Great Lakes Asphalt Paving & Sealcoating

Asphalt Millings vs Gravel. Which One is Right For You?

Asphalt Millings vs Gravel

Are you confused about what material to choose for your driveway? Worry no more as we will make the decision easy for you. The best way is to look at the pros and cons of each material.

Knowing the advantages and disadvantages of each will allow you to compare both of them side by side. This thorough comparison will help you to make the best decision as per your situation, location, and needs. 

So, without further ado, let’s start with our asphalt millings vs gravel discussion. 

Asphalt Millings

Asphalt milling is recycled asphalt. Over time asphalt pavements lose their strength and start to wear. Such pavements and roads are then removed and recycled. The removed asphalt is cleaned of any dirt and debris. It is then broken down into small asphalt millings to be used elsewhere. 

Pros

Affordable Option

These millings are recycled and thus are very affordable. The prices can vary drastically depending on various factors. The manufacturer can use different sorts of asphalts to create the millings. Things like how old it is, and what other materials are used, determine the final price of the product.

These millings are eco-friendly

Their recycled nature makes them an ideal choice if you want an eco-friendly option. Massive amounts of resources and funds are saved annually by using recycled asphalt millings. Also, the majority of the millings available in the market are made from recycled material.

It’s durable

It’s not as durable as fresh asphalt but it is still one of the most durable and weather-resistant materials available on the market. 

Hardens over time

It hardens over time which increases the lifespan of the material. This self-hardening property is especially useful in areas with brittle earth. With regular foot traffic and vehicle traffic, the millings get compacted together. It strengthens the material to a certain extent. 

Easy to Install

These are easy and simple to install. All you have to do is lay it out on a clean surface. You can use some compacting tools to set it in its place. This easy and simple process also makes it a quick solution to cover your driveways or other areas.

Cons

No consistent quality

These millings are prepared by recycling asphalt from different places. The quality of the millings is dependent on the quality of the asphalt that is being recycled. There’s no way to check what type of asphalt is being processed. Sometimes a manufacturer will receive a 30-year-old asphalt and sometimes they will receive a 5-year-old asphalt. 

This inconsistency in raw material also results in an inconsistent quality of the final product. 

Maybe contaminated

As it comes from different areas, there is no way to be 100% sure that it is not contaminated. These millings are checked for visible debris or other particles but a thorough examination is not possible. Also, 

Bad aesthetics

These don’t give the look of gravel, stones, cement pavement, or even the actual asphalt pavement itself. These millings have their distinct black look which is not pleasing at all. This is one of the most common reasons people tend to avoid these millings. 

Gravel

Gravel has been used for many years in driveways, sidewalks, and many other places. These are small rock pieces and pebbles. These are found naturally or are prepared by crushing large pieces of rocks into smaller pieces. Gravel comes in different types and sizes to suit different purposes. 

Pros

More economical

All you are adding is just pieces of rocks on the floor. The simplicity and availability of the raw material make it cheap. That doesn’t mean that there aren’t expensive gravels in the market. 

Some manufacturers offer specially prepared gravel that can be more expensive than average asphalt milling.

Excellent water drainage

These are excellent when it comes to water drainage. Also, the water that is drained from them goes directly back into the earth. This makes it very good for maintaining the underground water level. 

Traction in wet climate

It provides very good grip and traction in wet and humid climates. You will be able to effortlessly drive on these without the chance of slipping. Also, it’s almost impossible to slip on these even while walking with slippery slippers or sandals. 

Easy to repair

There’s not much maintenance required for gravel driveways. These are not compacted and set into place as the millings are. This might require you to often pick up a shovel and put the small rocks back in.

On-spot quick installation

You don’t have to wait for it to settle. You just put the gravel at a place, level it out and you have a driveway. The little compacting that it may require will be done automatically by driving and walking over it. 

Cons

Has to be maintained and contained

You will have to maintain it regularly. Ediginin is recommended to make sure that it doesn’t wash away and is contained in the area where it’s needed. 

Potholes

It easily gets potholes. You will find yourself driving one frequently. However, it is very easy to fill it. Just put the gravel back where it belongs or add some extra gravel. 

Grass and other vegetation can grow

The gravel will collect mud, and dirt and create soil of its own. Weed, grass, and other small plantations can grow in the gravel which can be difficult to remove.

Not very stable

It’s loose and not held in place properly. It can be unstable sometimes. 

Conclusion

Both of these are very good materials for your driveway and other areas. It all depends on location, use case,  budget, and requirements. If you want to have a more stable ground to walk on and drive, then asphalt will be better for you. If you want functionality with looks, then gravel will be the best option for you.

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