Concrete and asphalt are the two most popular materials used to pave residential and commercial properties. They serve the same purpose of providing a stable parking surface and can both be colored to match your home’s exterior. While concrete is stronger than asphalt and less likely to crack, it can cause cracks if not installed correctly. Asphalt is cheaper, on the other hand, but it’s weaker than concrete. Trying to decide whether you should install a concrete or asphalt driveway? Here is everything you need to know.
What Is a Concrete Driveway?
Concrete is composed of Portland cement, sand, lime and aggregate (small stones or crushed stone). It’s a mixture that forms an adhesive bond when mixed with water. It hardens over time due to a chemical process called hydration, which occurs when water in the concrete mixes with air, releasing heat. This process makes the concrete stronger because it allows the ingredients to react chemically. Over time, they cement together and produce an interlocking network that strengthens the material.
Advantages of a Concrete Driveway
– Durability: A concrete driveway lasts longer than an asphalt driveway. It can withstand the test of time and will not crack or break apart after a few years. It does not need to be repaired often either.
– Cost: Concrete driveways are less expensive than asphalt driveways. The initial expense of an asphalt driveway may seem less expensive, but over time, the costs add up in terms of repairs and maintenance, while concrete helps you save money in the long run.
– Appearance: The concrete look is preferred because it is more textured and doesn’t require a coating to be stain-resistant like asphalt.
– Longevity: The lifespan of an asphalt driveway is about 15 years on average. The life expectancy of concrete depends on where you live — in warm climates, it can last about 25 years.
What Is an Asphalt Driveway?
Asphalt driveways are typically made using hot asphalt, layered and compacted using heavy rollers. Once the asphalt has cooled and hardened, it can be topped with a sealant or colored coating to make it more attractive to the homeowner. Asphalt driveways have been used for many years because of their ability to support heavy loads and resist damage from most elements. If properly maintained, an asphalt driveway will last for decades, often far longer than a concrete driveway.
Advantages of an Asphalt Driveway
– Customization: Driveway surfaces are custom-built to the exact shape of your property.
– Energy efficiency: Asphalt is breathable so that moisture can escape; this helps prevent the growth of algae and fungus that could damage your pavement.
– Maintenance requirements: The upkeep on an asphalt driveway is minimal compared to other paving materials such as concrete or brick. Asphalt does not need to be sealed because it does not react with oxygen in the air as other paving products do.
– Heat resistance: Another great advantage of using asphalt driveway material is its high heat resistance property compared to other pavement materials. The heat generated from asphalt is transferred into the ground rather than absorbed by the surrounding soil and vegetation, thus reducing cooling costs for your home.
– Wear and tear resistance: Asphalt is known for its high levels of wear and tear resistance. This characteristic makes it ideal for areas that receive a lot of traffic from motor vehicles, such as parking lots and driveways. It can also be used in areas where the material will be exposed to harsher weather conditions or extreme temperatures, such as along the coast or in places that experience a lot of snowfall each year.
– Low maintenance: One of the main reasons asphalt is favored over other paving materials is that it requires minimal maintenance. It does not need to be sealed every year, unlike concrete driveways, which tend to crack and chip away if they aren’t protected with sealant every year or two. You only need to apply an asphalt sealer once or twice.
While your options are many, when it comes to paving your driveways, W&W Construction is a leading name for all kinds of residential and commercial paving, repairing, maintaining, and sandblasting. Reach out to us for your needs and we will provide complete asphalt services.
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