Driveway Paving Questions

[DawnCt]

We need a new driveway and I am in the process of collecting four bids. So far there is a $3700 price fluctuation from the lowest bid to the highest. We have clay soil. The lowest bid suggested paving over the existing driveway. (out of the question) The next bid suggested 6 inches of a gravel base, the third bid 7 to 8 inches and the highest bid, which is so far only $100 dollars away from the third bid is a 12 inch base. I am still waitinig for one more estimate. What do you think is a reasonable base for clay soil. I know that nothing is crack proof, particularly in the northeast. Help!

 

[jamsmom]

Dawn, I haven't a clue, but sure hope someone here can help you out

 

[helenabear]

I don't have a clue either... just bumping in hope that someone does

 

[Marla Hellwig]

It has been so long since I had mine down - but they dug out the black top one - smoothed it out and poured gravel and then concrete - all I remember it was expensive back then - at least 15 years ago

 

[jipsy]

http://www.eng-tips.com/gviewthread.cfm/lev2/8/lev3/41/pid/158/qid/33534

 

[Regina]

We had a new driveway put in last year, and we also have clay soil.

They removed the worst part of it, put down a gravel base (6 inches), while paving over the part that wasn't in need of full replacement. The paving is 4" thick. The "flag" area of the driveway is 20' by 30'.

Our driveway is 120' long. We also had our driveway expanded so that there's parking for two of the kids cars.

We used someone who's been in the business for many years. This winter was a real test with the horrible weather that we had. It looks great, not a crack in sight. The whole job cost us $3500.00.

 

[Pin Wizard]

Originally posted by Marla Hellwig
It has been so long since I had mine down - but they dug out the black top one - smoothed it out and poured gravel and then concrete - all I remember it was expensive back then - at least 15 years ago

This is exactly what my homeowner's association is talking about doing. I'll be thrilled to get rid of the blacktop...it's such a pain in the neck to keep coating it. But the expense of a new driveway is a killer!

 

[pumba]

3600 for a driveway that was not done right the first time......we are on a clay bed too.......so make sure that they dig down at least four or five feet.......they did the second time here......fill it with rock.......first....then smaller rock and gravel and then gravel......then make sure they put a good base of tar on top of that.......the first smoes got us but good.......this guy explained that the clay has to be taken out so that we will not heave in the winter and spring.....good luck and have someone there to watch what they do .....

 

[DisneyVillain]

There are a lot of disreputable contractors in this business. Be sure you check with the BBB before hiring anyone.