If you're thinking about getting a new driveway, you've probably heard of two options: concrete and asphalt. But what are they? And how do they differ?
When it comes to making that decision, you should consider what's important to you. For example, if you're looking for a long-lasting driveway, then concrete may be the better option. However, if you're looking for something that is less expensive and easier to maintain, then asphalt may be a better choice.
Let's take a closer look at each type of material:
Asphalt is made from petroleum products, which makes it a natural product that's been used as a paving material for centuries. It's a porous material that can absorb water and has excellent drainage capabilities. Asphalt also has good flexibility and is widely available in different grades and compositions, so it can be adapted to almost any climate or application.
Concrete is composed of crushed rock, sand, and gravel bonded together with cement paste. This makes it much harder than asphalt, which is why concrete tends to last longer than asphalt under heavy traffic conditions.
Image by Crescent Custom Homes
Concrete Driveways
Cost: about $5-$7 per square foot
Pros:
- While concrete driveways are more expensive initially than asphalt ones, they're cheaper in the long run due to their lifespan
- Concrete driveways require little upkeep and will last for years
- Longer lifespan especially with proper maintenance
- Can be customized to match your house and style
- Weather resistant
Cons:
- While concrete driveways are more expensive initially than asphalt ones, they're cheaper in the long run because they last longer and require less maintenance.
- Require more preparation work (ex. soil compaction)
Image by The Money Pit
Asphalt Driveways
Cost: about $2-$3 per square foot
Pros:
- Less expensive than concrete; asphalt is more affordable because it's easier to install than
- You don't need to break up the ground before pouring it
- It's more flexible so it can be installed in areas that have slopes or dips in them
- Can also be custom colored to match your house or yard.
Cons:
- They won't last as long as a concrete driveway even with regular maintenance, which means they'll need replacing sooner
- Require more frequent sealing and patching
If you're still unsure which kind of driveway is right for you, talk it over with your contractor! They'll be happy to walk you through all the options available so that you can choose one that fits your needs perfectly.
Glossary
Subgrade - The native soil underneath a driveway, which can affect the driveway's longevity and performance.
Base Material - Layer of material placed on the subgrade to provide stability and support for the driveway.
Compaction - The process of mechanically increasing the density of the asphalt or concrete materials.
Curing - The process in which concrete hardens and gains strength after being poured.
Sealcoating - Application of a protective coating to asphalt-based driveways to extend their life by protecting against water, oils, and U.V. damage.
Flexibility - Asphalt's ability to adapt to temperature changes and underlying movements without cracking.
Durability - Refers to how long a material can last without significant deterioration.
8 comments
Elina Brooks
It’s good that you mentioned how concrete driveways are cheaper in the long run compared to asphalt since they require little upkeep and have longer lifespans. I need a driveway installed on my front lawn soon to welcome the car I plan to buy next month. I’ll be sure to keep this in mind while I look for a residential paving contractor to hire soon for the installation. https://midstateasphalt.com/appleton
Taylor Abrams
You mentioned that asphalt is a natural substance that has been utilized as paving material for ages, and I couldn’t agree more with that statement. Asphalt is manufactured from petroleum products. My mother remarked that her driveway seems to have grown cracks and holes that get worse as the days go by and that she requires paving services. I’ll give her your advice so she may pick an asphalt paving firm for business parking lots that can get the work done correctly the first time. https://www.oregonpavingco.com/asphalt-paving
Charlotte Fleet
My husband and I want to have our driveway paved in the next few weeks to make it easier to drive and walk on. I find it interesting that asphalt pavement is easier to install than concrete which makes it more affordable. We’d like to keep our expenses as low as possible, so we’ll look into hiring an asphalt paving contractor this week. https://www.bennettpavingtn.com/services
Elle Jones
It’s great that you went into more detail about how asphalt is adaptable to almost any climate or application because it is widely available, has good flexibility, and comes in a variety of grades and compositions. My mother mentioned that her driveway appeared to be developing cracks and holes that appeared to deteriorate over time. I advised her to hire an asphalt paving service to take care of the issue. I’ll pass along your suggestions to her so she can choose a paving business that will complete the job correctly the first time. https://ristichasphaltpaving.com/asphalt-paving
Taylor Abrams
It’s interesting to learn about how Concrete is composed of crushed rock, sand, and gravel bonded together with cement paste. This makes it much harder than asphalt, which is why concrete tends to last longer than asphalt under heavy traffic conditions. My best friend ought to hear about this since her house’s driveway could use a makeover after it has seen extreme traffic in the last few years. I’m sure she’ll also want to hear about how concrete is significantly tougher than asphalt as a result, and under conditions of high traffic, it often lasts longer. I just hope she chooses a concrete driveway contractor that will do a good job. https://www.chrisnolteconcreting.com.au/services
Elina Brooks
Thank you for letting us know that while asphalt may be cheaper compared to concrete, it’s also easier to install and a lot more flexible so it can be done in areas that have slopes or dips in them as well. I was wondering how I would get a driveway installed since my residential property has a lot of dips on it. I’ll have to consider getting an asphalt driveway once I find paving contractors to hire soon. https://empireasphalt.ca/residential/
Sam Andrews
Wow, I’m impressed with your explanation of just how economical asphalt is as a paving option. I feel like upgrading the driveway in front of my garage this holiday season. Oh well, time to call a contractor to get the installation job done in no time. http://generalpavingct.com/asphalt-service
Olivia Smart
Thank you for explaining how an asphalt driveway is less expensive than concrete to install. My husband and I need to get our driveway replaced. This seems like it could be a good option for us to look into. https://www.trinitypavingnj.com/paving