The Complete Homeowner’s Guide to Asphalt Driveway Installation in Schenectady
Need a new driveway in Schenectady? Don’t wait for the cracks to get worse — book a free paving estimate today with Egan Paving, the Capital Region’s trusted asphalt experts.
Why Asphalt?
When it comes to residential driveways in Schenectady and the surrounding Capital Region, asphalt continues to be the preferred material for homeowners who value long-term performance and cost-efficiency. Asphalt is a flexible material that adjusts to the harsh freeze-thaw cycles we face in Upstate New York, reducing the risk of cracking and structural damage over time. Unlike concrete, which is susceptible to expansion cracks, asphalt provides durability, a smooth finish, and quick installation at a fraction of the price.
It’s also easier to maintain — small cracks can be filled, and periodic sealcoating keeps it looking fresh for years. Add in its eco-friendly recyclability, and it’s clear why most homeowners in Schenectady choose asphalt.
Step-by-Step Installation Process
At Egan Paving, our driveway installation process is designed for maximum longevity and performance. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
Site Evaluation
Our experienced team inspects your property to determine slope, soil composition, and existing drainage. This is crucial in avoiding long-term water pooling or settling.
Grading & Excavation
We begin by removing the old driveway or excavating the surface to the proper depth. Grading ensures that water will drain away from your foundation.
Sub-Base Installation
A layer of crushed stone (typically 6-8 inches) is laid down and compacted. This base layer is the most important structural element, absorbing the weight of vehicles and resisting frost heave.
Binder Layer (If Needed)
For high-use driveways or steeper grades, we apply a binder course of aggregate-rich asphalt beneath the surface layer.
Top Asphalt Layer
A smooth, hot-mix asphalt top layer is installed, compacted with heavy rollers, and carefully finished to avoid surface imperfections.
Curing & Finishing
After paving, the asphalt cools and cures within 24-48 hours. We recommend light use (foot traffic) after 24 hours and full vehicle use after 48-72 hours.
How Long Does Installation Take?
Most residential driveway installations take between 1 to 3 days depending on weather, site complexity, and driveway size. Egan Paving always works with your schedule to ensure minimal disruption to your home life.
Key Maintenance Tips
To keep your new asphalt driveway looking its best for decades:
Sealcoat every 2-3 years to prevent oxidation and water infiltration.
Avoid parking heavy vehicles on the edges where there is less structural support.
Sweep and rinse regularly to keep dirt and debris from accumulating.
Watch for early cracks and have them filled quickly to prevent water from damaging the base layer.
Check out our related guide: Sealcoating Services in Albany
Common Installation Mistakes to Avoid
Not all paving companies follow best practices. Some of the most common issues we see in Schenectady driveways that weren't installed by Egan include:
Thin asphalt layers that crack within a year
Poor grading that causes puddling and pooling near the garage
Inadequate base compaction resulting in settlement or sinkholes
Lack of edge support, leading to crumbling and spreading
When you work with Egan Paving, you’re working with a team that’s been building driveways the right way for 50+ years.
Bonus: What to Ask Before Hiring a Driveway Contractor
Before signing a contract, ask your paving contractor:
Are you fully licensed and insured?
How thick will the asphalt layers be?
What kind of base material do you use?
How will you handle water drainage?
Do you offer a warranty?
We answer YES to every one of those questions.
