Project Description
Straka Construction & Earthmoving LTD run a full time asphalt crew, who prepare the ground underneath and follow the job right through to the final hand-laying stages, with a beautiful finished product that is contemporary and classic at the same time.
COMMERCIAL ASPHALT.
Our specialist hand-laying asphalt crew have worked extensively with all levels of asphalt, on both civil and private jobs. We can put our know-how from working on Auckland’s roads and streets for over 15 years to good use for you. Our finishes are superb and detailed. A fully sealed road or driveway creates an immediate impression of grandeur and craftsmanship. Let our experience work in your favour!
CONCRETE OR ASPHALT?
The most common question that we get asked. There are many pros and cons to both, and the job and property at hand need to be carefully considered. Concrete is technically more durable, and harder wearing. There are a lot of factors that come into play with how a driveway will last with asphalt. The biggest factor is the sub-grade base creation. This means proper compaction, thickness, drainage, and thoughtful design.
With asphalt, like anything, its the sub-grade preparation and proper drainage that makes the difference. Its longevity comes from the compaction and perfection of the ground beneath it. Asphalt does not have reinforcing mesh like concrete does, therefore the preparation work must be exquisite. This is why you see blow-outs on normal roads, as water gets through cracks on the surface, or poor preparation underneath leads to the fatigue and weakening in the sub-grade layer. The asphalt on top then simply crumbles with the weight and pressure of vehicles.
Asphalt gets is strength and integrity from the ground beneath it. It is a membrane over the top of the structural integrity below.
What about cost?
Costing out concrete vs asphalt comes down to the state of the ground we have to deal with. Costs vary between properties with expansive soils, water problems, narrow or poor access, poor bases, and more. A flat and dry site with good access will always be a cheaper project to work with than one with all the issues listed above. We do not use a base price per meter rate, as we have to account for things like creating access, extra time for cartage with distance. We can offer a price guide over the phone or email with pictures and measurements. This gives you an idea on whether or not to proceed with a more involved fixed-price quote.