Generally speaking, most commercial and residential driveways are either asphalt or concrete. While both are generally considered to be cost-effective, an asphalt driveway does have benefits over concrete. So, if you are paving a new driveway, or replacing an old one, you should consider the advantages of an asphalt driveway over concrete.
1. Installation and Usability – Typically, an asphalt driveway can be installed in just one or two days. On the other hand, concrete can take twice as long to pour and even longer set an harden. So, depending on the size of the project, and asphalt driveway is usable in as little as two days while concrete will take a week or longer.
Additionally, replacing an asphalt driveway is relatively easy compared to concrete. Asphalt resurfacing is very fast when compared to concrete. Moreover, it is a 100% recyclable and rarely ends up in a landfill.
2. Asphalt Provides Durability – Unlike concrete, asphalt does not suffer from surface flaking as a result of poor installation, improper mixing, or the use of salt for melting snow and ice. Surface flaking, called spalling, is a major issue for many concrete driveways, particularly when hurriedly installed. Additionally, since asphalt is flexibility, it is less likely to crack over time.
Concrete is made with cement, crushed rock and sand. When the mix dries, it becomes stiff and hard. Consequently, it is an unforgiving solid. On the other hand, asphalt’s binder is bitumen, which is a sticky substance procured from crude oil. As asphalt sets, it also hardens and becomes strong, but retains some flexibility.
3. Asphalt Has Lower Maintenance Costs – If cracks do ever appear on your asphalt driveway, the repair is typically easy and inexpensive. The crack sealant products needed are widely available and readily found at hardware and home improvement stores. With regular sealcoating, crack filling, and general maintenance, asphalt can outlast concrete.
Even if the repair is more than a simple crack repair, asphalt has the advantage, requiring less time and money. When resurfacing, asphalt will typically involve simply applying new asphalt over the old. The most damaged areas will get filled in with fresh asphalt, and the surface gets smoother over with a steamroller.
What haven’t we covered yet that is important to you? If you would like to talk more about the advantages of an asphalt driveway over concrete, or a related topic, please contact us.