Asphalt Vs. Concrete Driveway: Digging Through The Details For Your Paving Project
When it comes to driveways, one of the biggest decisions you’ll have to make is what material to use. A concrete driveway is a popular option, but many homeowners are also choosing asphalt. So which one is better for your driveway? And how are these materials different from each other?
If you’re looking for more information on this matter, we suggest you continue reading as we’re going to tackle this topic on asphalt vs. concrete driveway: duking out the details for your paving project in today’s article.
Let’s get started…
What Makes An Asphalt Driveway Different From A Concrete Driveway
The main difference between these 2 paving materials is that asphalt is much more flexible than concrete. And that’s because asphalt is made with a petroleum-based material that can be combined with various aggregates to create a surface of varying thicknesses and strengths. While concrete driveways are always made with 4 ingredients: cement, sand, gravel, and water.
One advantage of choosing asphalt material for your driveway project is that it can be installed much faster than concrete. And this is due to the fact that asphalt is applied in layers and can be compacted while it’s being installed. On the other hand, concrete requires curing time for up to several days to reach its maximum strength, which means you can’t use your driveway for many days. And they also require more time to install.
Another advantage of an asphalt driveway is that it is easier to repair than a concrete driveway. If there are cracks or potholes on the surface of the asphalt driveway, they can be filled easily and it will be as good as new again. But with concrete, the entire driveway might have to be replaced, especially if there are major problems, which also requires a hefty amount of money to come out of your pocket.
On the flipside though, asphalt driveways don’t last as long as concrete driveways. In general, an asphalt driveway will last for about 15 to 20 years, while concrete driveway can last even longer for up to 30 to 40 years.
So which is the better choice for your home? It really boils down to your needs and preferences. If you want a driveway that will last a long time, then concrete is the way to go. But if you want a driveway that can be installed quickly and easily, then asphalt might be the better choice.
And if you’re in need of further guidance in choosing the best material for your driveway, don’t hesitate to consult a reliable professional contractor like Yeghoian Asphalt in Apple Valley, CA as they recommended the best paving material for your project.
Which Is More Durable And Flexible
So which one is better for your driveway in terms of durability? Concrete is a popular choice for driveway paving because it is durable and can last for many years. And it is a suitable option if you are expecting to deal with heavy traffic. However, asphalt is also a good choice because it is less expensive, extremely flexible and easy to install. So which one should you choose? Experts say you have to base your decision on these factors when choosing between asphalt and concrete material for your driveway project:
- Cost: Asphalt is typically cheaper than concrete
- Installation: Asphalt is easier to install than concrete
- Durability: Concrete is very durable compared to asphalt
- Maintenance: Asphalt requires less maintenance than concrete
So in terms of durability that will be able to withstand heavy traffic, the practical option is for your paving project is concrete. But if you’re considering the flexibility of the material that can carry the weight of a large or numerous vehicles in front of your home, then asphalt is definitely a good choice.
Which Is More Attractive
Some people might prefer the look of an asphalt driveway, while others prefer the appearance of a concrete driveway. To be specific, some homeowners choose asphalt because it has a more natural appearance, while others go for concrete because it gives off a kind of industrial look to your front yard.
Ultimately, it is up to you to decide which material is more aesthetically pleasing for your driveway and which paving material will best complement with the design of your residence.
What Maintenance Methods Can You Do To Preserve The Look And Functionality Of Your Concrete Or Asphalt Driveway
Asphalt or concrete driveways are major investments for any homeowner. So it’s important to take care of them properly to ensure they last for many years of servicing. Here are some tips for taking care of your asphalt or concrete driveway:
If you have an asphalt driveway, make sure to seal it every few years to protect it from the elements. You should also repair any cracks or potholes as soon as you notice them.
On the other hand, if you have a concrete driveway, you’ll need to regularly sweep it and remove any stains as soon as possible. You may also need to reseal your concrete driveway every few years.
Both asphalt and concrete driveways require some basic maintenance, but asphalt driveways require more frequent sealing and repairs. While concrete driveways are more durable, but they can be more difficult to clean and repair.
Available Methods Of Repair
There are a few different repair methods that can be used for asphalt and concrete driveways. If you have an asphalt driveway, you can opt for a cold patch to fix any cracks or deep impressions. You can also make use of hot patching if the damage is more severe.
For concrete driveways, you can use a concrete sealant to protect it from the elements and fill in any cracks. You can also use a concrete patch to repair any damage. Choose the repair method that is best for the type of damage that you have.
All in all, it’s important to take care of your driveway and repair any damage immediately. By taking care of your driveway, you can extend its lifespan and keep it looking its best.