Are Asphalt Millings or Gravel Better for Driveways?

May 3

If you're considering a new driveway or looking to refresh an old one, you're probably weighing your options: asphalt millings or gravel?

Both are popular, budget-friendly choices here in Alabama, but they each have their pros and cons depending on what you're looking for in terms of cost, durability, maintenance, and appearance.

Let’s break it down.

What Are Asphalt Millings?

Asphalt millings are recycled bits of old asphalt ground down into a gravel-like consistency. They’re typically reclaimed during road resurfacing projects and reused as an alternative to fresh asphalt or stone.

Think of them as the eco-friendly cousin of traditional blacktop — they look similar once compacted and offer some of the same benefits, at a fraction of the cost.

What Is Traditional Gravel?

Gravel is a natural or crushed stone aggregate used for all kinds of surfaces — driveways, pathways, and drainage. It’s usually made of limestone or other types of rock and comes in various sizes and textures.

Gravel’s been a go-to driveway material for decades because it’s easy to install and widely available.

Asphalt Millings vs. Gravel: How Do They Compare?

1. Cost

Winner: Tie
- Both are affordable options, but pricing can vary by region and availability. Millings may cost slightly more than basic gravel, but often less than high-end decorative stone.

2. Appearance

Winner: Asphalt Millings
- Millings create a smoother, darker finish that looks more like traditional pavement. Gravel has a looser, more rustic look — great for country properties, but not always preferred in suburban neighborhoods.

3. Maintenance

Winner: Asphalt Millings
- Once compacted, millings lock together and don’t scatter as easily as gravel. You’ll spend less time raking, re-leveling, or filling in bare spots.
- Gravel can develop ruts or washouts, especially on slopes or in heavy rain.

4. Durability

Winner: Asphalt Millings
- When installed correctly and compacted, millings form a semi-solid surface that resists erosion and holds up well under vehicles.
- Gravel is durable too, but more likely to shift under heavy use.

5. Drainage

Winner: Gravel
- Gravel allows for better drainage, especially in wet or flood-prone areas. Millings can compact so tightly that they become almost impermeable.

So… Which One Should You Choose?

Here’s a quick cheat sheet:

Choose Asphalt Millings If…

You want a low-maintenance surface that looks like asphalt
You need a firmer surface for heavy vehicles
You're looking to recycle and reuse materials

Choose Gravel If…

You prefer a natural, rustic look
Your property gets a lot of rain and needs better drainage
You want the most budget-friendly base material

Need Help Deciding? RCM Has You Covered.

At RCM Alabama, we supply both asphalt millings and a variety of gravel types — and we’ll help you figure out which one is the best fit for your project, your property, and your budget.

Whether you're resurfacing a long rural driveway or installing a parking pad, we've got the materials and local expertise to get the job done right.

Emily Shepherd