Question 1

My Livingston driveway has cracks and low spots after this past winter — what is the right fix?

Accepted Answer

It depends on what is happening beneath the surface. Low spots that appeared or deepened over winter are a strong sign of frost heave, which means water was getting into the base layer and freezing. If the cracking is widespread and the surface moves or flexes when walked on, the base has likely been compromised by repeated freeze-thaw cycles working on saturated clay subgrade — that condition calls for full removal and base reconstruction rather than an overlay. Surface-only repairs on a failed base give you a driveway that looks repaired for a season and fails again the following winter. We assess base condition on-site during the estimate and give you a clear answer on which approach is actually warranted.

Question 2

Do I need a permit for driveway paving in Livingston, and who handles that?

Accepted Answer

Repaving your driveway within your own property generally does not require a permit from Livingston Township. However, the apron — the section that crosses the public sidewalk and connects to the curb — sits in the public right-of-way, and a Road Opening Permit from the Township Engineering Office is required before any contractor works in that area. The permit requires proof of insurance, typically a surety deposit, and construction to township spec (the apron cross-section must be at least 6 inches thick where it crosses the sidewalk). Roca handles the permit application, documentation, and builds the apron to code. You do not need to manage that process yourself.

Question 3

What does asphalt paving typically cost in Livingston, NJ?

Accepted Answer

Residential asphalt paving in northern New Jersey currently runs roughly 5 to 9 dollars per square foot installed, with a standard two-car driveway (around 400 to 600 square feet) typically falling between 3,000 and 5,500 dollars depending on site conditions, base requirements, and access. Livingston lots with significant grade changes, poor drainage that requires correction, or tight access around landscaping or existing curbing may fall toward the upper end of that range — those conditions add time and material to the base work. Sealcoating is a separate service and runs 200 to 500 dollars for most driveways. Every job gets a free on-site estimate; we do not quote over the phone because the base condition and site factors are what drive the real number. Call (973) 592-9369 to schedule.