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For many people, concrete and asphalt may as well be interchangeable when it comes to installing a new driveway. One is just as good as the next when it comes to the surface you’ll park your cars on, right? Both tend to be more durable and functional than alternatives like gravel or pavers. So, what makes one better than the other? How can you choose between concrete and asphalt?
As it turns out, asphalt is actually a better option for a number of reasons. While concrete may be preferable for certain surfaces, your driveway will benefit immensely from the use of asphalt. Here’s what you stand to gain when you choose asphalt over concrete.
Convenience
Installing a new driveway can be a pain, especially if street parking is scarce and/or access to your home is via the driveway or garage. In this instance, asphalt is far superior to concrete. Asphalt surfaces can not only be torn up quickly with the right equipment, but they can also be replaced and ready to use in a flash. Whereas concrete surfaces could take several days to cure before they’re ready for use, and they could become marred or damaged during that time, an asphalt surface hardens in mere hours and is ready for use the next day (or even same day, in some cases).
Cost
There’s just no denying that asphalt is cheaper to install than concrete. Some say concrete is worth the added cost because it lasts longer, but this simply may not be true. When asphalt is properly installed, a schedule of maintenance is followed, and needed repairs are made early, before additional damage can be done, asphalt could last just as long as concrete at less overall cost. In addition, asphalt can be repaved to extend its life. When concrete is damaged, it often has to be removed and replaced.
Upkeep
Concrete surfaces may seem somewhat superior when it comes to upkeep because they don’t necessarily need to be sealed on a regular basis for the purposes of preservation, whereas it is wise to seal your asphalt surface every few years to ensure longevity. However, concrete can become damaged in a number of ways, and once damaged, it is much more difficult to repair.
Concrete, for example, is prone to cracking, and this is not easy or inexpensive to repair. In some cases, you’ll have no choice but to replace cracked surfaces. Because of its light color, it shows stains like grease and motor oil more. It can also be damaged by salt, although areas that don’t get seasonal ice won’t necessarily experience such issues. Because asphalt enjoys a level of flexibility, it won’t crack nearly as easily as concrete, and it’s easier and less expensive to repair when it does suffer damage.
Environmental Concerns
Both concrete and asphalt could be reused, but it’s important to note that asphalt is the most recycled material in the U.S., with nearly 80 million tons of asphalt paving reclaimed annually, according to the Environmental Protection Agency and the Federal Highway Administration. Of that amount, almost 100% is recycled to make new paved surfaces.
