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A properly installed asphalt driveway or parking lot should last 20-30 years with routine maintenance. The key factors are base preparation, asphalt mix quality, drainage, and maintenance schedule. Surfaces that are sealcoated every 3-5 years and crack-filled as needed consistently outlast those that are ignored after install. Michigan's freeze-thaw cycles are hard on pavement — good drainage design is what makes the difference between a surface that lasts 15 years and one that lasts 30.

Asphalt paving season in Michigan runs from late April through October, with the best conditions in May through September. Hot-mix asphalt needs ambient temperatures above 50°F for proper placement and compaction. We do not pave in temperatures below 40°F or when rain is imminent — cold temperatures cause the mix to cool too quickly, and water on the subgrade compromises base compaction. If you're planning a large project, spring booking is recommended since our schedule fills up quickly once the season starts.

It depends on the condition of the base and the extent of surface damage. As a general rule: if less than 25-30% of the surface is failing, targeted repairs plus sealcoating is usually the right answer. If the base has failed in multiple areas, or if the surface is extensively cracked with alligator cracking across large sections, full replacement becomes more cost-effective than ongoing repairs. During our site visit, we'll give you an honest assessment — including cases where patching makes more sense than replacement. We don't push for more work than a surface actually needs.

Foot traffic: 24 hours. Vehicle traffic: 48-72 hours minimum for residential. For commercial lots with heavy traffic, we recommend 72 hours before opening. New asphalt continues to harden and cure for 6-12 months — during the first summer, it will be soft in direct sun and high heat. Avoid parking in the same spot for extended periods during the first season, and keep vehicle jacks off the surface. By the second season, the asphalt will be fully cured and at full hardness.

For residential projects, we require a deposit at contract signing (typically 30%) with the balance due upon project completion. For larger commercial projects, we structure payment schedules based on project milestones. We do not offer in-house financing, but many homeowners use home equity lines of credit or personal loans for larger driveway projects. For commercial clients, net-30 terms are available on accounts with established credit. Contact Ray to discuss what works for your project.