How Many Tons of Asphalt for a Driveway?
A 20ร40 ft driveway at 3 inches compacted needs 14.5 tons of hot mix โ order 15 to 16 with waste. At roughly $110 per ton plus delivery, material runs about $1,700 before labor and base. This guide shows the tonnage math, the base it sits on, and when an overlay beats full removal.
Step-by-Step Takeoff
-
1
Measure length ร width and confirm compacted thickness (3 in = 0.25 ft).
-
2
Volume: 20 ร 40 ร 0.25 = 200 cu ft.
-
3
Tons: 200 ร 145 รท 2000 = 14.5 tons; order 15โ16.
-
4
Base: 4โ6 in of compacted crushed stone underneath (separate order).
-
5
Check drainage fall (1/4 in per foot away from the garage) before the paver arrives.
-
6
Compact edges first, then roll in overlapping passes while the mat is above 175F.
-
7
Get the full quote with labor in the Asphalt Calculator.
Guide FAQ
How thick should a driveway be?
3 in compacted over base for cars; 4 in for RVs and heavy equipment.
Can I pave over old asphalt?
Yes with 1.5โ2 in overlay if the base is sound โ alligator cracking means full removal.
How much does an asphalt driveway cost?
Roughly $4,000โ$8,000 installed for 800 sq ft depending on base work and region.
How long before driving on new asphalt?
24โ48 hours for cars; a week before heavy trucks or sharp jack stands.
When is the paving season?
Above 50F ambient and rising โ cold mats ravel at the edges.
Related Guides
How Much Gravel for a Driveway?
Cubic yards, tons, delivery cost, and base depth for a 20x40 ft driveway at 4 inches deep.
How Many Bags of Concrete for a 10ร10 Slab?
Bag count, cubic yards, and cost for the classic 10x10 patio slab at 4 inches thick. Includes ready-mix breakpoint and curing plan.
How Much Fence for a 100 ft Yard Run?
Posts, pickets, rails, gate hardware, and post-hole concrete for a 100-foot privacy run with one gate.