How Should The Edges Be Finished On An Asphalt Driveway?
Comparing Edges
To understand how asphalt edges are formed in an asphalt driveway; lets first compare them to the edges of a concrete driveway. A concrete driveway has nice straight formed edges. When a concrete driveway is being installed forms are used to contain the concrete so once the concrete is dry, it creates that straight edge.
With asphalt edges, it’s much different. Since the asphalt is installed using a paving machine, there are no forms used, therefore they tend to have a rough edge and sometimes may even have a slight angled edge to them. As the driveway is being rolled and compacted, these edges can then be compacted with the rakes to make them more durable. It’s not a straight edge or a perfect edge, but compacting them will make them look better and increase the durability.
A Recipe For Strong, Durable Edges
During the grading process, a row of material should be left along the edge of both sides of the driveway so once the asphalt is finished the crew can pull the material over those asphalt edges. This gives the driveway the appearance it’s sitting down into the soil rather than simply just being laid on top.
Structurally it’s even more important. If the edges of an asphalt driveway are not filled in to the same height as the asphalt, they become susceptible to cracking and breaking off. Soil or any other type of material can help transition from the edge of the asphalt, helping to keep the asphalt from cracking and eventually breaking off. If a vehicle drives off of the edge, the asphalt can crack and break off or even leave a tire imprint. This is especially true and can become a much bigger problem if your driveway is elevated. Eventually the cracked edges can break completely away, which unfortunately, is not repairable. Trying to patch these areas is only a short term solution. Newer asphalt will not bind properly to the older asphalt and with nothing to hold that patch into place, these cracks or broken pieces and will continue to crack and break away each time they are repaired.
Asphalt Edge Materials
Ask your contractor to leave the edges uncovered and then finish them yourself with a nice landscape material. In this case, it’s best to use a hard material like landscape rock or crushed stone. Using something that’s hard that can transition from the edge of the asphalt, will make them stronger if you drive off of an edge with your vehicle. If you decide to dress the edges yourself make sure to have the material delivered prior to the installation of your driveway so the dump truck doesn’t drive on your new asphalt. Also, it’s best to stay away from any soft materials like wood chips or potting soil or any other soft materials. A landscaped edge can make for a beautifully finished driveway!
So be sure to address how the asphalt edges will be taken care of with your contractor before installation. You’ll find honest and reputable contractors will take the time to address the edges and finish them correctly. An unethical contractor, who is more interested in, “get in, get out and get paid fast” will not address the edges at all or very little at best.
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