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Updated on March 8, 2025
What are the pros and cons of asphalt?
PROS:
  • It costs less to construct and maintain asphalt than alternative pavements.
  • Asphalt construction projects can be completed more quickly than alternative pavements.
  • Asphalt pavements are the smoothest pavements.
  • Properly designed, constructed and maintained asphalt pavements last significantly longer than alternative pavements.
  • Asphalt is recyclable.
CONS:
  • The surface is known to crack or heave due to subsoil movement.
What are the pros and cons of interlocking?
PROS:
  • Interlocking is a rigid surface that remains flexible and allows disbursement of heavy loads.
  • It provides the strength of poured concrete without the problem of cracking.
  • It has many design options.
  • It is aesthetically appealing.
CONS:
  • It is a more costly option.
  • Weed and moss maintenance are required.
  • There is shifting due to subsoil movement.
What are the pros and cons of concrete?
PROS:
  • It has a very strong surface and it is very durable.
  • It has many design options.
  • It is aesthetically appealing.
CONS:
  • It is a more costly option.
  • There can be cracking due to subsoil movement.
  • It is difficult to repair.
Can subsoil movement be prevented?
No. Given our Canadian climate, this is difficult. The regular and periodic freezing and thawing contribute to major movement in the base and therefore affecting what is on the top. However, ensuring a good granular base will help.
What kind of asphalt should I be using?
There are 3 main types of asphalt: HL8, HL3 and HL3A. HL8 is mostly used for commercial work. However, there are many homeowners who choose this as a base when installing a two layer driveway. It is a very coarse mix, but it provides a great foundation for a long lasting driveway. HL3 is a top layer asphalt mix and is often used on city roads and long country driveways. This mix is coarse and gravel stones are predominant. HL3A is a much smoother mix and that’s why most homeowners will choose it over HL3 as it is more aesthetically appealing.
What is this going to cost?
This is difficult to answer without seeing the project. Asphalt is the most economical choice. Interlock or concrete are the pricier option. Access Paving & Interlock strives to be competitive, while providing quality service and installation. We know everyone is cost conscience. However, many times choosing the contractor with the lowest price may result in getting poor quality and service leading to problems that eliminate any cost savings.
How important is the base under the asphalt?
The base is the most important part of the job. It should consist of 6″ to 12″ of compacted granular materials depending on the load requirements.
How thick should the asphalt be?
For a residential driveway, 2″ of compacted asphalt is adequate. For commercial, it will vary depending on the use and load requirements.
Should I repair cracks in my asphalt right away?
Failure to repair cracks as soon as possible will lead to pot holes, crack expansion and ultimately underlying base failure.
Should I seal my interlock?

Sealing interlock is not always recommended. Each and every interlocking product has its own manufacturer’s recommendation.  If the product is able to be sealed without voiding the manufacturer’s warranty, it should not be done for at least two years so as to allow the efflorescence to escape

When can we drive on our new driveway?
Usually in a day or two unless it is really hot. If you can avoid turning the wheels of your vehicles when it is not moving that will help prevent scuffing. For asphalt resurfacing, depending upon the temperature of the day, one should allow 2 to 6 hours before using the new lot.
What can I do to prevent pavement failures?
Periodic and preventative maintenance is the key. Budget money for crack filling on a yearly basis. Typically a few hundred dollars a year in crack filling will save you thousands in patching when resurfacing is required.
Why are there scuff marks on new asphalt surfaces?
Scuffing of newly sealed or paved surfaces are inevitable as it is the nature of asphalt material combined with hot weather. After about a month those scuff marks are rarely noticeable. The scuffs are just the sand being displaced and will wash away. Asphalt requires about 6 months to fully cure. Until that time it is tender and best to be a little careful. Avoid tight turns, and turning the steering wheel when the vehicle is not moving. Avoid sudden stops if you can.
What are some of the causes of asphalt failure?
Inadequate thickness of the pavement section to support the loads that travel across the asphalt, lack of maintenance, and weak or unstable subgrade components.
Why doesn’t asphalt stay that nice rich black colour?
The UV rays from the sun breakdown the carbon bonds in the asphalt oil thus causing the colour to change from black to gray. It is this oil that binds everything in the asphalt together so when it is depleted erosion starts. This oil is also what keeps the asphalt flexible. So when the asphalt is gray and oxidized it is less flexible and more prone to cracking.
Should I seal my driveway?
Sealer will help repel harmful elements, maintain the integrity of the asphalt and prolong the life of your driveway. Sealer should not be applied in the first 45 days.
How long after my house has been built should I get my driveway paved?
Depending on the soil conditions and how much excavation work has been done around your home, you should wait one to two years before you pave your driveway.