If you manage a commercial property in Central Kentucky, paving plays a big role in safety, curb appeal, and the overall function of your site. Whether you’re considering a new installation, resurfacing, or preventative maintenance, one of the first questions that comes up is: What will it cost?
While every project is unique, several core factors determine your final investment. Not every proposal you'll receive is truly apples to apples. Understanding these ahead of time helps property and facility managers plan effectively and avoid unexpected expenses.
5 Key Factors That Influence Commercial Paving Costs
1. Project Size and Scope
Larger paving projects often benefit from economies of scale, which can bring down the average cost per square foot. Smaller projects, however, may carry higher per-unit costs since mobilization, labor, and prep work are spread across fewer square feet.
2. Site Preparation
The amount of work required before paving begins—such as grading, drainage improvements, or base stabilization—has a major impact on cost. Proper prep is critical to ensuring a long-lasting surface, while cutting corners here often leads to premature failure and expensive repairs later.
3. Asphalt Thickness
Commercial lots that support heavy trucks or frequent traffic typically require thicker asphalt layers. While this increases the upfront investment, it significantly improves durability and reduces the need for major repairs down the road.
4. Material Selection
The type of asphalt mix and surface treatment you choose will affect both price and performance. Specialty mixes or premium surface treatments generally cost more initially but can extend service life and reduce long-term maintenance.
5. Location and Accessibility
Job sites in high-traffic areas or those with limited access can increase labor and equipment costs. Projects requiring traffic control or special scheduling to minimize disruption also factor into overall pricing.
Why Proactive Planning Saves Money
It’s tempting to focus only on the initial paving expense, but reactive “wait until it breaks” approaches almost always cost more over time. A proactive maintenance plan—incorporating crack sealing, sealcoating, and timely resurfacing—can:
- Extend the life of your pavement significantly
- Reduce long-term costs compared to reactive repairs
- Prevent disruptive downtime for your business
Partner with APM Paving
For over 40 years, APM has helped property managers across Lexington and Central Kentucky make smart, cost-effective paving decisions. Our Built to Last program provides a clear picture of your pavement’s condition and delivers customized maintenance plans that maximize both durability and value.
If you’d like a free assessment or simply want to talk through your options, our team is ready to help.
