Asphalt vs. Concrete Driveway – Which is the Better Option?

When it comes to building a new home or just renovating some aspects of your current home, using the right driveway material is crucial. Two vital paving materials can be used; concrete or asphalt. However, you have to learn about the differences between the two, which will last longer and will be more expensive to install? Asphalt and concrete can vary in many ways, but they also have some similarities. Both materials are made with stone and sand, and the only dissimilarity is the adhesive materials.

Advantages of Asphalt over Concrete Driveways

Cost-effectiveness

Many people think that asphalt is way expensive than concrete because it is a more modern paving material. But, you will be astonished that an asphalt application is even less costly than a concrete job. In many cases, the price of a basic asphalt driveway, including its installation, is about half the price of a concrete driveway. Keep in mind that the rates can differ with the variation in crude oil prices; however, it will always stay in a particular range.

Fast installation and usability

Asphalt paving is the best option if you want to have a driveway that should be used as soon as possible. Typically, it takes a day or two to lay an asphalt driveway; while on the other hand, you will have to wait until one week to start using your concrete driveway. The long curing period of the concrete driveway is usually due to the fresh concrete’s high moisture content.

Maintenance

Both asphalt and concrete driveways can crack over time. Asphalt tends to deteriorate fast, especially in hot climates due to its soft consistency. However, it is easier to repair cracks and damages in an asphalt driveway than in concrete driveways. Concrete is harder to repair, and fixed spots are generally visible unless you plan to rematerialize the whole driveway again. Additionally, during winter, an asphalt driveway will help you out a little. Asphalt driveways can absorb heat and melt ice more quickly than the concrete driveway.

Aesthetics

The paving material plays an important role when it comes to enhancing the look of your driveway. When compared to concrete driveways, asphalt paving tends to retrain its dark grey color that gives your driveway an appealing look. Asphalt driveways come with various shades and finishes; therefore, you can choose an option that suits your needs and gives you the type of appearance you are looking for. You can also decide to go for finishes that make the driveway more slip-resistant and offer more grip for your family and visitors.

Durability

Asphalt driveways can last longer when taken good care of. Typically, an asphalt driveway can last between 12 to 20 years. The precise amount of time will be subject to factors like installation quality, weather, maintenance, and usage. But in general, an asphalt driveway can last longer than expected before any repair.

Final Word

When it comes to resilience, safety, and upkeep, an asphalt paving is the best option for the construction of your driveway. The above reasons why you might choose asphalt driveways is enough. They are beautiful and are suitable for both homes and commercial properties. You can request a contact-free estimate today on  Black Tar if you are interested in having asphalt paving applied to your driveway.