Find Top Asphalt Driveway Contractors Near You

There are plenty of benefits to using asphalt for your driveways. Compared to concrete, asphalt’s most significant advantage is its cost-effectiveness, fast installation and flexibility. It’s also easier to repair than concrete driveways.

• Cost-effective. An asphalt driveway is about 40% less expensive than a concrete driveway. If you also hire asphalt driveway contractors, you will still be charged less because it is less labour-intensive.
• Fast installation. Laying an asphalt driveway will only take about one to 2 days. Also, unlike concrete driveways, you don’t need to wait for a week to finally be able to use it. As soon as it’s laid, you can immediately drive on it.
• Flexible. Shaping asphalt into curves and corners is easy. This way, forming tight seals and reducing gaps to prevent debris and water penetration is also easier. It’s also weather-resistant that it expands and shrinks depending on extreme weather conditions.
• Easier to repair. Applying a new topcoat of asphalt to heavily marred or older surfaces are more manageable than concrete.

Asphalting a driveway in Australia involves various factors that can influence the overall cost, including the driveway's size, the asphalt mix type, and the preparatory work required. For a standard residential driveway, prices can range from AUD $2,000 to $10,000 or more. The wider price range accommodates small to large driveways and factors in different grades of asphalt, as well as the cost of labour and any additional features like drainage or custom edging. To ensure accurate budgeting, it’s advisable to request detailed quotes from several asphalt contractors, who can provide a more precise cost estimate based on the specific details of your project.

Residential asphalt driveways cost around an average of $25 to $45 per square meter. The cost will depend on the factors listed below:

• Size of the project. A shorter driveway will cost less than a longer one. Here, the amount of asphalt needed will be put into consideration. A shorter driveway will, of course, need less asphalt than longer ones.
• Project location. The cost will depend on what state you are in and how far you are from the asphalt production facility. Below are the average prices of installing asphalt driveways per state.
  • $25 per square metre for Western Australia
  • $30 per square metre for South Australia
  • $30 - $40 per square metre for Northern Territory
  • $40 per square metre for Queensland
  • $45 per square metre for New South Wales
• Type of asphalt material. There are three types of asphalt, and finding the right mix will depend on the location and the type of driveway your project requires.
  • Warm Mix Asphalt Concrete - used for low traffic areas or patching old surfaces.
  • Hot Mix Asphalt Concrete - the most durable asphalt material suitable for high traffic areas.
  • Mastic Asphalt - commonly used for sidewalks, residential roads, driveways and roofing.

For more information on costs, read out asphalting cost guide.

The durability of an asphalt driveway typically spans between 15 to 30 years, influenced by factors such as installation quality, maintenance frequency, climate conditions, and traffic volume. Proper installation by experienced professionals is crucial to maximise its lifespan, alongside regular maintenance such as seal coating and crack filling.

Environmental conditions, like extreme temperature fluctuations and heavy rainfall, can also affect the longevity of an asphalt driveway. With appropriate care, including prompt repairs of minor damages and periodic resurfacing, the life expectancy of an asphalt driveway can be extended towards the upper end of its potential lifespan.

With iseekplant’s nationwide network of asphalt driveway suppliers, you can easily find one in an Australian capital city near you from Brisbane to Sydney, Canberra, Melbourne to Darwin, Perth and Adelaide. You can also get asphalt driveway quotes in all major towns and cities from the Sunshine Coast down to the Gold Coast, Newcastle, Bendigo, Geelong and Hobart.

Use iseekplant’s get a quote tool to easily book an asphalt driveway company for your driveway project. Request a quote with our team by reaching out on 1300 691 912 or emailing projects@iseekplant.com.au.

When considering driveway materials, both initial costs and long-term maintenance should be evaluated. Asphalt installation is generally more affordable than concrete, with costs for asphalt ranging approximately from AUD $45 to AUD $65 per square metre, whereas concrete can start from AUD $75 per square metre upwards.

However, the total cost can vary depending on the project size, geographic location and complexity of the installation. While concrete may have higher upfront costs, it's worth noting that asphalt may require more frequent maintenance over its lifespan, potentially balancing out the initial savings. Therefore, when comparing the two, consider not only the initial installation cost but also the long-term maintenance expenses.

Calculating the cost of an asphalt driveway involves several factors, including the area to be covered, the thickness of the asphalt layer, the type of asphalt mix used, and any preparatory work required before laying the asphalt. Here’s a step-by-step approach:

1. Measure the Driveway Area: Determine the length and width of the driveway to calculate the total square metres (length x width).
2. Consider the Thickness: Asphalt driveways typically require a thickness of at least 50mm. The amount of asphalt needed will impact the cost.
3. Choose the Type of Asphalt: The cost can vary depending on the type of asphalt mix chosen. Recycled asphalt can be cheaper, whereas premium mixes may offer longer durability but at a higher price.
4. Preparatory Work: Assess the need for base material or grading to ensure proper drainage and stability. This groundwork is crucial and can significantly affect the overall cost.
5. Get Quotes: Contact multiple contractors for quotes. Provide them with the specifics of your project to get accurate pricing.
6. Factor in Additional Costs: Consider the costs of any additional features like edging, drainage solutions, or special finishes, as these will add to the total cost.

Remember, opting for the cheapest option may not always be the best in the long term. Consider the quality of materials, workmanship and the contractor’s reputation to ensure a durable and aesthetically pleasing driveway.

The choice between bitumen and asphalt for driveways depends on several considerations, including budget, usage, and aesthetic preferences. Bitumen, often less expensive than asphalt, may be suitable for areas with lighter traffic or where cost is a significant concern. However, asphalt typically offers a more durable surface, capable of withstanding heavier traffic and varying weather conditions, making it a popular choice for residential driveways. Asphalt also provides a smoother finish, which can enhance the aesthetic appeal of the driveway.

Ultimately, the decision should be based on the specific needs of the project, including long-term maintenance expectations and the initial investment. Consulting with a professional contractor can help determine the most appropriate material for your driveway project.

Asphalt's waterproofing properties are primarily due to bitumen, a viscous organic substance that is highly resistant to water penetration. Bitumen, the binding agent in asphalt, coats the aggregate particles and fills the gaps between them, creating a dense and impermeable layer. This characteristic makes asphalt an excellent choice for surfaces that require protection against water, such as roads, driveways, and certain types of roofing.

The waterproof nature of asphalt ensures that the underlying materials are shielded from water damage, which can lead to a longer lifespan and reduced maintenance costs for structures protected by asphalt surfaces. Additionally, asphalt's ability to be compacted into a solid, water-resistant surface is why it's preferred for many outdoor construction projects.