Can You Lay Asphalt Over Concrete?
Can You Lay Asphalt Over Concrete?
Blog Article
Asphalt is a popular choice for driveways and pavements thanks to its affordability, quick installation, and ease of maintenance. It also offers a smoother and quieter drive compared to concrete, making it ideal for both homes and businesses. But one common question arises—can asphalt be laid directly over concrete?
The short answer is yes, it can be done—but it’s usually not recommended. Let’s explore why this approach often leads to long-term issues and how HippoSeal ensures high-quality, lasting asphalt installations.
Why Asphalt Over Concrete Isn’t Ideal
1. Poor Sub-Base Preparation in Concrete
Concrete is typically installed with minimal attention to the sub-base because of its rigid structure. However, asphalt is more flexible and requires a well-compacted, stable base to perform well. If the base under the concrete is weak or uneven, the asphalt on top may develop cracks, dips, or shifting over time.
2. Concrete Movement Causes Asphalt Damage
Concrete surfaces include expansion joints to accommodate movement caused by temperature changes. When asphalt is placed directly over these joints without proper mitigation, it often cracks along the same lines. Any existing weaknesses or surface damage in the concrete will also transfer to the new asphalt layer, compromising its strength and longevity.
How HippoSeal Delivers Long-Lasting Asphalt Installations
At HippoSeal, we don’t take shortcuts. Instead of paving over concrete, we follow a proven process to deliver a durable, long-lasting asphalt surface.
Step 1: Complete Concrete Removal
We start by safely removing the old concrete using professional-grade tools and techniques. Our team ensures minimal disruption to the surrounding area while creating a clean slate for new asphalt installation.
Step 2: Sub-Base Preparation
Next, we focus on building a strong, well-compacted sub-base—the foundation of a long-lasting asphalt surface. Proper grading and leveling help prevent future issues like cracking, uneven wear, and poor drainage.
Step 3: Precision Asphalt Installation
With the base ready, we apply fresh asphalt using high-quality materials and industry-best practices. Our experienced team ensures proper compaction and grading, resulting in a smooth, durable surface that holds up under daily use and weather changes.
Step 4: Regular Maintenance for Longevity
A new asphalt surface requires regular care. That’s why HippoSeal offers asphalt sealcoating services in Dalton and nearby areas. From crack sealing and resealing to routine inspections, we help extend your pavement’s lifespan and keep it looking its best.
Conclusion: Do It Right the First Time
While laying asphalt over concrete might seem quicker and cheaper upfront, it often leads to costly problems later. The real answer to “Can asphalt be laid over concrete?” is: yes, but it’s rarely worth the risk.
At HippoSeal, we believe in building it right from the ground up. By removing the concrete and preparing a solid base before installing asphalt, we deliver results that last. Our team combines expert craftsmanship with ongoing maintenance services to ensure your new driveway or pavement looks great and performs reliably for years.
Ready to replace that old concrete with smooth, long-lasting asphalt?
Contact HippoSeal today for expert installation and sealcoating services you can trust.