When it comes to asphalt millings vs. gravel, do you know the difference? Selecting the right asphalt material for your property is crucial for long-lasting and cost-effective results. From materials to costs, here are the differences between asphalt vs. gravel to make the best decision for your property.
Asphalt Millings vs. Gravel: Which is Best for Your Property?
Asphalt millings and gravel are two popular options often considered for parking lots, roads, and driveways, each offering distinct advantages depending on your specific needs. Below, we’ll explore the key differences in physical properties, application processes, and average costs to help you make an informed decision that aligns with your project requirements and budget.
Asphalt Millings vs. Gravel: Physical Properties
Asphalt milling, also known as reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP), is the process of grinding recycled asphalt. This material is typically sourced from the resurfacing or removal of existing asphalt, making it an eco-friendly option. The recycling process not only reduces waste but also helps conserve natural resources by repurposing old asphalt for new projects.
Since asphalt millings are made from previously used asphalt, their physical properties can vary significantly. For example, some recycled asphalt might contain less durable materials than others, potentially affecting the overall quality and longevity of the surface. Additionally, it may not have the same refined and polished look as new asphalt due to the various materials sourced, which can result in a more rustic or uneven appearance. However, this variability can be minimized with proper screening and quality control during the milling process.
Gravel is made of small rocks, stones, and sand particles. It’s commonly used in road construction, landscaping, and as a base material for various construction projects. Its physical design is also used for natural aesthetics in driveways and walkways.
Asphalt vs. Gravel: Durability and Drainage
When comparing asphalt millings and gravel, cost and longevity are often the biggest factors for homeowners or businesses.
- Asphalt Millings: While the upfront cost of asphalt millings might be slightly higher than gravel, they offer significant long-term savings. Once compacted, millings create a hard, durable surface that requires minimal maintenance. Their compact nature helps prevent water pooling and reduces the need for regular re-grading. They are more durable and work best for hight-traffic areas.
- Gravel: Gravel is usually cheaper initially, but it tends to shift and move over time, requiring periodic replenishment and maintenance. Without proper upkeep, potholes or washouts can develop, which can increase costs in the long run.
While asphalt millings may seem like the better option due to their durability and long-term savings, gravel is more permeable for water. It offers strong drainage to prevent standing water and drainage issues like puddles and floods. And due to its rocky surface, it offers a non-slip surface with solid traction, making it safer for walking and driving in wet weather conditions. However, it’s not ideal for high-traffic volume areas since it’s not smooth like asphalt millings, which could potentially damage fast-moving vehicles and the gravel itself.
Asphalt vs. Gravel: Application Process
As mentioned, asphalt milling uses heavy machinery to grind the old asphalt materials into small pieces. The process starts with removing the top layer of the asphalt. From there, the material that was removed will be grinded up and used in the aggregate that will be laid.
Next, it needs to be compacted so it sticks together. Finally, the milling will need to be sealcoated to ensure it stays intact. The installation process is relatively quick, minimizing parking lot closure times and reducing construction time for property owners.
While generally simpler than asphalt, installing gravel correctly requires proper base preparation to prevent sinking and promote drainage. After the base layer is prepped, the gravel is spread evenly with a rake.
Asphalt Millings vs. Gravel: Costs, Average Lifespan, and Maintenance
Since asphalt millings use recycled asphalt, it’s more cost-effective than fresh asphalt. The average cost of asphalt is between $80 – $160 per cubic yard, whereas asphalt millings cost between $12 – $32 per cubic yard plus delivery and installation.
As for lifespan, the average lifespan of asphalt depends on if it’s new or existing. For new asphalt, it lasts six months before sealcoating is required for optimal maintenance. For existing asphalt, sealcoating is needed every 3 to 5 years to preserve its lifespan. It’s also a good idea to get sealcoating done if you choose to go with asphalt millings to get a higher quality surface closer to asphalt.
Gravel will be the more cost-effective route, generally costing are around $10 – $50 per cubic yard, depending on the type of gravel, project size, and labor. While the cost per cubic yard is roughly the same range, asphalt millings require more more labor, and more depth, which ends up making it more expensive. The average lifespan for roadway gravel with 300 cars daily is between 12 and 15 years. For maintenance, minimal upkeeping is required for occasional leveling, cleaning, and adding some more gravel every few years to preserve its lifespan.
Millings vs. Gravel: Which is Best for Your Property?
Now that you understand the key differences between gravel vs. asphalt millings, we’ll break down the pros and cons of each.
Asphalt milling is a sustainable and durable option. If you’re a property owner with a busy parking lot or facility with heavy truck loading, then asphalt millings are the better choice over gravel. Its smooth and strong surface can withstand heavy traffic volume. However, maintenance and potential appearance variations should be considered when considering this option over fresh asphalt.
| Asphalt Millings | Gravel |
| Sustainable option with recycled asphalt | New material sourcing |
| Smoother surface | Rough, rocky surface |
| Quick installation with minimal closure duration | Base preparation required before installation |
| Drainage system installation may be required | Strong water drainage |
| Periodic sealcoating | Cleaning maintenance required |
| Ideal for heavier traffic volume | Ideal for low traffic volume |
The choice of gravel type depends on factors like the intended use, aesthetics, and the project’s specific requirements. Gravel is not ideal for high and heavy traffic volume areas due to its rocky surface that can damage fast-moving vehicles. It’s best for homeowners with driveways and walkways for safer walking with families in rainy weather.
Get Help Deciding if Asphalt or Gravel is Best for Your Property
Whether you’re looking for a smooth and durable surface from asphalt millings or prefer a more rustic option from gravel, understanding the characteristics and benefits of each allows you to select the suitable material that meets your property’s needs. Now that you know the differences between asphalt millings vs. gravel, you can make an informed decision.
Still need help deciding which is best?
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FAQs
What are the benefits of asphalt millings?
Asphalt millings are durable, long-lasting, and require less maintenance, which can save you money long-term. Asphalt millings are best for high-traffic areas and heavily used roads.
What are the benefits of gravel?
Gravel has a lower upfront cost, and provides better drainage which prevents standing water and large puddles.
How much do asphalt millings cost?
Asphalt millings cost between $12 – $32 per cubic yard
How much does gravel cost for a parking lot?
Gravel surfaces cost between $10 – $50 per cubic yard, but generally require less depth than asphalt millings, making it more cost effective upfront.
