Choosing the right asphalt driveway installation contractor can be one of the most important decisions you make for your Cleveland property. With Northeast Ohio’s harsh winters, freeze-thaw cycles, and demanding climate conditions, your driveway needs expert installation to withstand decades of use. Whether you’re installing a brand-new driveway or replacing an aging surface, this comprehensive guide highlights the top 10 asphalt driveway contractors in Cleveland, OH, and answers the most critical questions homeowners ask.
Why Quality Matters for Cleveland Asphalt Driveways
Before we dive into our top 10 list, it’s important to understand what makes a quality asphalt driveway installation. According to industry data compiled by home improvement experts, asphalt driveway cost in Cleveland, Ohio ranges from $4 to $7 per square foot, making it a significant investment. The right contractor ensures your investment lasts for decades, not just years.
Cleveland’s climate presents unique challenges. Research from pavement specialists indicates that the average lifespan of an asphalt pavement without maintenance in a seasonal climate is 15 years, but with proper installation and care, an asphalt driveway should last 25 to 30 years. The difference lies in choosing experienced contractors who understand local conditions.
Top 10 Asphalt Driveway Installation Contractors in Cleveland, OH
1. Empire Paving – Cleveland’s Premier Asphalt Specialists
Location: Serving Cleveland, Cuyahoga County, Summit County, and Northeast Ohio
Website: www.empirepaving.biz
Empire Paving stands as Cleveland’s top choice for asphalt driveway installation, combining decades of specialized experience with an unwavering commitment to quality. What sets Empire Paving apart is their comprehensive understanding of Northeast Ohio’s challenging climate and their ability to deliver solutions that stand the test of time.
Why Empire Paving Ranks #1:
Extensive Local Experience: Empire Paving has built its reputation on understanding the specific needs of Cleveland properties, from proper drainage solutions to climate-appropriate material selection
Comprehensive Services: Beyond driveway installation, Empire Paving offers asphalt resurfacing, commercial paving, asphalt repair, and parking lot maintenance
Quality Materials: Using commercial-grade asphalt mixes and proper base materials, Empire Paving ensures durability
Full-Service Approach: From initial consultation to sealcoating services and ongoing maintenance, Empire Paving handles every aspect
Wide Service Area: Serving Cleveland, Akron, Parma, Westlake, and surrounding communities
Customer-Focused: Read their testimonials and reviews to see why clients trust Empire Paving
Services Offered:
- New asphalt driveway installation
- Asphalt milling and removal
- Asphalt patching and repairs
- Pavement signage and line striping
- Concrete work and curbing
- Sewer and drainage installation
Ready to get started with Cleveland’s top-rated asphalt contractor? Contact Empire Paving today for a free consultation and discover why they’re the #1 choice for Northeast Ohio homeowners.
2. Holland Paving
Specialty: Residential and commercial asphalt services
Experience: Over 30 years serving Northeast Ohio
Holland Paving has built a strong reputation for quality workmanship and customer service. According to verified customer testimonials, clients praise their professional communication and excellent results, with homeowners noting their satisfaction with newly installed driveways in the Lakewood area.
Key Strengths:
- Specializes in lot milling and resurfacing
- Offers seal coating and striping services
- Commercial maintenance programs
- Family-owned and operated
3. Advanced Asphalt Paving, Inc.
Location: Twinsburg, OH (serving Cleveland area)
Specialty: Commercial and residential paving
With over 30 years of experience, Advanced Asphalt Paving provides full-service concrete and asphalt paving throughout Northeast Ohio. Customer feedback consistently highlights their professional approach and quality results for both repair work and new installations.
Key Services:
- Commercial asphalt paving
- Parking lot paving and repair
- FREE evaluations and estimates
- Catch basin and drainage work
4. DD Mitchell Construction
Specialty: Asphalt driveways, parking lots, and road construction
Focus: Customer satisfaction and quality-first approach
DD Mitchell Construction takes a hands-on approach with owner oversight on every project. They offer cost-effective solutions from concept to completion, utilizing an extensive fleet of modern equipment.
Notable Features:
- Owner present at every project
- Full fleet of equipment (no rentals)
- Pickleball courts and walking paths
- Real-time communication with clients
5. Legacy Paving
Location: Northeast and Central Ohio
Experience: Over 50 years of combined industry experience
Legacy Paving is a family-owned company offering licensed, bonded, and insured services with free estimates. Their decades of combined experience provide clients with confidence in quality results.
