Asphalt vs. Concrete Driveway

When it comes to installing a driveway, the most pressing question is whether to go with asphalt or concrete. You are looking for the best material for your driveway. Both materials need solid foundations. Though concrete lasts longer, asphalt is less expensive to install but requires more maintenance. Professional asphalt contractors suggest that both materials require solid foundations, because the life of a driveway depends on its foundation.

However, when it comes to choosing the driveway surface, you ought to consider your budget and location. In winter, concrete driveways are exposed to damage if wrong de-icing product is used. Contrarily, asphalt is a better material that flexes and can thus handle temperature fluctuations.

Asphalt or Concrete Driveways

Driveway is the first aesthetic area of your property that visitors tend to notice. The kind of material you use affects both its durability and function.

Concrete Driveways

Cement is mixed with sand and gravel to create concrete, which is a strong, durable material that lasts long. As a result, it requires less maintenance and repair. However, temperature changes can have a significant effect on concrete surfaces. Being an expensive alternative to other types of cementing options, concrete is costly to repair. Though it has a smooth, attractive surface, any crack on concrete surfaces stands out and can cause extensive damage. It requires overhaul or extensive repair, as you can't add a topcoat to the damaged concrete surface.

Concrete driveways do not require sealing to ensure longevity; however, sealed concrete surfaces are less prone to stains and discoloration. Oil-based stains on concrete are hard to remove and require a degreaser. If you have a custom concrete surface, the best way to ensure longevity is regular sealing every few years.

Asphalt Driveways

Cheaper to install compared to concrete, asphalt surfaces require sealing after 6 months or a year. These driveways require regular maintenance and sealing every 2-3 years. With a good base, your asphalt driveway can last more than 30 years.

Though price fluctuations in crude oil can affect the cost of asphalt, it is still lower compared to concrete installations. If done by professional asphalt paving services providers, asphalt driveways can prove to be your best investment.

There are a number of factors that can increase the cost of concrete, including custom texture, pattern, and color choices. A basic concrete driveway is costly due to the construction, rebar, and curing time.

Repairs

Cracks in asphalt surfaces are easier to repair compared to concrete driveways. In fact, any repaired crack on an asphalt driveway easily blends into the original surface, thanks to the nature of asphalt’s tar base. This makes asphalt an attractive choice for driveway that can add enough value and curb appeal to property.

Concrete repairs are more apparent under the impact of weathering, fading, and discoloration. Repairing ensures a long lifespan to concrete. However, it is highly unlikely that the concrete driveway would bear the same charm as the original paved surface. Asphalt surfaces are less likely to crack in colder climates, unlike concrete that comes under the impact of heat and thaw conditions and tends to crack.

If you are considering a paving project for your property, get in touch with expert asphalt contractors that can offer you the best value for your money.