When thinking about driveway materials, homeowners usually consider such options as concrete, gravel, and the classic asphalt. However, there is an inexpensive and greener alternative that is getting popular: asphalt millings.
Have you ever asked yourself, “Are asphalt millings good driveway material?” This step-by-step guide will explain what they are, their advantages and disadvantages, their price, their upkeep, and how they may work for your home.
What Are Asphalt Millings?
Recycled asphalt millings, also known as reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP), are scraps of old asphalt that have been ground into tiny spheres during road resurfacing or replacement works.
These materials are not discarded, but instead they are gathered, recycled, and used for driveways, roads, and parking lots. A combination of asphalt binder, stone, and sand is typically what is contained in the millings, forming a semi-solid surface when compacted.
So, old roads are recycled with asphalt millings, which is not only economical but also saves on waste.
Why Homeowners Choose Asphalt Millings
Asphalt millings have been a popular favorite in rural and suburban (and even semi-urban) properties.
Homeowners will use this material because of three primary reasons:
Cost: It is less expensive than fresh asphalt or concrete.
Durability: Millings have a lifespan of several years when installed correctly.
Sustainability: It is a recycled product, thus an environmentally-friendly product.
We shall discuss each of these advantages in greater detail.
Advantages of Using Asphalt Millings for a Driveway
Cost-Effective Solution
Asphalt millings typically cost between $1 to $3 per square foot, installed, as compared to new asphalt which may be between $4 to $8 per square foot, installed. That is a big difference particularly when it comes to long or wide driveways. Since it is recycled, it is much less expensive to manufacture and deliver, which is why the material is an excellent option when considering low-end pricing for homeowners.
Environmentally Friendly
The use of asphalt millings minimizes waste and saves natural resources. Millions of tons of asphalt are being recycled annually, and the utilization of millings is in line with sustainability initiatives. Reusing old pavement helps reduce the quantity of new oil-based asphalt that is needed, which then reduces emissions and decreases landfill material.
Low Maintenance
When compacted and settled, asphalt millings need little maintenance. It does not need to be sealcoated, and grading or re-compaction every now and then can keep it smooth over the years.
Besides, millings do not wash away easily during heavy rain like gravel driveways, and they are likely to remain in place.
Good Drainage Properties
Water can drain through small particles of asphalt millings. Its semi-permeable feature prevents puddles and erosion, thus it can be used in areas where rain or snow occur.
But it is important that water moves away and this can be achieved by proper installation and grading.
Solid and Stable Surface
When compacted correctly, asphalt millings solidify into a solid surface which resembles conventional asphalt. They do not become as soft in the summer or as brittle in the winter as fresh asphalt can, and this makes asphalt millings more resistant to wear and tear and time.
Disadvantages of Asphalt Millings
Although there are numerous advantages, asphalt millings are not suitable on all driveways. The following are some of the possible weaknesses.
Not as Smooth as New Asphalt
The texture of millings is a little stiffer than new asphalt. This may not be the best choice if you want a smooth, jet-black finish. The road may appear more like gravel than tarmac.
May Require Professional Installation
Some homeowners attempt to do the work themselves, but a professional installation guarantees the highest quality. The surface must be graded, compacted, and maybe sprayed with a binding agent to ensure that it is stable. Millings may move or form ruts – particularly where there is heavy vehicle traffic – unless they are compacted.
Can Get Dusty or Muddy if Poorly Installed
Unless asphalt millings are compacted, the surface layer may become dusty during dry weather or muddy in wet weather. To minimize these problems, a sealant or emulsifier can be applied that will bind the surface together.
Not Ideal for Every Climate
In places where there is a severe freeze-thaw cycle, the surface may occasionally move or loosen up with time. Periodic maintenance is sufficient, but in regions with a northern climate, a stabilizer or an asphalt emulsion may be used to add additional protection.
How to Install Asphalt Millings Driveway
An asphalt millings driveway that has been installed properly will last up to 20 years or even longer.
This is a simplified formula of how it is achieved:
Step 1: Prepare the Base
The ground or driveway is graded and compacted to form a stable foundation. A slight slope guarantees the appropriate drainage of water.
Step 2: Spread the Millings
The overlay consists of a layer of asphalt millings which is typically 3 to 4 inches thick and which is spread uniformly over the surface.
Step 3: Compact the Surface
The millings are compacted with heavy machinery (such as a roller). A binding agent or heat can be used to aid the fusing of the millings.
Step 4: Seal (Optional)
A sealant or asphalt emulsion is used to obtain a hard, smooth, and durable surface.
Cost Breakdown: Asphalt Millings vs Other Driveway Materials
| Material | Average Cost per sq. ft. (Installed) | Lifespan | Maintenance Level |
| Asphalt Millings | $1 – $3 | 15–20 years | Low |
| New Asphalt | $4 – $8 | 20–25 years | Moderate |
| Concrete | $6 – $10 | 25–40 years | Low |
| Gravel | $1 – $2 | 5–10 years | High |
As you can see, asphalt millings offer one of the best prices-to-life ratios, particularly to homeowners who have a longer driveway.