Asphalt vs Concrete Driveways

​Concrete vs. Asphalt Driveways

The most popular materials used to pave driveways are asphalt and concrete. Asphalt and concrete driveways each have their own set of advantages. If you live in a cold climate and want to put in a concrete driveway, make sure the base is covered in gravel and compacted first. Otherwise, frost heaves may cause the driveway to fracture and shatter. Furthermore, salt corrosion is a problem for concrete, which is often used on roadways in cold weather areas of the country. However, if you live in a warm or hot climate and are considering asphalt paving, keep in mind that asphalt can soften in the sun and become rut-prone.

Concrete driveways are more expensive to install than asphalt driveways. Asphalt paved driveways, on the other hand, necessitate a lot more upkeep over time in order to remain safe. Asphalt driveways should be sealed at least once every 3-5 years. Although a do-it-yourself homeowner may complete each sealing on their own, it will cost them money and effort. Furthermore, before a car may be parked on the sealer, it must dry for at least two days. A newly asphalted driveway should also not be sealed for at least 6-9 months, since the light oils associated with the asphalt must first evaporate. An asphalt driveway that is sealed too soon will remain soft eternally.

Asphalt driveways do not always have to be black, and concrete driveways do not always have to be off-white. Asphalt and concrete driveways can be painted in a variety of colors. First, inquire about the color possibilities for your driveway project with any potential paving companies.

If properly maintained, asphalt driveways can last for 25 to 30 years. Driveways made of concrete have the potential to last even longer. Both, however, require the building of a solid foundation. If not laid on a solid foundation, both will crack with time, especially in colder climates. Asphalt cracks are easier to repair than concrete driveway fractures.

The slope of the driveway should also be considered when contemplating concrete driveways. Over time, concrete driveways can separate from the base they are laid on, resulting in unattractive cracks.