How much for asphalt millings as recycled base in Ottawa?

Asphalt millings in Ottawa typically cost $15 to $25 per tonne delivered, making them an economical option for driveway base material, though they're not suitable as a primary structural base in Ottawa's extreme freeze-thaw climate.

Asphalt millings are recycled asphalt pavement that's been ground up from road reconstruction projects. While significantly cheaper than virgin Granular A base ($22 to $35 per tonne), millings have important limitations for Ottawa driveways. They work well as a supplementary base layer or for temporary access roads, but should not replace properly graded granular base materials for permanent driveway construction.

Ottawa-specific considerations make millings particularly challenging. Our freeze-thaw cycles (50+ per winter) cause millings to shift and settle more than virgin aggregate because the recycled asphalt binder becomes brittle in extreme cold and soft during summer heat. The irregular particle sizes in millings don't compact as uniformly as engineered Granular A base, leading to differential settling that creates low spots and drainage problems.

Best applications for millings in Ottawa include using them as a top layer over proper Granular B and Granular A base for rural driveways, farm lanes, or cottage access roads where some settling is acceptable. They can also work well mixed 50/50 with virgin granular material to reduce costs while maintaining better structural integrity. Some contractors use millings as a sub-base layer beneath proper granular base, though this adds complexity without significant cost savings.

Delivery considerations: Most suppliers require minimum orders of 10 to 15 tonnes (covering roughly 100 to 150 square metres at 100mm depth). Smaller quantities may be available at landscape supply yards for $30 to $40 per tonne in smaller loads.

When to avoid millings entirely: Don't use millings as the primary base for driveways supporting regular vehicle traffic, especially in areas with clay subgrade common throughout Barrhaven, Orleans, and Gloucester. The combination of unstable clay soil and non-engineered millings creates a recipe for significant heaving and settling within the first winter.

For a permanent driveway base in Ottawa, invest in proper Granular B sub-base (300mm minimum) and Granular A base (150mm minimum) that meet MTO specifications. The extra cost of engineered aggregate pays for itself by preventing premature failure and expensive reconstruction.

Need help finding a contractor who understands proper base preparation for Ottawa's climate? Ottawa Driveways can match you with experienced local paving professionals.