What Factors Determine the Cost of Asphalt Services in Houston?

With several project specific factors that may influence the cost of your new asphalt, it is important to understand how each of those components add up to the final price. Here is a more in-depth look at each of the factors:

• • The size and scope of your asphalt project – The most impactful cost factor for your asphalt project is its size and scope. When installing or maintaining asphalt, your contractor will measure out the project size in square footage, and in general, the bigger the project, the more it will likely cost.

    However, if your project site has an unusual layout, if there is limited access, or if there are multiple project areas (even if they’re smaller), it may cost more to cover the additional labor and work.

  • The asphalt services your project will include – There are several types of asphalt services, from basic crack repairs to full depth pavement replacement. These services range greatly in cost. Asphalt maintenance services, for example, cost less than installation or replacement services.

    The cost of asphalt maintenance also depends on the size of the project area and your asphalt’s condition. Cost is also determined by the exact maintenance services your asphalt will require, as crack repairs are less expensive than an asphalt overlay, for instance.

  • Any site development and post-installation services – Most asphalt projects require some degree of site development, and you may need finishing services once your asphalt is installed or restored through maintenance.

    Site development includes all of the dirt work needed to stabilize the project site and ensure it properly drains once the job is done. It typically includes a site survey, land clearing, base preparation and stabilization, site grading and drainage construction. In some cases, site preparation services cost more than asphalt installation and maintenance – especially if the project area is larger in size, or if the land hasn’t been developed to any extent.

    Following installation or maintenance, your asphalt may need a round of asphalt sealcoating or striping to restore its markings. These essential services will add to the project’s cost.

  • The materials included in the project – Asphalt is available in a variety of mixes and grades, each with their own specifications and applications. Some mixes are designed for heavier, commercial-grade traffic, while other mixes are appropriate for lighter traffic. Like every other product, there is high quality asphalt and low-quality asphalt.

    Reputable pavement contractors rely on high quality asphalt for their work to guarantee better, longer lasting results. This may increase the project’s upfront cost, though it will minimize your maintenance overhead in the long term.

  • Houston’s seasonal climate and weather patterns – Houston’s warmer and wetter weather places additional challenges on pavement contractors. When temperatures are extremely high, asphalt softens and takes longer to install and cure. It is also worth noting that asphalt cannot be installed when it rains as this will compromise the mix’s strength and curing time.

    If Houston’s weather interferes with scheduling or executing the project, it may affect its cost as well.

These cost factors may change with market forces or with the calendar, so they can only be assessed for a particular project and for a single point in time.