| Author |
Message |
    
seidperson
Citizen
Username: Seidperson
Post Number: 56
Registered: 4-2002
| | Posted on Thursday, February 24, 2005 - 12:46 pm: | 
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I am experiencing MUCH confusion about repaving our driveway.
I have been in touch with 3 people recommended on this board, Mike Giordano, Avellino and Basile.
Two of these guys have recommended that we rip up the driveway completely and put a new one down. After they rip up the old driveway and put down new stone, we have to wait a few weeks before putting down the new blacktop so the stone can settle in. This is supposed to help prevent later cracks.
HOWEVER, the third guy has recommended that we just put 2 inches of blacktop on top of the old driveway. He says it is better to do it that way as the old driveway provides a better base than putting blacktop on top of newly-drug ground and newly-placed stone.
HELP!!! I am not sure what to do. Obviously, we'll save money by not having to rip up the old driveway (which is not in such terrible shape, by the way). BUT if it is better to rip it up and start fresh, we will do so.
What experiences have others had? Thanks to everyone for your advice! This is, obviously, a new world for me. |
golden
Citizen
Username: Golden
Post Number: 93
Registered: 5-2001
| | Posted on Thursday, February 24, 2005 - 11:49 pm: |
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I believe the proper way to proceed is to rip up the old driveway and prep it with stone. We had estimates from several local contractors when our driveway was redone,and not one said that you could repave right over an existing drive without ripping it up first.
Why not ask the third contractor for local references for jobs that he has done using the 2inches of blacktop over an existing driveway and see if they are happy with the results.
Good luck |
mjc
Citizen
Username: Mjc
Post Number: 288
Registered: 10-2004
| | Posted on Friday, February 25, 2005 - 10:02 am: |
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We repaved over the existing driveway 3 or 4 years ago, added probably 2 inches of asphalt. So far it's fine EXCEPT that the apron is higher than the sidewalk, so it's always bump-bump driving in or out.
You can ask the paver to dig out a little where the driveway and the apron meet the sidewalk (and where the apron meets the street) so there won't be a bump. Ours dug out the driveway but not the apron, so be specific with your directions.
You also have to consider what runs along the sides of your driveway, whether the additional height would work there.
cheers -
MC |
compsy
Citizen
Username: Compsy
Post Number: 174
Registered: 1-2002
| | Posted on Tuesday, March 1, 2005 - 11:43 pm: |
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Has anyone had experience with underground ice-melting equipment--you know, the kind that automatically comes on and melts any ice or snow on the driveway from underneath by heating it up? |
sbenois
Supporter
Username: Sbenois
Post Number: 13293
Registered: 10-2001
| | Posted on Tuesday, March 1, 2005 - 11:46 pm: |
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Here is the answer. It's very simple. Are you ready?
DO WHATEVER MIKE GIORDANO RECOMMENDS. HE IS THE BEST CONTRACTOR I EVER DEALT WITH |
microgem
Citizen
Username: Microgem
Post Number: 49
Registered: 2-2002
| | Posted on Wednesday, March 2, 2005 - 7:43 am: |
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I totally disagree about Mike Giordano. He strung us along for three months and when it came time for the job to start, he never showed up!
We called him everyday for two weeks and then once a week for six weeks and never heard from him again. So, I would say he is definately not the best contractor to deal with.
It was too late to hire another contractor for the job, so we moved on to something else in our house. Needless to say we still need to get our driveway done. Everytime I snowblow or shovel my uneven driveway I have a little bad reminder about Mike Giordano.
We would like to finally get it done this spring, any other recommendations?
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