Services Include:
- Residential driveway paving
- Commercial parking lots
- Asphalt repairs and seal coating
- Concrete installation
- Drainage solutions
6. The Driveway Kings
Location: Cleveland, Ohio
Phone: 440-271-3045
The Driveway Kings specializes in both residential and commercial concrete and asphalt installation. They’re known for their craftsmanship, reliability, and superior customer service approach.
Specializations:
- High-quality asphalt installation
- Concrete driveways and patios
- Parking lot services
- Driveway replacement
7. Mid-Ohio Asphalt
Specialty: Year-round full-time staffing
Equipment: Company-owned, up-to-date equipment
Mid-Ohio Asphalt maintains complete control over every project since virtually no work is subcontracted, assuring quality control and on-time completion. Customer reviews highlight their professional, courteous workers and high-quality results.
Advantages:
- Full-time year-round staff
- No subcontracting
- Free estimates
- Residential and commercial services
8. Paramount Asphalt
Location: Greater Cleveland area
Phone: (216) 245-5770 / (216) 777-0827
Paramount Asphalt has earned exceptional customer praise for their professionalism and commitment to quality. Long-time customers particularly commend them, noting the owner and crew demonstrate exceptional professionalism, promptness, and commitment to excellent work.
Key Attributes:
- Exceptional customer service
- Professional crew management
- Daily cleanup and attention to detail
- Commercial and residential expertise
9. Ohio Paving & Construction
Service Area: Northeast Ohio
Specialty: Commercial parking lots and asphalt repair
Ohio Paving offers comprehensive asphalt paving services with a focus on commercial properties. They provide free site evaluations and transparent pricing for all projects.
Service Offerings:
- Parking lot construction
- Pothole and crack repair
- Asphalt resurfacing
- Maintenance programs
- Drainage solutions
10. Protect-A-Cote Asphalt Paving
Location: 5801 Harvard Avenue, Cleveland, OH
Specialty: Sealcoating and asphalt maintenance
Protect-A-Cote positions itself as Cleveland’s premier asphalt paving, sealcoating, repair, and resurfacing contractor. They own their equipment and supervise all aspects of contracted work to ensure quality control.
Services:
- Residential driveway installation
- Commercial parking lots
- Sealcoating services
- Curb repair and crack filling
- Line striping
Key Questions to Ask Before Hiring an Asphalt Contractor
What’s the Average Cost of Asphalt Driveway Installation in Cleveland?
For a standard two-car driveway (24 ft x 40 ft), asphalt driveway cost ranges from $3,700 to $6,500. Several factors influence pricing:
Cost Factors:
Size and Thickness: Standard installation uses 2-3 inches of asphalt over a 4-8 inch stone base
Site Preparation: Removal of existing surfaces, grading, and drainage work
Material Quality: Premium polymer-modified mixes cost more but last longer
Accessibility: Difficult access increases labor costs
Permits: City permits and inspections add to the total cost
According to recent 2026 pricing data, basic installation costs approximately $3-$4 per square foot, while complete installations with demolition range from $4-$7 per square foot.
Do I Need a Permit for Driveway Installation in Cleveland?
Yes, you typically need a permit to install a new asphalt driveway in Cleveland. The City of Cleveland Building Department requires permits for new driveway installations or when significantly altering an existing driveway.
Reputable contractors like Empire Paving’s experienced team handle all necessary permitting as part of their comprehensive service. If your property is part of a homeowners association, additional approvals may be required.
How Long Does Installation Take?
Most driveways wrap up in roughly a week. Allow two to three days for installation, followed by an additional two to three days for the surface to cure. The timeline depends on:
- Size of the driveway
- Weather conditions
- Extent of site preparation needed
- Removal of existing surfaces
- Complexity of drainage solutions
What Maintenance Does an Asphalt Driveway Require?
Proper maintenance significantly extends your driveway’s lifespan. Industry research shows that annual or bi-annual sealcoating, along with crack sealing and patching, can extend the overall life of your asphalt driveway by up to 20 years.
