How Much Is Asphalt Per Square Foot?
The cost of asphalt per square foot is essential for both commercial and residential paving projects. Whether you’re planning a driveway for your home or a parking lot for your business, this cost is typically divided into material and installation expenses. Asphalt material costs range from $0.75 to $2.00 per square foot, depending on factors such as quality and supplier. When factoring in installation, encompassing labor and equipment costs, the overall expense can vary from $3 to $7 per square foot.
At Estimate Florida Consulting, we understand the importance of precise budgeting. That’s why we provide detailed estimates for your projects, ensuring transparency and accuracy. These estimates consider the quality of materials, project complexity, and regional labor rates, helping you make informed decisions whether your asphalt project is residential or commercial.
What is the Cost Per Sq Ft for Asphalt?
Depth | Coverage per Ton | 600 Sq. Ft. Driveway Cost |
2 inches | 100 sq. ft. | $1,000 – $2,000 |
4 inches | 50 sq. ft. | $2,000 – $4,000 |
6 inches | 40 sq. ft. | $2,500 – $5,000 |
An average driveway of 600 square feet requires between 14 and 30 tons of asphalt, depending on the chosen depth and surface area.
Asphalt Driveway Cost Overview
When considering the installation of an asphalt driveway, the expenses can be categorized into three primary segments: excavation and grading (preparing the land), materials, and the actual paving. Let’s delve into where your expenditures are allocated.
Excavation and Grading Costs:
Prior to paving, the area must undergo leveling to ensure the new driveway is smooth and facilitates efficient drainage. Excavating trees and bushes may incur costs ranging from $1,800 to $6,120. Grading and leveling add an extra $6 to $12 per square foot to the overall expenses. If your driveway has a steeper incline, anticipate higher costs due to the additional efforts required to ensure the paved surface’s safety. For steep gradients, consult with a driveway professional to explore optimal options.
Material Costs:
The material expenses vary depending on the type of asphalt chosen. Recycled or reclaimed materials are slightly less expensive than standard asphalt but more costly than porous asphalt, which stands as the most economical option. Stamped or colored blacktop commands the highest price.
Paving Costs:
Labor costs range between $6 and $8 per square foot. For an average-sized driveway of 600 square feet, labor expenses are expected to fall between $3,600 and $4,800. If the project involves removing an existing driveway or significant leveling and grading, labor costs will escalate.
Costs of Various Asphalt Types
The expense associated with asphalt is influenced by the specific type of driveway you opt for. You can manage costs by choosing recycled materials, or invest a bit more to add a touch of individuality to your driveway, enhancing your home’s curb appeal.
Recycled or Reclaimed Asphalt Cost Per Square Foot:
A recycled asphalt driveway now incurs costs ranging from $7.50 to $10.50 per square foot, inclusive of installation. Opting for recycled asphalt proves to be an environmentally conscious and cost-effective choice compared to new asphalt. On average, the material costs for recycled asphalt range from $12 to $24 per ton or $0.25 to $0.90 per square foot, while labor expenses are between $6 and $8 per square foot. If you remove an existing driveway and your contractor utilizes reclaimed asphalt, expect to pay an additional $2 to $4 per square foot for labor. Despite this, potential savings on transport and loading costs could reach up to $1,620 on material expenses for an average-sized driveway.
Standard Asphalt Cost Per Square Foot:
The installation of a new, plain asphalt driveway now comes with a price tag ranging from $8.75 to $15.75 per square foot. This includes material costs between $7 and $9 per square foot and labor costs between $3 and $8 per square foot. Additionally, factor in the cost of the hardcore or gravel layer, amounting to an extra $0.75 to $1.50 per square foot.
Porous Asphalt Costs Per Square Foot:
Opting for porous asphalt translates to costs ranging from $4.50 to $12 per square foot. This product facilitates efficient water drainage, reducing runoff and potentially saving on leveling and grading expenses. Note that an additional layer of crushed stone beneath the blacktop is necessary to enhance drainage.
