How much does an Asphalt Driveway cost?

The average driveway asphalt cost in Australia is approximately $30 per square metre. Depending on certain factors, you can expect to pay between $25 to $45 per square metre for most standard residential asphalt driveways.

 

Cost for Asphalt Driveways Across Australia

Below is a cost list for the average asphalt prices throughout Australia for driveways. Depending on where you live, some cities and states may cost less or slightly more for the same asphalt services in other areas. The cost list below includes prices per square metre across Australia.

State/Territory	Average Asphalt Driveway Costs
New South Wales	$45 per square metre
Queensland	$40 per square metre
Northern Territory	$30 – $40 per square metre
South Australia	$30 per square metre
Western Australia	$25 per square metre

Asphalt is a special mixture of aggregates that contain fillers and binders that make the final product, which is also known as bitumen. Asphalt is used for the construction of roads, parking lots, basketball courts, driveways and more.

Some of the aggregates commonly found in asphalt mixtures include slags, gravel, sand or crushed rock. For the aggregates to bind into a cohesive mix, bitumen is utilised as a binder. Asphalt is also called hot-top or blacktop by some. There are different types of asphalt applications, and they can be categorized by the mixing process used to bind the bitumen with the aggregate.

 

Types of Asphalt

Warm Mix Asphalt Concrete – Warm mix concrete doesn’t need high temperatures in the manufacturing process because it utilises the addition of waxes, zeolites, and emulsions. Although this is an eco-friendlier product using fewer fossil fuels during the mix, it’s not as durable as a hot mixture of asphalt concrete. This type of asphalt is often used for patching or low traffic areas.

Hot Mix Asphalt Concrete – Hot mix asphalt concrete is manufactured under robust heat, and it’s the most durable type of asphalt. You can find hot mix asphalt concrete on high-traffic applications such as airport runways, highways, and racetracks.

Mastic Asphalt – Mastic asphalt uses less bitumen in the mixture than hot mix asphalt concrete. Mastic is a type of cold mix asphalt that’s usually stocked in stores like Bunnings, commonly found in sidewalks, play courts, roads, roofing, and driveways.

Regardless of the asphalt type, asphalt does require some maintenance to provide maximum durability and protection.

Installing a high-quality asphalt driveway is always the goal in the end; however, many factors impact the overall driveway cost. Finding a balance between value and price is key to getting the biggest bang for your buck. Factors that you may want to consider as crucial parts in your project planning include:

The amount of asphalt needed – Once you decide on the width, length, and depth of your driveway, speak to a contractor to provide you with a written quote.

Transportation cost – How far is the asphalt production facility from your residence? The further your location is away from the facility, the more you can expect to pay for transportation costs. Additionally, hot or warm mixes will also impact the price the further the distance.

Asphalt material type – The type of asphalt that you use can impact the cost. The best solution is to obtain information during the estimate process on which kind of asphalt mix will work the best for your specific location and driveway.

Market factors – Factors such as crude oil prices, construction activity, environmental regulations as well as local and global economies can all impact the cost of asphalt.

Long-term costs – Asphalt driveways will require future maintenance to protect against oil and water spots, UV rays, and degrading from vehicle weight.

Excavation – If you have a driveway that needs excavation before the new one is laid down, you will need to pay for removal and disposal services.

Additional areas – Additional areas such as carports and walkways will cost more. If you have a carport that you want to be incorporated into the driveway, it’s more cost-effective to pave your carport at the same time as your driveway.

There are many benefits of an asphalt driveway when compared to other material types such as concrete, gravel, and pavers. One of the most significant benefits is the cost. Asphalt driveways are less expensive than most other material types and just as durable. Asphalt also has more benefits that include:

• Shorter curing time
• Low maintenance and repairs
• Affordability
• Durability
• Curb appeal
• Increases property value
• Oil leaks are less noticeable
• Excellent for all seasons

Asphalt driveways in Australia require at least a slope of 1:100 to drain; however, the maximum grade and slope are mandated by your local council. It’s always best to contact your local council on grade requirements before you start your driveway project. Below is a list of essential requirements throughout Australia that ensures the most durable driveway:

Australia Requirements	Measurements
Excavation	Between 200mm – 300mm and grade
A base of fine gravel	Must be level
Use of vibrating roller or plate to ensure proper compaction
Depth	At least 50mm of 20mm graded aggregate
Driveway cover	At least 20mm of 10mm graded aggregate

As mentioned above, there are generally three types of asphalt driveways. On average you can expect to pay between $25 to $40 per square metre. A hot mix driveway will cost more than a warm mix, and the aggregates used for each type will also impact the cost. For most Aussies, a mastic asphalt driveway will work just fine. For this type of asphalt driveway, $30 per square metre is right in the ballpark.

Tip #1 – The process of hiring an asphalt contractor should start with obtaining written estimates and references.

Tip #2 – It’s imperative to ask them what their warranties cover as well as making sure that they have valid and current licenses and proof of insurance.

Tip #3 – You do not want an asphalt contractor on your property that doesn’t have insurance because if something happens, you’ll be held liable. You can also check the contractor’s license status and qualifications.

 

How to Create an Accurate Estimate

Tip #1 – To create an accurate estimate, you will need to know the type of asphalt mix you want and how much asphalt you need. You will also need to factor in the removal of your old driveway and the slope. You can figure out how many square metres of asphalt you need by multiplying the width times the length times the depth.

Tip #2 – If this sounds complicated, one of the best ways to create an accurate estimate is to start getting written proposals from multiple asphalt contractors. You should obtain at least three to five written estimates before you sign any contracts. There will be a wealth of information contained in the proposals that should include the amount of asphalt as well as pricing for removal and groundwork.

 

How to Save Money When Hiring an Asphalt Contractor

Tip #1 – One of the most significant cost factors is the removal and disposal of an existing driveway. If you have the will and determination to rent a jackhammer and use some of the garden equipment that you have in your shed, you could save $1,000 or more. You will also need to dispose of the old driveway at your local landfill facility; therefore, you will need a truck or utility trailer to transport the debris.

Tip #2 – Getting multiple quotes to understand different contractor’s ability to furnish references, licenses, and insurance, and select the best asphalt contractor that works within your budget. Selecting contractors that are too far away can increase your transportation costs.

Tip #3 – Avoid hiring an asphalt contractor during the peak season of summer. Organise your contractor to install any carports or walkways you wish to have during your driveway project. This will save you money, as your contractor will have the paving equipment on hand. Additionally, make sure access is not a problem for your asphalt contractor.

 

* The cost data is based on Oneflare and third-party sources