If you have a gravel driveway on your property, you may feel that it is time to have an asphalt one installed. While you may believe all that is necessary to have the job done is to lay down a layer of asphalt, there are a couple of things that are part of the process of making sure that your new driveway lasts as long as possible.

1.  Underlayment Beneath the Pavement Is Important for the Driveway's Durability

One thing that can help increase the chances that your driveway will last longer is the condition of the underlayment. Before a contractor starts laying the asphalt, the driveway will need a sound, sturdy base on which to rest.

If the underlayment is not properly prepared before the laying of the asphalt, the ground underneath will be more likely to erode and deteriorate quickly. If this happens, cracks and potholes will eventually start to form.

However, if the ground is leveled first and allowed to settle before a fine layer of gravel is laid, the base for the asphalt will be more sound. The surface of the asphalt will be less likely to crack and crumble. Also, the asphalt will be able to better withstand the weight of vehicles driving and resting upon it.

2.  Quality of the Asphalt Affects the Longevity and Appearance of the Driveway

Another thing that you should know about the process involved when paving an asphalt driveway is that the quality of the material does matter. While you may believe that going with a cheaper grade of asphalt will save you money, it may wind up costing you more in the long run.

If you go with a cheaper grade of asphalt when setting up the paving job, it will affect both the longevity and appearance of the driveway. Unlike higher quality materials, cheap asphalt tends to be dull in color and does not have the rich black hues that higher grade asphalt offers.

Also, since the quality is lower, cheaper asphalt will be more likely to crack and crumble even if the underlayment is sturdy. You would end up having to have the driveway patched or repaved earlier than if you were to use a higher grade of asphalt.

When you have a new asphalt driveway installed, there is more to the process than simply laying down the material. The sturdiness of the underlayment and the asphalt's quality also factor into the driveway's longevity. For more information about what needs to be done to help ensure a long-lasting driveway, contact a paving contractor near you.