How much is a yard of asphalt? A cubic yard of asphalt typically costs between $100 and $200 or more. This price can change a lot. It depends on many things. A cubic yard of asphalt is very heavy. It usually weighs about 2 tons or sometimes a bit more. So, asking about the cost per yard is like asking about the asphalt cost per ton, as they are closely related.
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Figuring Out Asphalt Prices
Knowing the cost of asphalt is the first step for any paving job. Asphalt is used for driveways, roads, and parking lots. Its price is not fixed. Many things make the price go up or down. These include where you live, the type of asphalt mix, and how much you buy.
What Changes the Price of Asphalt?
Many things affect how much you pay for asphalt. It helps to know these things.
Location Matters
Where you get asphalt makes a big difference in the price.
Prices are higher in some areas than others.
This is because of local supply and demand.
It also depends on how far the asphalt has to travel.
Oil Prices Play a Role
Asphalt is made from oil.
So, when oil prices go up, asphalt prices usually go up too.
This is a big reason why asphalt costs change over time.
Keep an eye on hot mix asphalt price trends linked to oil.
Type of Asphalt Mix
There are different kinds of asphalt mixes.
Some mixes are stronger or last longer.
They might cost more.
Basic hot mix asphalt is common and has a standard price.
Special mixes, like those with polymers, cost more.
How Much Asphalt You Need
The total amount of asphalt you buy affects the price per unit.
Buying a lot usually means a lower price per ton or yard.
This is called getting bulk asphalt prices.
Buying small amounts might cost more per unit.
Suppliers might also have a minimum asphalt order amount.
Time of Year
Asphalt plants often close in the winter.
This is because they need warm weather to make and lay hot mix asphalt.
Prices might change with the seasons.
Demand is higher in spring and summer.
How Asphalt Is Sold
Asphalt is usually sold by the ton or by the cubic yard.
Knowing the link between these two units is helpful.
Asphalt Cost Per Ton Explained
Most asphalt plants sell asphalt by weight.
They measure it in tons.
The asphalt cost per ton is the standard way to see the price.
This price can range from $50 to $150 or more per ton.
It depends on the factors we talked about.
Understanding Cubic Yard Asphalt Weight
A cubic yard of asphalt is a volume.
A ton is a weight.
These two are connected by density.
One cubic yard of hot mix asphalt usually weighs about 2 tons.
Sometimes it can be closer to 2.2 tons.
This weight can vary based on the mix type and how packed it is.
So, if a ton costs $100, a cubic yard might cost $200 to $220.
Table: Estimated Weight and Cost Conversion
| Unit | Approx. Weight (Tons) | Estimated Cost Range (Based on $50-$150/ton) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Ton | 1 | $50 – $150 |
| 1 Cubic Yard | 2 – 2.2 | $100 – $330 |
Note: These are just rough estimates. Actual prices vary greatly.
Figuring Out How Much Asphalt You Need
It is important to know how much material you need.
You buy asphalt by the ton or yard.
But you think about your project in square feet or square yards.
You also think about how deep the asphalt layer will be.
Using an Asphalt Quantity Calculator
To find out how much asphalt you need, you can use a tool.
This tool is often called an asphalt quantity calculator.
You put in the size of your area.
This is usually the length and width in feet.
You also put in the depth you want in inches.
How a Calculator Works Simply
- Measure the length and width of your area in feet.
- Multiply length by width to get the area in square feet.
- Measure the depth you want in inches.
- The calculator uses these numbers.
- It figures out the total volume in cubic feet.
- Then, it changes cubic feet into cubic yards. (1 cubic yard = 27 cubic feet).
- Finally, it uses the weight per cubic yard (about 2 tons) to tell you how many tons you need.
Example Calculation Idea
Let’s say you have a driveway that is 50 feet long and 10 feet wide.
You want the asphalt to be 2 inches deep.
Area = 50 ft * 10 ft = 500 square feet.
Convert depth to feet: 2 inches = 2/12 feet = 0.1667 feet.
Volume = 500 sq ft * 0.1667 ft = 83.35 cubic feet.
