Asphalt vs Concrete Driveways: Which is Better?

If you live in an area that freezes during the winter, you should choose asphalt over concrete. Asphalt does require maintenance, and will require resealing every two or three years. In this article, we'll look at some of the benefits and drawbacks of each material. Also, we'll look at the cost of installation. Whichever material you choose, make sure you understand the cost of maintenance and installation before you decide on the best choice for your driveway.

Durability

Although both materials are durable, asphalt has its advantages and disadvantages. For example, asphalt is more flexible than concrete, and can be damaged by road salt. Also, it is difficult to repair a crack in asphalt, and it takes up to a week to fully cure. Concrete, on the other hand, is prone to cracks and is a better option if you live in a cold climate. However, asphalt can be slippery and can stick to shoes. In such a case, it is best to avoid driving on it until it has cooled.

Another downside of concrete is that it is not flexible. Even though it is durable, it is not flexible enough to accommodate the shifting earth beneath it. In addition, concrete is prone to cracking during freezing temperatures. Fortunately, there are concrete repair products available to fix the damage. In the coldest winter months, cracks in concrete can fill with water, which expands and deforms it. The resulting shifting can be dangerous for cars and people walking on it.

Cost

If you are looking to install a new driveway for your home, you'll likely have to decide between a concrete or asphalt one. Asphalt driveways typically cost $150 to $175 per square foot, while concrete driveways tend to cost more than twice that. These prices do not include permits and site preparation work. Furthermore, it is more expensive to break up a concrete driveway, which can cost anywhere from $1 to $4 per square foot.

Both materials have their pros and cons. Asphalt is a common paving material, while concrete is a more modern alternative. Asphalt driveways cost about half as much as a concrete driveway, including installation. Though rates fluctuate depending on crude oil prices, they generally stay within a certain range. That's a big benefit, as many homeowners are concerned about the cost. However, if you're worried about the price of a driveway that will last for years, you can still get a concrete driveway for a fraction of the cost.

Maintenance

Generally, you should seal your driveway once every six months to a year. A concrete polishing pro can help. Sealing asphalt every three to five years will prolong its lifespan and preserve its look. Although sealing your driveway can add to the cost, it will also preserve its finish. The two common types of driveways can benefit from periodic sweeping and hose spraying. While concrete is more resistant to staining than asphalt, you must use degreaser to remove oil stains.

Both concrete and asphalt driveways can last between 30 and 40 years, depending on their maintenance schedule. But, improper installation can shorten the lifespan considerably, even to five to ten years. However, routine maintenance and crack filling are essential. In addition, you should ensure that the surface is properly sealed to prevent deterioration caused by oil and other liquids. Both materials are expensive to install, but they are worth the cost.

Cost of installation

If you're considering a new driveway for your home, you may be wondering about the difference between asphalt and concrete. In general, asphalt driveways require 7.5 to 15 tons of material to be installed. In the past, asphalt driveways were simple and cheap, with a black surface that kept prices steady. Compared to concrete, asphalt costs between $3 and $7 per square foot. However, asphalt overlays require regular inspections, and the underlying concrete can wear down the top layer of asphalt over time.

The cost of asphalt resurfacing varies depending on the design and decorative finish of the new driveway. It can cost anywhere from $3 to $10 per square foot, with the average cost of about $2,500 for a 600-square-foot driveway. While resurfacing costs less than half as much as concrete, it's a better choice for older driveways. As an added bonus, asphalt repair is usually cheaper than replacement, and you'll save between $5 and $8 per square foot.