Asphalt Driveways in Montgomery, AL

Asphalt driveways in central Alabama fail in predictable ways: ruts where the tires track in July, cracks that open after a wet spring, and edges that crumble into the lawn. Each one traces back to the same few causes, a thin layer of asphalt, a weak base or clay that took on water. A new driveway that will last is planned around those causes before any asphalt is ordered.

When replacement beats repair

• Alligator cracking across large areas
• Ruts and low spots that hold water
• Potholes that keep reopening
• Edges breaking away along the yard
• A surface that is more patch than original

If only a few spots are failing, repair and sealing make more sense. We will tell you which side your driveway is on.

Groundwork on clay

After the old surface comes up, we check the subgrade. Wet, soft or organic soil is dug out. In Black Belt clays, which swell when wet and shrink when dry, a deeper stone base spreads the load and bridges small movements. The stone goes down in layers, each compacted, and the finished grade sheds water to the street, a ditch or the yard.

Thickness for heat

Asphalt softens in the sun, and Montgomery averages 86 days a year above 90 degrees. A thin surface ruts under daily traffic in that heat. Cost guides describe a typical residential driveway as 2 to 3 inches of compacted asphalt over 6 to 8 inches of compacted gravel, with more for trucks, trailers and RVs. Your quote states both numbers.

Long drives and gravel conversions

Outside the city, many homes have long gravel drives. Gravel that is sound can be regraded and used as part of the new base. We shape a crown or cross slope so rain runs off the sides, support the edges and pave. Long drives can be done in phases, nearest the house first.

Finishing touches

At the garage, the asphalt is tapered to meet the slab without a lip. At the street, we tie into the existing apron or road edge cleanly. Where a drive meets a city street or a state highway and the work reaches the right-of-way, we check the city or ALDOT requirements first.

Living with it the first year

Keep cars off for a few days and heavy vehicles off longer. In summer, avoid turning the wheel in place and use a board under jack stands and kickstands. Seal it 3 to 6 months after paving, once it has cured.