If you have an existing concrete driveway, it is always better to remove it before laying asphalt; otherwise, you can face a number of challenges. It is not a must because it is possible to lay asphalt over concrete if elevations allow for it, but there are downsides to this option, so you need to be aware of them before you proceed.

It is always recommended that you remove the existing concrete first because the sub-base is different from that of an asphalt driveway, so laying asphalt over concrete can be problematic because of the initial preparation of the site. When it comes to concrete, contractors can lay a thicker slab if they are concerned about strength or stability, and because of this, there is no need to prepare the base. The ground underneath a concrete driveway can be prone to shifting or sinking, and the only way to know this is to dig it up. If you were to lay asphalt over concrete, there would be two things to worry about, including the unprepared sub-base and the concrete itself.

If something is wrong with either of these layers, you will be able to see the problem through the asphalt, and if an asphalt driveway is poured over concrete that is resting on an unstable base, that asphalt may be unstable. Any expansion joints in the concrete will turn into cracks in your asphalt, and this will require costly repairs. In some cases, shifts in the ground can crack the entire surface, so this is not a risk you should take.

Pouring asphalt over concrete is also bad for the longevity of your driveway, and this is another reason why you should remove a concrete driveway before laying asphalt. It may look fine at first but it is very likely that you will experience problems over time because your driveway will need a lot more work. When asphalt driveways are built from the ground up, they will not only look better but will last longer as well because it will have a stable base, meaning less maintenance will be required. This will save you money in the long run, so it’s always best to remove your concrete driveway first. In most cases, concrete and asphalt work better side by side as opposed to one on top of the other, so keep that in mind.

Bortolo and Sons can provide you with more information, and we can help with all of your seal coating and asphalt paving needs. We specialize in concrete paving, driveway pavers, and more, so if you are in the Burnaby area, contact us today!