Asphalt paving costs $3 to $7 per square foot for a driveway or parking lot. An average asphalt driveway costs $1,200 to $6,000 installed. The average cost to pave a private one-lane asphalt road is $35 to $85 per linear foot.

A tar and chip driveway costs $2 to $5 per square foot and features crushed stone spread over liquid asphalt.

An asphalt driveway is cheaper than concrete, at $3 to $7 per square foot. In comparison, concrete driveway contractors charge $4 to $8 per square foot for installation. Concrete is more expensive than asphalt because of the price of its cement binder materials.

Asphalt paving lasts 15 to 30 years, depending on the climate, maintenance, traffic, asphalt grade, foundation and installation quality, drainage, and soil type. Asphalt deteriorates fastest when water freezes and thaws inside the pavement's cracks.

Installing a paved driveway adds value and curb appeal to a home. Paving a driveway has an average 50% to 75% return on investment.

Paving companies recommend replacement when the asphalt is beyond repair, or the cost of repairs exceeds the cost of new asphalt installation.

Replace asphalt driveways when:

• The driveway is more than 15 to 20 years old.
• More than 30% of the surface needs repairs.
• Cracks are more than 0.25" wide and 2" deep.
• The asphalt is crumbling and is impossible to patch.
• The asphalt foundation is settling or swelling, causing depressions, potholes, and upheaval.
• Existing patches are starting to fail.

Start by searching our list of paving contractors near you. After researching and contacting pros:

• Compare at least three estimates from paving companies.
• Ask for recommendations from family, friends, and neighbors.
• Select pavers that are licensed, bonded, and experienced.
• Beware of companies that pave by hand instead of with paving machines.
• Discuss your sub-base foundation options. Make sure the company compacts a 4-inch base with a vibratory roller before paving.
• Avoid companies offering discounts by selling old, leftover asphalt.
• Verify their insurance, worker's compensation, and bond guarantees.
• Look at their reviews on HomeGuide and Google.
• Choose a certified company affiliated with the state’s Department of Transportation asphalt training programs, the National Center for Asphalt Technology (NCAT), or similar road-construction education programs.
• Ask about their warranties and guarantees.
• Ask for a written contract, warranty, and detailed estimate.
• Don't pay in full before the work begins. Come up with a payment schedule for work completed.

After asking questions and verifying their credentials, hire the most affordable and best asphalt companies near you.

When looking for the best asphalt companies, ask the following questions:

• How long have you been paving?
• Can I see photos of your past work?
• Can you provide me with references or customer referrals?
• What do your residential paving services include?
• Does this paving quote include all materials and labor fees? What additional costs can I expect?
• How will you handle the cleanup, and does it cost extra?
• Can I see your company’s business license, insurance, and bond guarantees?
• Are the workers your employees or subcontractors?
• Does your work include sealant?
• Can you provide a construction schedule for removing debris, grading, spreading a base, paving the asphalt, and compacting?
• How many workers will come, and who supervises the crew?
• Do you mark the underground utilities before construction starts?
• Will the contractors protect my surrounding landscaping?
• What kind of asphalt do you use, and how long should it last?
• How much space is needed for paving equipment and large trucks?
• How do you handle unexpected project delays?
• What permits do I need, and will you obtain them?
• What does your warranty include?
• What payment methods do you accept?
• What can you start and finish the paving?
• What do I need to provide to get started?