Convert to cubic yards: 83.35 cubic feet / 27 cubic feet/yard = 3.09 cubic yards.
Estimate tons needed: 3.09 cubic yards * 2 tons/yard = 6.18 tons.
You would likely round up to buy 6.5 or 7 tons to be safe.
An asphalt quantity calculator does this math for you.
Using one helps you order the right amount.
Ordering too little means delays and extra delivery costs.
Ordering too much is a waste of money.
Asphalt Delivery Cost
Getting the asphalt to your job site costs extra.
This is the asphalt delivery cost.
It is added to the price of the asphalt itself.
What Affects Delivery Cost
- Distance: How far is the asphalt plant from your site? The farther it is, the more it costs.
- Quantity: Delivering more asphalt in one trip is cheaper per ton than multiple small trips. Truck capacity matters.
- Truck Type: Different trucks carry different amounts. Larger trucks might have a higher base cost but carry more tonnage.
- Time: Waiting time at the site can sometimes add to the cost.
- Minimum Fees: There might be a minimum delivery fee, even for small orders.
Estimating Delivery Cost
Delivery costs can range from $50 to several hundred dollars per load.
Some companies charge a flat fee per load.
Others charge based on distance or time.
Ask your supplier about their specific asphalt delivery cost structure.
The Full Cost: Material vs. Installed
When you plan a paving project, you need to think about the total cost.
This includes the asphalt material and the work to put it down.
Asphalt Paving Cost Per Square Foot (Material Only)
If you buy the asphalt yourself and plan to lay it, you only pay for the material and delivery.
To get the material cost per square foot:
1. Figure out how many tons you need for your area and depth.
2. Get the price per ton (including delivery).
3. Divide the total material cost by the total square footage of your area.
Example: Material Cost Per Square Foot
Let’s use the 500 sq ft driveway example (6.5 tons needed).
Assume asphalt price is $100/ton and delivery is $200 for the load.
Material cost = 6.5 tons * $100/ton = $650.
Total material + delivery = $650 + $200 = $850.
Material cost per square foot = $850 / 500 sq ft = $1.70 per square foot.
This is just the cost of the asphalt on the ground.
It does not include labor, tools, or base preparation.
Asphalt Paving Cost Per Square Foot (Installed)
Most people hire a contractor to do the paving work.
This is the driveway paving cost when hiring a pro.
This cost includes:
* Preparing the ground (removing old material, grading, compacting base).
* The asphalt material.
* Delivering the asphalt.
* Laying and compacting the hot mix asphalt.
* Labor for the crew.
* Equipment costs (pavers, rollers, trucks).
Estimating Installed Cost
The asphalt paving cost per square foot when installed is much higher than just the material cost.
It typically ranges from $3 to $7 or more per square foot.
Again, this price depends on:
* The size of the job (smaller jobs often cost more per square foot).
* How much preparation is needed.
* The depth of the asphalt layer.
* Where you live.
* The specific asphalt contractor cost.
Table: Estimated Paving Costs
| Item | Unit | Estimated Range |
|---|---|---|
| Asphalt Material (Hot Mix) | Per Ton | $50 – $150+ |
| Asphalt Material (Hot Mix) | Per Cubic Yard | $100 – $330+ (Approx. 2-2.2 tons) |
| Asphalt Delivery | Per Load/Job | $50 – $500+ |
| Paving (Installed) | Per Square Foot | $3 – $7+ |
| Paving (Installed) | Per Square Yard | $27 – $63+ (1 sq yd = 9 sq ft) |
Note: These are just averages. Get quotes for your specific project.
Asphalt Contractor Cost
Hiring a professional asphalt contractor is a good choice for most paving jobs.
They have the right tools, skills, and experience.
The asphalt contractor cost is a big part of the total paving price.
What Goes into Contractor Cost
- Labor: The wages for the paving crew.
- Equipment: The cost to own, run, and move heavy machines (pavers, rollers, trucks).
- Materials: They buy the asphalt, base stone, etc. They usually get bulk asphalt prices from suppliers.
- Overhead: Business costs like insurance, office, and permits.
