The Short Answer: 2026 Wisconsin Asphalt Paving Costs
For homeowners in Portage, Madison, and throughout Central Wisconsin, the average cost to install a new asphalt driveway generally falls into the following range:
New Asphalt Driveway Installation Cost (WI Average):
$7.00 to $13.00 per square foot.
For a typical two-car asphalt driveway (approx. 600 sq. ft.), this translates to a project cost between $4,200 and $7,800.
The price per square foot is determined by whether the project is a full replacement, a new installation, or an overlay. The final cost of your asphalt project will depend heavily on the factors detailed below.
Cost Breakdown by Project Type
To get a more precise estimate for your budget, first determine the scope of work required.
| Project Type | Average Cost per Square Foot | What it Includes |
| Full New Installation | $7.00 – $13.00 | Excavation, base preparation (gravel and grading), and laying 2–3 inches of new hot-mix asphalt. |
| Full Replacement | $8.00 – $15.00 | Demolition, removal, and disposal of the old driveway, plus all steps of a new installation. |
| Asphalt Overlay | $3.00 – $7.00 | Cleaning and patching the existing surface, then applying a single layer of new asphalt over the old. (Only possible if the existing foundation is stable.) |
5 Key Factors That Determine Your Final Driveway Cost
No two paving jobs are exactly alike, especially with the unique climate and soil conditions in Wisconsin. A professional paving contractor like Davis Construction must account for five critical factors before providing a firm quote.
1. Project Size & Shape
- Square Footage: This is the most significant cost driver. The total price increases with size, but the price per square foot often decreases slightly on larger jobs due to economies of scale.
- Complexity: Curved or unusually shaped driveways require more labor and specialized paving equipment time compared to straight, rectangular driveways.
2. Site Preparation & Foundation Condition
This is arguably the most crucial factor in Wisconsin, where the freeze-thaw cycle is extreme. A high-quality base is essential.
- Existing Material Removal: If an old driveway (asphalt or concrete) needs to be removed and hauled away, expect an additional $1 to $2 per square foot for demolition and disposal.
- Grading and Base: Proper excavation and grading are necessary to ensure water drains away from your home. If your existing sub-base is unstable or requires a deeper layer of crushed stone (gravel) for better drainage, this will increase the time and material costs.
3. Asphalt Thickness
The driveway’s intended use dictates the thickness. While 2 to 3 inches is standard for residential use, thicker asphalt requires more material, increasing cost but boosting durability.
- Standard Driveway: Typically 2-3 inches of compacted asphalt.
- Heavy-Duty: Driveways or lanes supporting heavy RVs, trucks, or equipment may need a 4-inch-thick layer to prevent rutting and premature failure.
4. Material Quality & Transport
- Hot Mix Asphalt (HMA): The standard, durable material used in new construction. Its price fluctuates with global crude oil prices.
- Distance to the Hot Plant: Since asphalt must be laid while hot, paving contractors near the source of the mix (the plant) often have slightly lower material transport costs, which can be passed on to the customer.
5. Additional Features
Specialized finishes and add-ons will raise the price but can add value and longevity:
- Decorative Finishes: Stamped, textured, or colored asphalt for a custom look can add significant cost per square foot.
- Drainage Solutions: Installing culverts, French drains, or new apron tie-ins to public roads may require permits and specialized work.
Why Choose Davis Construction Co.? (Portage, WI)
Choosing a local contractor that understands the Wisconsin climate is the best way to ensure your investment lasts its full 20–30 year lifespan.
Davis Construction Co. specializes in blacktop and asphalt paving across the Portage and Central Wisconsin area. We know that in a region with heavy snowfall and severe freeze-thaw cycles, proper sub-base preparation and drainage are non-negotiable—they are the most important elements of a long-lasting driveway.
Ready to start your project? Contact Davis Construction today for an accurate, on-site quote based on your specific property needs.
