
Asphalt Paving & Sealcoating FAQs
Answers to the most common questions about asphalt paving, sealcoating, maintenance, and more in Central Ohio.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find helpful answers about asphalt driveway costs, sealcoating, installation, repairs, overlays, and parking lot maintenance.
Pricing
How much does it cost to replace an asphalt driveway?
The cost depends on driveway size, asphalt thickness, drainage, access, demolition, and base preparation. A site visit is the best way to produce an accurate estimate for a complete driveway replacement.
Learn more about driveway replacement services.
What is the average sealcoating price per square foot?
Sealcoating prices vary with surface condition, preparation, crack repair, access, and total square footage. Larger areas often have a lower per-square-foot cost than small driveways.
Learn more about residential sealcoating and commercial sealcoating.
Is an asphalt overlay cheaper than full replacement?
An overlay is usually less expensive when the existing pavement base remains stable. If the asphalt has widespread base failure, drainage problems, or severe cracking, full replacement may provide better long-term value.
Learn more about asphalt resurfacing.
Sealcoating
How often should asphalt be sealcoated?
Most residential driveways benefit from sealcoating about every two to three years. Traffic, sunlight, weather exposure, and pavement condition can shorten or extend that interval.
Learn more about residential sealcoating.
When is the best time to sealcoat a driveway?
Late spring through early fall is typically best in Central Ohio. Sealcoating needs warm pavement, dry conditions, and enough curing time before rain or vehicle traffic.
Learn more about driveway sealcoating.
Does sealcoating fill cracks?
No. Sealcoating protects the pavement surface but is not a substitute for crack repair. Appropriate cracks should be cleaned and filled before the sealer is applied.
Learn more about driveway crack repair.
How long does driveway sealer take to dry?
Most sealed driveways need approximately 24 to 48 hours before vehicle traffic. Temperature, humidity, shade, and product application can affect the final curing time.
Learn more about sealcoating services.
How often should a parking lot be sealcoated?
Many commercial parking lots are sealcoated every two to three years. High traffic, snow removal, vehicle fluids, and sun exposure may require a more frequent maintenance schedule.
Learn more about commercial parking lot sealcoating.
Installation and Repair
Can asphalt be installed over gravel?
Yes, when the gravel base is properly graded, compacted, stable, and designed for drainage. Soft areas or an inadequate base must be corrected before asphalt installation.
Learn more about driveway asphalt installation.
How long before you can drive on new asphalt?
Light vehicle traffic is commonly allowed after 24 to 72 hours, depending on weather and project conditions. New asphalt continues hardening after that, so sharp turns and heavy stationary loads should be avoided initially.
Learn more about residential paving and parking lot paving.
Should I repair or replace my asphalt driveway?
Localized cracks, potholes, or isolated damage can often be repaired. Replacement is usually more appropriate when deterioration is widespread, the base has failed, or drainage problems affect most of the driveway.
Learn more about asphalt repairs and complete resurfacing.
What is the difference between an asphalt overlay and replacement?
An overlay adds a new asphalt layer over a prepared existing surface. Replacement removes the failed pavement and rebuilds the affected base before installing new asphalt.
Learn more about resurfacing and replacement.