- Profit: The amount the contractor makes on the job.
Getting Bids from Contractors
It is wise to get bids from several different contractors.
This helps you compare prices and services.
Make sure each bid includes the same things.
Ask about:
* Preparation work (how they will prep the base).
* Depth of asphalt.
* Type of asphalt mix.
* Timeline for the work.
* Warranty or guarantee on their work.
A cheap bid might mean less experience or lower quality materials/work.
A higher bid might mean more experience, better materials, or more prep work included.
Do your research on the contractor’s reputation.
Buying Asphalt: Things to Think About
If you decide to buy asphalt yourself (maybe for a small patch or repair), there are things to know.
Bulk Asphalt Prices
Asphalt plants often sell in bulk.
This means buying by the ton.
The price per ton is usually lower if you buy many tons.
Check the bulk asphalt prices at local plants.
Minimum Asphalt Order
Asphalt plants make hot mix asphalt in large batches.
They have minimum amounts you must buy.
This is their minimum asphalt order.
It is often 1 ton or more.
You usually cannot buy just a bucket of hot asphalt.
For very small jobs, other products like cold patch asphalt might be better.
Hot Mix Asphalt Price
Hot mix asphalt is the most common type for laying new pavement.
It is made at very high temperatures (around 300°F).
It must be laid and compacted while it is still hot.
The hot mix asphalt price can change daily based on oil prices.
Check the current price before you plan to pick it up or have it delivered.
Planning Your Paving Project
Having a clear plan helps you budget correctly.
1. Measure Your Area
Get the exact size of the area you want to pave.
Measure length and width.
Figure out the square footage.
2. Decide on Depth
How thick should the asphalt be?
A driveway usually needs 2-3 inches of asphalt on top of a good base.
A parking lot for heavy trucks needs more.
A walkway might need less.
Check local building codes or ask a pro for advice on the right depth.
3. Calculate Quantity
Use an asphalt quantity calculator.
Put in your area and depth.
Find out how many tons or cubic yards you need.
Remember that a cubic yard asphalt weight is about 2 tons.
4. Get Price Quotes
If buying material only:
* Call local asphalt plants for the current asphalt cost per ton or yard.
* Ask about their minimum asphalt order.
* Ask about asphalt delivery cost to your site for the amount you need.
If hiring a contractor:
* Get detailed quotes from several contractors.
* Compare their driveway paving cost per square foot.
* Make sure the quotes include the full job: prep, material, labor, cleanup.
5. Consider Other Costs
- Base material: You might need gravel or crushed stone for the base layer. This is an extra cost.
- Prep work: Removing old pavement or grading the ground costs money.
- Drainage: You might need drainage pipes or slopes, which add to the cost.
- Permits: Some areas require permits for paving work.
Deciphering Cost Factors
Let’s break down some factors in simple terms.
Size of the Job
Small jobs cost more per square foot.
Why? Contractors have fixed costs like moving equipment and setting up.
These costs are spread over a smaller area on a small job.
A very large parking lot will likely have a lower asphalt paving cost per square foot than a small home driveway.
Shape of the Area
Simple shapes (squares, rectangles) are easier and cheaper to pave.
Complex shapes, curves, or tight spots take more time and effort.
This can increase the labor cost and overall price.
Site Access
Is it easy for large trucks and paving machines to get to your site?
Tight spaces, steep hills, or obstacles make the job harder.
This can increase the asphalt contractor cost.
Condition of the Base
A strong, stable base is key for a long-lasting asphalt surface.
If your current base is weak or needs a lot of repair or new stone, it adds cost.
A contractor might charge more for extra base work.
Asphalt Layer Thickness
A thicker layer of asphalt uses more material.
More material means higher asphalt cost per ton or yard.
It also takes more effort to lay and compact.
So, a 3-inch layer costs more per square foot than a 2-inch layer.
Hot Mix Asphalt Price Details
Hot mix asphalt is the most common type for new paving.
It is a mix of asphalt cement (the sticky black part made from oil) and crushed stone or gravel.
It must be heated to very high temperatures to be workable.
The hot mix asphalt price is what you get from the plant.