Essential Maintenance Schedule:
Sealcoating: Resealing every 2-3 years maximizes your driveway’s lifespan in Cleveland’s climate
Crack Sealing: Address cracks immediately to prevent water infiltration
Cleaning: Regular cleaning removes debris and prevents deterioration
Inspection: Annual professional inspections catch problems early
Empire Paving offers complete maintenance services, including crack and joint fillers, pavement repair materials, and professional sealcoating applications.
What Makes Cleveland’s Climate Challenging for Asphalt?
Northeast Ohio’s weather creates unique challenges for asphalt driveways:
Freeze-Thaw Cycles: Cleveland experiences numerous freeze-thaw cycles each winter. When water penetrates cracks and freezes, it expands, causing progressive damage.
Salt Exposure: Road salt can accelerate deterioration if water penetrates the asphalt surface through cracks or inadequate sealing.
Temperature Extremes: From sub-zero winters to hot, humid summers, Cleveland driveways must withstand significant temperature variations.
Heavy Precipitation: Proper drainage is essential to handle Cleveland’s rainfall and snowmelt.
This is why choosing experienced local contractors matters—they understand these challenges and design solutions accordingly. Learn more about serving the Summit County area and Cuyahoga County.
Essential Qualities of Top Asphalt Contractors
When evaluating contractors, look for these critical qualities:
1. Proper Licensing and Insurance
A reliable asphalt paving contractor should be fully licensed, bonded, and insured. This protects you from liability and ensures the contractor meets state requirements. According to industry best practices established by professional paving organizations, proper credentials demonstrate commitment to quality and professionalism.
2. Local Experience
Contractors with extensive Northeast Ohio experience understand local soil conditions, climate challenges, and building codes. Empire Paving’s deep roots in the region provide this crucial local expertise, serving communities from Beachwood to Cuyahoga Falls.
3. Quality Materials and Equipment
The quality of asphalt and paving materials used impacts the durability of your pavement. Top contractors use commercial-grade materials and maintain their equipment to professional standards. Empire Paving’s use of premium additives and enhancers ensures superior performance.
4. Comprehensive Process
A well-defined process ensures a high-quality and long-lasting pavement, from initial site assessment through final sealcoating. Professional contractors follow industry standards for quality control and acceptance established by organizations like the Ohio Department of Transportation.
5. Transparent Pricing
Beware of quotes significantly lower than competitors—they often indicate cut corners or substandard materials. Quality contractors provide detailed, transparent estimates.
Making Your Final Decision
Selecting the best asphalt driveway contractor requires research, but the investment in quality pays dividends for decades. Here’s your action checklist:
Before Hiring:
- Verify licensing, bonding, and insurance
- Request and check references
- Review past projects and testimonials
- Get multiple detailed estimates
- Ask about warranty coverage
- Confirm they handle permitting
- Discuss maintenance recommendations
Red Flags to Avoid:
- Unusually low bids
- Pressure to sign immediately
- No written contract or warranty
- Cash-only payment requests
- Lack of verifiable references
- No permanent business address
Why Empire Paving Remains Cleveland’s Top Choice
While all the contractors on this list offer quality services, Empire Paving consistently ranks as Cleveland’s premier choice for several reasons:
Comprehensive Expertise: From industrial paving to residential driveways, they handle projects of all scales
Quality Materials: Exclusive use of premium asphalt mixes and additives
Full-Service Provider: Everything from concrete work to sewer installation under one roof
Local Presence: Serving communities throughout Northeast Ohio including Solon, Stow, and Brook Park
Proven Track Record: View their significant projects and customer success stories
Take the Next Step
Your driveway is more than just a place to park—it’s a significant investment in your property’s value, functionality, and curb appeal. Choosing the right contractor ensures your investment delivers decades of reliable service.
Ready to transform your property with a professional asphalt driveway? Contact Empire Paving today for a free consultation. Their team of experts will assess your property, discuss your options, and provide a transparent, detailed estimate tailored to your specific needs.
Visit Empire Paving’s careers page to learn more about their commitment to excellence, explore their portfolio of completed projects, and discover why they’re Northeast Ohio’s most trusted asphalt contractor.
Additional service areas include Brooklyn, Berea, Mayfield, Bedford Heights, Green, Hudson, Richfield, and Twinsburg.
Don’t settle for less than the best—choose Cleveland’s #1 asphalt driveway installation contractor and ensure your investment stands the test of time.