Stamped or Colored Asphalt Cost Per Square Foot:
For a stamped or colored asphalt driveway, the cost is now between $12.50 and $21.25 per square foot, covering installation. Material costs alone for this type range from $3 to $9 per square foot, while labor costs fall between $9 and $12 per square foot. The total cost for an average 600-foot driveway ranges from $7,500 to $12,750. Both of these driveway options provide a custom, upscale appearance that distinguishes them from conventional blacktop surfaces. Moreover, they contribute to heightened curb appeal, making them a valuable investment, particularly if you plan to sell your home in the future.
Heated Blacktop Cost Per Square Foot:
Materials for a heated blacktop driveway now command costs between $15 and $31.25 per square foot. This includes $8.75 to $16.25 per square foot for the asphalt driveway and $6.25 to $15 per square foot for the installed heating system beneath the asphalt. For a standard 600-foot driveway, the total cost of a heated driveway installation ranges from $9,750 to $20,625.
Asphalt Driveway Project Costs by Type
The expense of paving a driveway varies based on the intricacy of the project. The escalation in costs extends beyond labor, encompassing additional materials such as gravel or crushed stone for a more substantial base layer or a thicker application of asphalt for certain projects.
New Asphalt Driveway Cost:
Establishing a new asphalt driveway, without extensive leveling or grading, now entails costs ranging from $10.50 to $19.50 per square foot, inclusive of installation. This comprises $3 to $9 per square foot for materials and $7 to $9.75 per square foot for labor. Potential savings can be realized by incorporating reclaimed asphalt into the mix, thereby reducing material costs.
Porous Asphalt Cost:
Opting for porous asphalt results in a higher cost, ranging from $4.50 to $12 per square foot for materials. Additionally, an extra $0.75 to $1.50 per square foot is incurred for additional crushed stone, along with labor costs.
Replacement Asphalt Driveway Cost:
The expense of replacing an asphalt driveway to $12 to $22.50 per square foot. This covers $2 to $4 per square foot for the removal of the existing surface, $4 to $9 per square foot for materials, and $7 to $9.75 per square foot for labor.
Asphalt Overlay Cost:
For an asphalt overlay, also known as a top coat, the cost has risen to $4.50 to $10.50 per square foot. The reduced cost is attributed to the fewer materials and less labor required, as this process involves pouring a thinner layer of asphalt directly over the existing surface. However, it’s crucial to note that overlays may not be effective for driveways with extensive holes and spiderweb cracks.
Cost to Install Asphalt Over Concrete Driveway:
Overlaying asphalt onto a concrete driveway now incurs costs ranging from $4.50 to $10.50 per square foot, mirroring the cost of overlaying old asphalt. It’s essential to recognize that while this option is relatively budget-friendly, it lacks the long-term durability of a new concrete or asphalt driveway. Moreover, the expansion and contraction of concrete may lead to cracks in the asphalt top coat, necessitating regular inspection and patching.
Cracks are an inevitable occurrence in driveways, but a swift asphalt driveway repair can enhance your home’s curb appeal.
Get Asphalt Driveway Construction Cost Estimator
Asphalt paving costs $5 to $9 per square foot installed. Paving a new asphalt driveway costs $1,400 to $4,200 on average. The cost to pave a private asphalt road is $40 to $90 per linear foot. Asphalt parking lot paving costs $5 to $9 per square foot. An asphalt sidewalk costs $14 to $30 per linear foot.
Factors Impacting the Cost of an Asphalt Driveway
Various factors contribute to the overall cost of an asphalt driveway, and these considerations may not be within your direct control. When establishing your budget, take into account the following elements:
Location:
The geographical location of the area earmarked for paving plays a significant role in the total cost. For instance, a driveway situated on an incline incurs higher costs compared to one on a flat surface. Similarly, paving a larger area, especially if your garage is distant from the road, results in elevated costs. Additionally, your geographic location influences the price, with fuel costs and the local cost of living directly impacting asphalt driveway prices.
Maintenance:
A new driveway entails specific asphalt maintenance requirements that can contribute to your overall costs. To safeguard the driveway from cracking and environmental damage, asphalt sealing should be performed at least six months after installation. Anticipate spending $4.50 to $9.75 per square foot every three to five years for this essential service.
Driveway Size:
The standard driveway size is 750 square feet, so if your driveway exceeds this average, expect in costs. Many driveway contractors have a minimum fee, meaning that even if your driveway is smaller than the average, you might still pay the standard price.