Why is it Hot?
Heating makes the asphalt cement soft and sticky.
This allows the stone and gravel to mix together well.
It also allows the mix to be spread evenly and compacted tightly.
When it cools, it becomes hard and strong.
Working Time
Hot mix asphalt cools quickly.
It needs to be hauled, laid, and compacted fast.
This is why paving crews work quickly once the material arrives.
Distance from the plant affects how much time they have to work with it before it cools too much.
Comprehending Bulk Asphalt Prices
Buying asphalt in bulk is like buying anything else in bulk.
You get a better price per unit.
Asphalt plants prefer to sell in full truckloads.
A standard dump truck might carry 10-15 tons.
Larger trucks can carry 20 tons or more.
Savings with Bulk
If you need a large amount, always ask for bulk asphalt prices.
The price break might start after 10 tons, 20 tons, or more, depending on the supplier.
This is usually only practical for bigger projects or if you are a contractor.
Minimum Asphalt Order Explained
As mentioned, asphalt plants have minimum order amounts.
This is because starting the plant to make a small amount is not cost-effective.
They make batches of hot mix.
Their minimum order might be 1 ton, 2 tons, or even a full truckload.
If you only need a very small amount, you might have trouble buying hot mix.
You might need to find a supplier who sells cold patch asphalt in bags or small containers for repairs.
But cold patch is not the same quality as hot mix for laying new pavement.
Asphalt Delivery Cost – Getting it There
Delivery is a key part of the cost.
Asphalt needs special trucks.
They are insulated to keep the asphalt hot during transport.
The farther the truck travels, the more fuel and driver time it uses.
This is why distance is the biggest factor in asphalt delivery cost.
Planning Delivery
Coordinate delivery time carefully with your paving crew (if doing it yourself) or contractor.
The asphalt must arrive when you are ready to lay it.
If the truck has to wait too long, the asphalt can cool down.
Waiting can also add to the delivery cost.
Keeping Track of Quantity: Asphalt Quantity Calculator Use Cases
The asphalt quantity calculator is not just for budgeting.
It helps with ordering correctly.
It helps with planning the work.
Knowing how much material is coming helps the crew get ready.
It ensures you have enough to finish the job without stopping for more.
Using the calculator helps avoid costly mistakes in ordering.
Why Accuracy Matters
Getting the dimensions right is key.
If you measure wrong, your calculator results will be wrong.
Double-check your measurements before using the calculator.
Also, consider a little extra for waste or variations in depth. Ordering 5-10% extra is often a good idea.
Grasping Asphalt Paving Cost Per Square Foot
This is the most common way people look at the price of a finished paving job.
It makes it easy to compare bids from different contractors.
Just remember that a lower price per square foot might mean less work is included.
For example, one contractor might include removing 4 inches of old material and laying a new stone base.
Another might just pave over the existing surface.
The first one will cost more per square foot but might last much longer.
What is Included?
When comparing bids based on asphalt paving cost per square foot, check if it covers:
* Removing old pavement?
* Fixing or replacing the base layer?
* Compacting the base?
* Providing the asphalt material?
* Laying and compacting the asphalt?
* Cleanup?
Make sure you are comparing similar scopes of work.
Dive into Driveway Paving Cost
Driveway paving cost is a common use case for understanding asphalt prices.
Driveways vary a lot in size and shape.
The cost depends on the square footage and the depth.
It also depends heavily on the asphalt contractor cost.
DIY vs. Hiring a Pro
Can you pave your own driveway?
It is possible for small patch jobs or overlays.
But for a new driveway from scratch, it is very hard without special tools and skills.
Hot mix asphalt is hard to work with. It is hot and heavy.
You need a roller to compact it correctly.
Hiring an asphalt contractor is usually the best way to get a good result for a driveway.
Their asphalt contractor cost includes all the specialized work.
Factors Specific to Driveways
- Size: Smaller driveways have a higher cost per square foot.
- Length: Long driveways use a lot of material, increasing asphalt cost per ton needed.
- Slope: Steep driveways are harder to pave and can cost more.
