way to keep an unpaved parking lot free of mud puddles. An asphalt parking lot saves you a lot of time.

Convinced? Get ready to take advantage of an asphalt parking lot by contacting a paving company.

Economy Paving is your trusted Calgary paving project partner. Working with municipal, commercial and residential customers, we provide complete solutions for driveways & parking lots, roadways, infrastructure projects, and more. If you’re searching for reliable Calgary concrete contractors, call us at 403-278-7727 or email us at [email protected].

Trying to decide between concrete and asphalt for your next paving project? Both materials offer advantages and disadvantages depending on the situation. Here’s a look at asphalt versus concrete paving to help you decide.

The Climate for Calgary Paving

One factor that’s often overlooked when choosing a paving material is the climate. Asphalt is a better choice for areas with cold, harsh winters because it isn’t affected by cold and doesn’t break down from salt. This results in fewer asphalt repairs in Calgary. Concrete, on the other hand, deteriorates more quickly with salt use and as it expands and contracts with freeze/thaw cycles. Asphalt also helps snow and ice melt more quickly because it absorbs more heat from the sun. In warmer climates, concrete is a better choice. In areas with hot summer temperatures asphalt can get very hot; it also softens and gets oily in high temperatures.

The Environmental Impact of Asphalt Paving Companies in Calgary

Asphalt is considered an environmentally-friendly paving material because it is recyclable. Grinding up asphalt makes it usable again. Certain kinds of asphalt from asphalt paving companies in Calgary are also porous enough that water can percolate through them to the soil below.

The Ease of Installation and Asphalt Repairs in Calgary

Asphalt is faster and easier to install than concrete, and it usually costs less. Preventative maintenance is a little more involved with asphalt, but this helps it last and look like new longer. Asphalt repairs in Calgary are usually easier than concrete repairs because only the top layer needs to be repaved.

There are a number of things to consider when choosing a paving material. The above information can help you decide whether asphalt or concrete is right for you but talk with asphalt paving companies in Calgary if you still have questions.

Economy Paving is your trusted Calgary paving project partner. Working with municipal, commercial and residential customers, we provide complete solutions for driveways & parking lots, roadways, infrastructure projects, and more. If you’re searching for reliable Calgary concrete contractors, call us at 403-278-7727 or email us at [email protected]

The foundation of a building is crucial to its integrity; without a proper foundation, the rest of the structure lacks necessary support. The same is true of a parking lot or any other permanent structure. But it goes back another step because an appropriate foundation requires proper excavation from a Calgary company. Excavation prepares the site for the foundation and structure that follow. Prepare for this important step in the following ways.

Inspect the Site for Calgary Paving

Preparation begins by inspecting the site with an asphalt paving company. They’ll assess the scope of the work, site access and working space, machinery needed for the job, and movement of materials.

Locate Utilities before Excavation

Determining the location of utilities is also important before excavation. Hitting buried gas, oil, or other utility lines causes big problems and delays, so be sure to find out if there are any lines on the site and identify them clearly.

Test the Soil with an Asphalt Paving Company

The density of the soil impacts how well it absorbs moisture and can carry a load. Testing the soil provides information on its suitability. If the ground is unsuitable for the desired construction or paving, soil improvements must take place before continuing the project.

Clear the Site for Excavation In Calgary

Trees, shrubs, and any existing structures must be removed from the site before excavation companies in Calgary can begin excavating. The cleared material should be removed from the site.

Survey the Site with Excavation Companies Calgary

Surveying transforms plans on paper into physical representations of the plans on the ground. This gives excavation companies in Calgary precise measurements showing where the construction will take place.

Whatever your next paving or building project may be, preparing for excavation gives you a strong beginning for a proper foundation and construction. Use these steps to get ready for excavation.

Asphalt is a durable material, but even great asphalt driveways are likely to develop cracks over time. Dealing with them promptly is the best way to maintain the integrity of your driveway. Here’s a look at why asphalt repairs are important.

Asphalt Crack Filling Calgary Helps Prevent Moisture Damage

When small cracks appear in the asphalt, they allow moisture to penetrate the surface. The water can then work its way down to the subgrade; if that water freezes, it will expand and create new cracks on the surface of the driveway. Water freezing in existing cracks also expands and makes the cracking worse. If daytime temperatures rise high enough to melt the ice, it may freeze again during the night and expand to do a little more damage. Repeated freeze/thaw cycles can cause significant damage to Calgary paving.

Asphalt Repairs Reduce Vegetation Growth

Dust and dirt can accumulate in small cracks in asphalt. When enough has collected, small weeds can grow in the cracks. Their roots push against the asphalt and make the crack bigger, allowing for further plant growth and asphalt damage that can quickly ruin Calgary paving.

An Asphalt Paving Company Helps You Avoid PotHoles

Allowing water to sink under the surface of an asphalt driveway often creates a soft spot. This weak spot can become a pothole without prompt asphalt repairs.

Protect Calgary Paving with Regular Crack Repair

As you can see, allowing small cracks to remain can quickly compromise an asphalt driveway. Asphalt crack filling Calgary helps maintain the surface and avoid the above problems. Keeping the material in excellent condition with prompt repairs by an asphalt paving company can save you money in the long run because it helps avoid bigger repairs and keeps the surface looking its best.

Your driveway is an investment; protect it with prompt asphalt crack filling Calgary.

Winter weather is on its way, bringing plenty of snow to the Calgary area. Although it’s beautiful when fresh, snow can quickly become a hassle, and removing it is one of the biggest chores of winter. Make the task a little easier with these tips and tricks for snow removal Calgary.