New Asphalt Driveway Cost:
Asphalt Depth:
The thickness of asphalt driveways is a crucial factor influencing costs. A minimum thickness of 3 inches provides approximately 100 square feet of coverage per ton. However, for a more resilient and durable driveway, contractors may recommend depths of 5 or 7 inches, reducing coverage per ton and subsequently increasing material expenses.
Type of Finish:
The finish you choose significantly impacts costs. Plain asphalt is more cost-effective compared to finishes like stamped or dyed options. If you reside in a cold climate and desire a heated driveway, this choice substantially elevates the installation cost.
Keep in mind these additional factors as you plan for your asphalt driveway project, and account for them in your budget to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the overall expenses involved.
Type of Finish | Cost (Per Sq. Ft) |
Standard Asphalt | $10.50 – $19.50 |
Stamped or Colored Asphalt | $15 – $25.50 |
Heated Asphalt | $18 – $31.25 |
Foundation Type and Condition
When the driveway and its foundation remain relatively stable, cost savings can be achieved by opting for a top coat addition instead of a complete driveway surface replacement. However, if your driveway exceeds 20 years in age or the foundation is irreparable, anticipate incurring higher costs than those associated with a standard installation. The expense is attributed to the substantial labor required for excavating the old driveway and foundation to facilitate the addition of a new one.
FAQs for Asphalt Driveway Cost:
The cost of asphalt per square foot is determined by both material and installation expenses. Asphalt material costs range from $0.75 to $2.00 per square foot, while the overall expense, including labor and equipment, can vary from $3 to $7 per square foot.
The asphalt price ranges from $200 to $400 per ton. Depending on the driveway’s depth, one ton can cover between 30 to 80 square feet. For example, a 600 sq. ft. driveway with 2 inches depth can cost between $1,000 and $2,000.
The costs of an asphalt driveway are categorized into excavation and grading, material costs, and paving. Excavation and grading costs range from $1,800 to $6,120, material costs vary based on asphalt type, and labor costs range from $6 to $8 per square foot.
- Recycled or Reclaimed Asphalt: $7.50 to $10.50 per sq. ft.
- Standard Asphalt: $8.75 to $15.75 per sq. ft.
- Porous Asphalt: $4.50 to $12 per sq. ft.
- Stamped or Colored Asphalt: $12.50 to $21.25 per sq. ft.
- Heated Blacktop: $15 to $31.25 per sq. ft.
- New Asphalt Driveway: $10.50 to $19.50 per sq. ft.
- Porous Asphalt: $4.50 to $12 per sq. ft.
- Replacement Asphalt Driveway: $12 to $22.50 per sq. ft.
- Asphalt Overlay: $4.50 to $10.50 per sq. ft.
- Cost to Install Asphalt Over Concrete: $4.50 to $10.50 per sq. ft.
Various factors include location, maintenance, driveway size, asphalt depth, and the type of finish. These factors can influence costs due to geographic location, maintenance requirements, driveway size, asphalt thickness, and the chosen finish.
The type of finish significantly impacts costs. Standard asphalt costs $10.50 to $19.50 per sq. ft., stamped or colored asphalt costs $15 to $25.50 per sq. ft., and heated asphalt costs $18 to $31.25 per sq. ft.
If the driveway and its foundation are stable, cost savings can be achieved with a top coat addition. However, for driveways exceeding 20 years or with irreparable foundations, higher costs are incurred due to the labor-intensive process of excavating and replacing the old driveway and foundation.
Conclusion
Understanding the cost factors associated with asphalt projects is crucial for effective budgeting. The per-square-foot price of asphalt varies based on factors such as material type, installation depth, and additional finishes. Whether opting for recycled, standard, porous, or specialty asphalt like stamped or heated, each choice comes with its unique expenses. Considerations like driveway size, location, and maintenance requirements further impact overall costs. By factoring in these elements and obtaining detailed estimates, homeowners and businesses can make informed decisions. At Estimate Florida Consulting, we prioritize transparency, providing comprehensive estimates to ensure the success of both residential and commercial asphalt projects.
Process To Get Asphalt Cost Estimate Report
Here I am going to share some steps to get a asphalt cost estimate report.
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