- Tie-in: Connecting the driveway to the street needs care and can add cost.
Hot Mix Asphalt Price and Quality
The quality of the hot mix asphalt matters.
Not all mixes are the same.
The asphalt plant follows specific mix designs.
These designs are often set by local or state road agencies.
A good mix design uses the right amount of asphalt cement and the right size stones.
Using the correct hot mix asphalt price from a reputable supplier helps ensure you get a good quality mix.
Cubic Yard Asphalt Weight and Ordering
Remember that relationship: 1 cubic yard is about 2 tons.
When you order from a plant, they usually ask for tons.
So, use your asphalt quantity calculator to find tons needed.
Do not just guess based on cubic yards unless the plant specifically sells that way.
Knowing the cubic yard asphalt weight helps you double-check estimates.
If someone says you need 10 cubic yards for a small area, and that equals about 20-22 tons, does that sound right? It might be too much.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How much asphalt do I need for a standard driveway?
A standard 2-car driveway (like 20ft x 40ft) paved 2 inches deep needs about 7-8 tons of asphalt. Using an asphalt quantity calculator is the best way to figure out your exact needs based on your specific size and depth.
What is the average asphalt paving cost per square foot?
For professional installation, the average asphalt paving cost per square foot is typically $3 to $7. This includes materials, labor, and basic prep work. Complex jobs or specific locations might be higher.
Is it cheaper to buy asphalt by the ton or cubic yard?
Suppliers usually price by the ton. A cubic yard of asphalt weighs about 2 tons. So, the price per cubic yard will be roughly double the price per ton. The unit does not change the underlying cost of the material itself, just how it’s measured and priced.
What is a typical minimum asphalt order from a plant?
Most asphalt plants have a minimum asphalt order, often 1 ton or 2 tons. Some might require buying a full truckload. This depends on the plant and its operations.
How much does asphalt delivery cost?
Asphalt delivery cost varies greatly based on distance and quantity. It can range from $50 for a short trip with a full load to several hundred dollars for longer distances or smaller, less efficient deliveries.
Does the hot mix asphalt price change often?
Yes, the hot mix asphalt price can change frequently, sometimes even daily. This is mainly due to changes in the price of oil, which is a key ingredient in asphalt. Always get a current price quote when you are ready to buy.
What is the difference between asphalt cost per ton and asphalt contractor cost?
Asphalt cost per ton is just the price of the material itself at the plant. Asphalt contractor cost includes the material plus all the labor, equipment, preparation work, delivery, and overhead needed to install the asphalt pavement correctly.
Can I save money by doing the asphalt paving myself?
For small repairs or sealing, yes. For laying a new asphalt surface, it is generally not recommended for homeowners. You need special equipment (paver, roller), skill, and the ability to handle hot, heavy material quickly. The cost of renting equipment and the risk of a poor result often outweigh the savings on asphalt contractor cost.
What is the cubic yard asphalt weight?
One cubic yard of hot mix asphalt typically weighs between 2.0 and 2.2 tons. This weight can vary slightly depending on the specific mix design.
How do I estimate the total driveway paving cost?
First, get the dimensions of your driveway. Use an asphalt quantity calculator to estimate the tons of asphalt needed. Get quotes for the asphalt cost per ton and asphalt delivery cost if buying yourself, or get comprehensive bids from asphalt contractors for the full driveway paving cost per square foot. Remember to budget for base materials or extra prep work if needed.
Wrapping Up
Finding the current price for a yard of asphalt means looking at the asphalt cost per ton, which is how it’s usually sold. A cubic yard weighs about 2 tons. The final price you pay depends on many things. These include location, oil prices, the type of mix (hot mix asphalt price), and the amount you need (bulk asphalt prices). You also need to think about asphalt delivery cost. For paving jobs, the total driveway paving cost or asphalt paving cost per square foot includes material, labor, and equipment (asphalt contractor cost). Using an asphalt quantity calculator helps you figure out how much material you need, keeping in mind the cubic yard asphalt weight. Always check for minimum asphalt order requirements and get current quotes for the best price. Knowing these details helps you plan your project and budget better.