Put Stakes Around Calgary Paving

Marking your driveway, sidewalk, and other Calgary paving makes it easier to find after everything is covered in snow. This not only helps you but also improves the snow plow company know where to work.

Purchase a Good Shovel for Snow Removal Calgary

Investing in a good shovel makes the task of removing snow less tiring. A medium-sized aluminum or plastic blade is an excellent choice; it’s large enough to move snow efficiently but small enough to help avoid back and arm stiffness. S-shaped shovels are ideal for heavy snow removal.

Shovel Snow Often

Shovelling gets tiring and annoying during the winter, but it’s important to shovel Calgary paving frequently. Leaving snow, even a small amount, makes it more likely to stick or freeze and create an icy problem.

Consider Investing in a Snow Blower for Snow Removal

Snow blowers are a bigger investment than a good shovel, but if you live somewhere that gets a lot of snow, it’s probably a worthwhile investment. They make quick work of snow removal Calgary.

Hire Calgary Concrete Companies

Of course, the easiest way to get rid of snow is to hire someone to remove it for you. Calgary concrete companies offer professional snow and ice removal services that make it simple to keep streets, parking lots, and other areas clear of snow and ice.

Dealing with snow is a big part of winter in many areas of the world. Make your snow removal task a little easier and quicker with these tips and tricks.

A flawless driveway adds to the overall curb appeal of a home, but homeowners often underestimate the importance of properly maintaining their driveways. Here’s a look at why asphalt driveway sealing is important, and whether you should tackle this project yourself.

The Importance of Driveway Sealing Calgary

Calgary paving takes a beating, particularly during the winter when it goes through cycles of freezing and thawing. Sealers help strengthen the surface and repel oil, water, mould, salt, and more. Worn asphalt with cracks and blemishes not only looks unattractive, but it also wears faster and can be a safety hazard. Driveway sealing in Calgary increases the integrity of the driveway and makes it tougher and more resilient.

Steps of Asphalt Driveway Sealing

Applying a sealer isn’t particularly difficult, but it’s crucial to follow all the steps carefully for a good result. Always refer to the sealer instructions for more detail.

Inspect the surface and remove loose debris
Scrub away stains with soap and warm water or a de-greaser
Repair cracks and allow the filler to dry
Fill potholes
Find two or three sunny days for driveway sealing Calgary to set
Choose a sealant variety
Apply the sealer with specialized tools
Repeat the application

Should You Apply Sealer Yourself or Hire an Asphalt Paving Company Calgary?

If you’re a skilled DIYer, you can tackle sealing the driveway yourself. It’s not a difficult project on its own, but one that requires careful attention to detail and some specialized tools. However, a lack of preparation or a poor job applying the product can easily result in an improper seal. For many homeowners, it makes sense to hire an asphalt paving company in Calgary. It’s a small investment to know that your Calgary paving is properly protected.

Asphalt paving is a big project; it may not be the showiest project, but it’s necessary. Hiring the right paving company is a significant first step because poor workmanship can produce a substandard result. The asphalt could deteriorate in a year or two instead of lasting for up to 20 years. Here’s how to find an asphalt paving company you can trust.

Hire Established Asphalt Paving Companies in Calgary

Choose concrete companies Calgary with a good reputation. Ask for recommendations from people you know, and choose a company that has extensive experience in the industry. Make sure they have the proper insurance and licensing to perform Calgary paving.

Watch Out for Secret Methods from Concrete Companies Calgary

Some companies claim to have cutting-edge or secret methods for Calgary paving, but this is usually a bad sign. Look for a company that performs excellent work according to industry standards. You should also be wary of companies who offer you a discount because they are in your area with leftover asphalt.

Understanding Calgary Paving Standards

Make sure you understand what you’re getting from asphalt paving companies in Calgary. Do you need asphalt poured on top of an existing driveway or do you need the existing material torn out and replaced? The thickness of the pavement depends on the need for replacement. Choosing a company that cuts corners saves you money initially, but often costs more, later on, because the results don’t last and it requires a lot to correct unsatisfactory work.

Ask the Asphalt Paving Company Questions

Before deciding on an asphalt paving company, make sure to ask them about scheduling, the thickness of the asphalt, and pricing.

Make your next project the best it can be by choosing an asphalt paving company in Calgary that you can trust.

Paving is a great way to change the look, feel, and functionality of an area. Whether you want to add a patio, driveway, or parking lot, paving can give you a more suitable space for activities. Choosing the right material is an essential step in any paving project. Here’s a look at how to select the right Calgary paving materials for your next project.

Determine Your Calgary Paving Priorities

The choice of paving materials is important. The material you use sets the foundation for the space, and each type of material has a different cost, different look, and different durability. Take time to research the options and determine your priorities before choosing a material from asphalt paving companies in Calgary. Are you looking for something that will last a long time? Are you concerned about the appearance of Calgary paving? Do you want a material that requires little maintenance?

Learn About the Types of Paving Materials Offered by Concrete Contractors Calgary

Once you determine your priorities, you can learn about the different materials offered by asphalt paving companies Calgary. Each material has its own characteristics that make it better or worse for specific uses. Some common paving options include:

Asphalt
Gravel
Concrete
Slate

Selecting Paving Materials from Asphalt Paving Companies Calgary

Knowing your priorities and options makes it easy to narrow down the choices and settle on a paving material that’s ideal for your project. Concrete contractors Calgary can help you explore the options and find a good fit. Keep in mind that there’s no reason you need to stick with one option; you can mix and match paving materials to create a beautiful, unique look.

No matter what your project, concrete contractors Calgary can help you choose the paving material that’s right for the job.