Concrete vs. Asphalt: Which Makes a Better Driveway

If your current driveway is too old or is seriously damaged, consider installing a new one. The two most popular solid materials used for constructing driveways are concrete and asphalt. Both concrete and asphalt are basically a mixture of sand and stone. They are laid over a substrate of gravel. While tar is used for holding components in asphalt together, cement is usually utilized for concrete. When embarking on a driveway construction project, many homeowners struggle to choose between the two materials because of the several similarities between them. To help answer the question as to which makes a better driveway, we use different factors to compare concrete and asphalt.

Options

Concrete can be easily stained or tinted to just about any color you fancy. Additionally, you can easily stamp patterns into concrete or brush it for a more refined finish. You won’t have this freedom with asphalt. Concrete can be an ideal option for homeowners who want their driveway pavement to blend seamlessly with their home’s exterior. Homeowners who desire a streamlined appearance, usually stick to the asphalt.

Maintenance

You cannot just install your asphalt driveway and forget it. Asphalt driveways must be sealed a few months after installation and resealed every 3-5 years thereafter to protect the surface from damage and increase its life expectancy. Concrete, on the other hand, is maintenance-free. Though it is not a must-do for concrete driveways, sealing them helps slow down the fading process.

Repairs

Asphalt tends to deteriorate faster than concrete and needs more frequent repairs than concrete due to its softer consistency.

Longevity

If installed and maintained properly, a concrete driveway can last up to 30 years or more. Asphalt driveways, on the other hand, do not usually last for more than 20-30 years. No matter which material you choose, remember to install with an even, stable substrate or gravel, and regularly maintain the driveway.

Fire Resistance

Concrete is known for its superior fire resistance. It cannot be set on fire and does not produce toxic fumes when impacted by the fire. Asphalt, on the other hand, is flammable when heated enough. When exposed to high temperatures, asphalt produces hazardous vapors. When these vapors react with oxygen, a flash fire can break out.

Thanks to several benefits of concrete, it is the preferred building material of homeowners and contractors around the world. Looking for a concrete supply store near you that can deliver concrete to your site? Look no further than Bayshore Materials Inc. Whether you need top-of-the-line concrete products or landscaping supplies, we have got your back. To discuss your requirements, call us at (707 644-0859).