If you live in Minnesota, your driveway probably absorbs more punishment than any other part of your home. Not only does it have to support the vehicles you leave in it all day long, but it also gets scraped by shovels and plows in the winter and has to deal with the state’s freeze-thaw cycles in late fall and spring.
Because of the challenges of laying surfaces in Minnesota, asphalt (also called blacktop) has become a popular solution. It offers unique properties that make it a more appealing option. That said, the material isn’t perfect and requires proper care and maintenance to maintain your investment.
If you have an asphalt driveway or want one, Metro Paving is here to help. We install and repair them for homeowners in Minneapolis and across Minnesota.
Why asphalt driveways are great for Minnesota winters
Asphalt driveways are a great option for Minnesota winters for various reasons. The main benefit of asphalt is its material properties. It has a bit of “give”, which means it can move slightly without cracking as the ground around it freezes. Its dark surface also absorbs sunlight, so ice and snow tend to melt faster on it compared to lighter paving solutions.
Here are some other reasons why homeowners choose asphalt for their driveways in Minnesota:
Low cost
Generally speaking, asphalt is a cheaper paving solution compared to concrete or paving slabs.
Speed
Asphalt paving is quick to install. It doesn’t require the week-long cure process that concrete does.
Salt tolerance
Most asphalt formulations can tolerate deicing salt better than concrete, which tends to pit and spall.
Repairability
Asphalt driveways tend to be easier to repair than concrete alternatives. At Metro Paving, we can patch potholes and seal worn surfaces without having to tear up the whole driveway and start again.
With proper care and maintenance, most Minnesota asphalt driveways can last 20 years or more. All they require is the right installation and basic maintenance from a company like Metro Paving that understands them.
New asphalt driveway installation
New asphalt driveway installation is ideal if you’re looking for a solution to last several decades. Our process begins by excavating the driveway to the correct depth and then grading it via compaction so water runs away efficiently rather than pooling. We then install the crushed aggregate base, ensure the right slope, and use that as a foundation to lay asphalt on top.
This meticulous approach to construction reduces the risk the driveway will crack or split significantly over the years. The most common cause of cracks in asphalt driveways is poor insulation.
Our team works with you to specify the type of driveway you need. We can deliver a full driveway rebuild or simply widen or expand an existing one.
Driveway repair in Minneapolis
Metro Paving offers various driveway repair solutions to homeowners in Minneapolis. Our team always gives you a short list of the most economical options given your situation.
Reclaim and repave
Reclaim and repave is one of our most popular approaches. It involves pulverizing the existing asphalt surface and then using that as a base for a fresh application of asphalt. It’s cost-effective and more environmentally friendly because it uses less virgin material.
Asphalt driveway overlay
Asphalt driveway overlay is another popular option. This applies a new layer of asphalt to the existing surface, restoring its look, but it only works if the base is still in good condition.
Crack sealing and patching
Crack sealing and patching is one of the most affordable options for Minneapolis homeowners. This technique reduces the risk of hairline cracks expanding further or potholes growing.
If you don’t know which repair option is best for you, speak with our team. We can provide you with a free estimate for each and tell you which is the most economical for your driveway.
Concrete options for your property
Metro Paving also installs various concrete options for your property, including driveways, patios, sidewalks, and stamped concrete. Concrete offers extra durability, which can make it a great material for high-friction surfaces like parts of your driveway where vehicles turn.
Choosing blacktop driveway contractors
Metro Paving is a licensed professional Twin Cities asphalt and blacktop paving contractor. We work to determine the optimal depth, compaction, and drainage system for your new driveway or outdoor installation. Customers love our clear communication and our ability to deliver projects on time.
Get your free estimate today
Getting your free estimate from Metro Paving is easy. For a new overlay or driveway repair call (763) 428-4121.