Have one of these 5 asphalt driveway design ideas inspired you? Asphalt is the driveway material of choice for many Canadian homeowners due to its durability throughout the winter season and affordability. While asphalt is known to be relatively inexpensive, you’ll need more specific numbers to properly budget for your project. Here’s what it will cost to repair, replace or install an asphalt driveway.
Repairs and Resurfacing $4-$10/square foot
Asphalt is durable, but it does need some maintenance and repairs every three to five years, especially in Canadian weather. If you’ve noticed signs that your asphalt could use a touch-up, now is a great time to get those repairs done.
When it comes to maintaining and repairing your asphalt driveway, there are a few options. You can choose either to have it repaired or resurfaced. If you’re dealing with small potholes, cracks less than ¼ of an inch thick or other surface-level damage, then repairs to those areas are a good option for you. Pros will typically charge between $5 and $15 per square foot to patch small cracks and potholes. There are a few methods of patching, including infrared repairs, cold patches and hot patches, all of which vary in cost. Speak to a professional to find out the pros and cons of each of these methods.
We recommend resurfacing if you notice larger cracks and potholes but the base of your driveway is still sound. Resurfacing involves adding a layer of asphalt to your driveway and typically costs between $4 and $10 per square foot. While it won’t repair underlying issues, it will extend the lifespan on your driveway. To further extend the life of your driveway, ask your pro about having it sealed.
Replacement $11-$21/square foot
If you suspect that the foundation of your driveway needs attention, it’s best to have your driveway replaced. Alligator cracks are a good indicator that your driveway needs more than patching or resurfacing. These kinds of cracks mean the sub-layers of your driveway aren’t able to support the surface. If left unaddressed, the networks of cracks will grow, leaving potholes where pieces have chipped away.
Replacement involved removing and redoing the entire driveway, including the gravel foundation. This job will also allow you to address any drainage issues you have with your driveway which may be causing the foundational issues. Replacement costs between $11 and $21 per square foot, depending on whether your driveway needs re-grading, ease of access, and other factors.
Installation $10-$18/square foot
If you’re looking to install an all-new asphalt driveway, it will usually cost between $10 and $18 per square foot. That being said, these costs can fluctuate depending on the amount of prep work the area needs, permits, access to the property and the exact type of asphalt you’re installing. For example, stamped or coloured asphalt will cost between $16 and $25 per square foot. That being said, when installed correctly, asphalt will only need to be replaced every 15 to 20 years.
Below are the average costs of Driveway services in Canada:
| Country | Average | Minimum | Maximum |
| Canada | $7,609 | $150 | $20,000 |
*Costs based on 36 verified Canadian homeowner reviews as of March 2022
Now that you’re familiar with the costs, it’s time to discuss the specifics of your project with pros. An expert will give you the most accurate price estimate. Don’t forget to get quotes from multiple pros using the banner below!
