If you plan to enhance your home’s aesthetic features, then it is essential to use appropriate driveway materials. Asphalt and concrete are two paving materials available. You may want to know which one may be ideal for your driveway.
Know the difference
- Repairs and maintenance: Asphalt driveway needs to be sealed after installation about 6 months to about a year. It requires sealing again after every 3-5 years to extend its lifespan. However, there is no need to hire a professional to do the job. You can seal your own driveway using the right materials. Not much sealing is necessary for concrete. Applying a seal is likely to preserve the finish and enhance its look. Degreasers are likely to increase maintenance costs and are essential to eliminate chemical stains, fuel, and oil build-up. Cracks appear in both the type of materials and will require frequent repairs. It is easy and affordable to fix asphalt cracks. However, concrete cracks are tough to resurface and repair.
- Cost: Asphalt driveway cost is much cheaper when compared to concrete ones. Stains, details, and finishes are likely to increase the price tag of the concrete driveway.
- Weather and climate: These factors are likely to determine your pavement decisions. Concrete is likely to crack during cold winters due to constant freezing/thawing. On the other hand, road salts are likely to corrode concrete surfaces. Asphalt driveways are affected significantly by hot climates as it softens in extreme heat during summer. It can stick to car tires, clothing, and shoes.
- Design and aesthetic: Pavement material does play a significant role when aesthetic features of your driveway are concerned. It is possible to stamp, etch, tint, or stain the concrete type. Finishes offer hues or alternative colors to grayish, natural off-white color. On the other hand, asphalt needs to be rolled as well as compressed at the time of installation. However, it does not allow proper etching, stamping, or finishes. Some sealants may contain coloring or tints. But you are left with just a single option, namely, black.
- Durability and lifespan: When compared to concrete, asphalt is considered to be less durable. It can last for over thirty years if proper maintenance is carried out. Concrete offers long-lasting, sturdy options providing a lifespan of over 50 years. However, it will require occasional degreasing and repairs.
Considering the above aspects, you can finalize which material to use for your driveway.
