How to estimate a Paving Job

Whether you’re a homeowner planning a new asphalt driveway or a business owner looking to repave a parking lot, understanding how to estimate a paving job is key to staying on budget. At DVA Contractor, we aim to make the process transparent so you know what to expect before the first shovel hits the ground.

Step 1: Determine the Size of the Area

Start by measuring the square footage of the area you want paved. For rectangular spaces, multiply the length by the width. For irregular areas, break them down into smaller sections or consult with a paving expert.

Example: A driveway that is 12 feet wide and 50 feet long = 600 square feet.

Step 2: Choose the Paving Material

The type of material used has a big impact on your project’s cost. Most paving jobs use asphalt, which is cost-effective, durable, and ideal for various climates.

• Asphalt: $3–$5 per square foot (residential), $4–$8 (commercial)
• Concrete: Typically higher in cost, covered in our comparison article

Step 3: Consider Site Preparation

If your project site requires grading, drainage solutions, or removal of old materials, this will affect the estimate. For example, removing old asphalt or concrete can cost $1–$2 per square foot.

Step 4: Factor in Labor and Equipment

Labor makes up a significant portion of your paving budget. The complexity of the job, accessibility, and local labor rates will impact the total cost.

Step 5: Add Material and Thickness Requirements

Asphalt typically requires 2 to 3 inches of compacted material for residential driveways and up to 4 inches for commercial parking lots. The thicker the layer, the higher the material and labor costs.

Step 6: Include Finishing Touches

Additional services like crack filling, sealcoating, or line striping for parking lots may increase your estimate but add value and longevity to the surface.

Step 7: Request a Professional Estimate

While you can calculate a rough estimate using the above steps, it’s always best to get a professional quote. At DVA Contractor, we provide accurate, no-obligation estimates tailored to your specific needs.

Quick Estimate Example

Let’s say you want to pave a 1,000 sq ft driveway with 3-inch asphalt thickness:

• Material & Labor: 1,000 sq ft × $4.50 = $4,500
• Site Preparation: $1,000
• Finishing (sealcoat): $300
• Total Estimate: $5,800

Let Us Help You Estimate It Right

Need help calculating your paving costs? Our experts are ready to assist with personalized recommendations and options that suit your goals and budget.

📞 Contact DVA Contractor today for your free paving estimate