Concrete is better than asphalt for your driveway because of its strength, environment-friendliness, better temperature control, and water-resistance. Asphalt
Asphalt
Asphalt, also known as bitumen is a sticky, black and highly viscous liquid or semi-solid form of petroleum. It may be found in natural deposits or may be a refined product; it is a substance classed as a pitch. Until the 20th century, the term asphaltum was also used. The word is derived fr…
Full Answer
Why are concrete driveways better than asphalt?
Why Concrete Driveways are Better than Asphalt
- Cost. While asphalt driveways generally cost a little less up front than concrete driveways, they will cost more over time because of maintenance.
- Durability and Maintenance. ...
- Aesthetics. ...
- Concrete driveways can have: Different finishes to choose from, to get exactly the look you want. ...
- Climate Factors. ...
- R&M Concrete. ...
How is asphalt cheaper than concrete in coating your driveway?
- Even though concrete lasts somewhat longer, asphalt costs considerably less and gives more value for your money.
- Concrete will eventually crack, even in warmer climates. ...
- Asphalt can be tinted and made to look very pleasing, similar to concrete.
- Asphalt does not show stains as bad as concrete.
Can an asphalt driveway be installed over a concrete one?
Yes, it is possible to pave asphalt over an old concrete roadway, driveway, or parking lot; however, we do not recommend it due to its many drawbacks. Although paving asphalt on concrete is safe, there are many reasons we do not endorse this practice.
How much does a concrete driveway cost to build?
The cost of concrete driveway can range from $1,530 to $10,530 depending on the size of your site, type of finish and preparation work. On 18m2 plain concrete driveways, the price can be around $1,530 to $3,510 including materials and labour. Concrete driveways are more durable and versatile compared to other types.
Is it better to have a concrete or asphalt driveway?
Overall, asphalt is less durable than concrete. With proper maintenance, it can last 30 years. Alternatively, concrete provides a sturdy, long-lasting option and can last homeowners 50+ years with occasional repairs and degreasing.
What type of driveway lasts the longest?
ConcreteConcrete is the old standby for driveways. Most suburban homes opt for this material for two big reasons: Concrete is typically the longest-lasting driveway surface, and, if installed properly, it is practically maintenance-free.
What type of driveway is best?
Concrete. Among the most durable options on the market is a concrete driveway surface. Although it provides a hard and stable surface, that is highly dependant on professional installation, high upfront costs, maintenance, and weather conditions.
Is it cheaper to concrete or pave?
As far as installation costs and concrete costs go, poured concrete is technically the most affordable per square foot. However, even though the upfront cost of pavers is higher, concrete pavers offer greater value and durability than poured concrete and stamped concrete.
What is the most low-maintenance driveway?
Low-Maintenance Driveway OptionsPaving Stones. Paving stones are known to last up to a full century if properly laid. ... Concrete Grass Pavers. An interlocking concrete grass paver driveway made may be an option for your driveway. ... Plastic Permeable Pavers.
How many years should a concrete driveway last?
25 to 30 yearsThe average life of your concrete driveway will depend on installation methods, environmental conditions and temperatures. However, you can expect your surface to last anywhere from 25 to 30 years with proper care. The key to prolonging the life of your investment is to pay attention to wear and tear each season.
What is the most cost effective driveway?
Of the four paving materials described in this guide, aggregate (gravel) is the least expensive, followed by asphalt, concrete, and paving stones. If you're installing your driveway on a shoestring budget, gravel is your best choice.
What is the most popular driveway?
Concrete Driveway Concrete is considered to be the most popular type for a number of reasons. Chief among these is the fact that it doesn't cost an arm and a leg to install. Furthermore, you don't have to worry about its durability. It's made to last.
What is the most popular driveway surface?
ConcreteConcrete is the most popular driveway material, and for good reason. Durable and low-maintenance, you won't have to give much thought to a concrete driveway.
How much does it cost to pour a 24x24 slab of concrete?
A typical 24x24 garage slab costs between $3,057 and $5,944 with prices ranging from $5.31 to $8.31 per square foot for a 4” reinforced slab of concrete, and $6.83 to $10.32 per square foot for a 6” slab of reinforced concrete.
Which is more durable concrete or asphalt?
Concrete driveways normally last longer than asphalt. In general, if installed properly in a suitable climate and maintained regularly, your concrete driveway should last 30 to 40 years, while an asphalt driveway is generally good for 20 to 30 years.
Is asphalt the same as blacktop?
Blacktop is heated to approximately 150 degrees celsius, whereas asphalt is only heated to 120 degrees celsius. Asphalt is has a higher bitumen content and for that reason is less porous and more resilient to wear and tear from high traffic and thus is the preferred choice for major highways.
Concrete Offers More Visual Options.
In their most basic forms, asphalt is dark gray to black—hence its common name of “blacktop”—and concrete is pale gray. Unlike asphalt, though, con...
Asphalt Can Suffer in The High Heat, While Concrete Performs Poorly in Extreme cold.
Climate is a major consideration when choosing between asphalt and concrete. If you live in an area with very hot summers, you might find an asphal...
Asphalt Requires Sealing Every Few Years, but Concrete Stains More Easily.
A few months after installation to allow for full curing, your asphalt driveway will need to be sealed to protect the surface and lengthen its life...
Asphalt Is Easier to Repair Than Concrete but Needs It More frequently.
While both asphalt and concrete crack, asphalt tends to deteriorate faster due to its softer consistency. However, it’s fairly easy to repair crack...
Concrete Driveways Normally Last Longer Than Asphalt.
In general, if installed properly in a suitable climate and maintained regularly, your concrete driveway should last 30 to 40 years, while an aspha...
You Can Drive on Asphalt Fairly Quickly but Must Wait For Concrete to Cure.
You can normally use an asphalt driveway within a couple of days of installation. With concrete, you’ll wait at least a week before it fully cures...
Concrete Costs A Lot More Than Asphalt.
As a rough rule of thumb, a concrete driveway costs around 45 to 50 percent more than an asphalt driveway. According to price site CostHelper, home...
How Long Does A Concrete Driveway Last?
Concrete can last 30 years with the proper maintenance, as long as there are no cracks. It’s more durable than asphalt because it’s more resistant...
Are Concrete Driveways Expensive?
The price to install concrete might be double what you would pay for an asphalt driveway.
Are Concrete Driveways Hard to Repair?
Even though concrete is more durable overall, when damages do occur, repairing it could be more complicated and costlier than fixing cracks on asph...
Are Asphalt Driveways Affordable?
Asphalt is less expensive than concrete to install. It could be about half the price per square foot to install asphalt.
Are Asphalt Driveways Easy to Repair?
Asphalt is a softer material, so it deteriorates faster and easier than concrete repairs. Although it requires more repairs than concrete, asphalt...
How Long Do Asphalt Driveways Last?
Asphalt can last an average of 15 to 20 years but can last even longer with the proper maintenance.
How Often Should Asphalt Driveways Be Resealed?
With proper, extensive upkeep, you can avoid costly repairs in the future. Asphalt driveways need resurfacing and resealing every three to five yea...
What is the difference between concrete and asphalt?
Concrete offers more visual options. In their most basic forms, asphalt is dark gray to black—hence its common name of “blacktop”—and concrete is pale gray. Unlike asphalt, though, concrete takes well to staining or tinting to just about any color you fancy. You can also stamp patterns into concrete or brush it for a textured finish.
How long does a concrete driveway last?
In general, if installed properly in a suitable climate and maintained regularly, your concrete drive way should last 30 to 40 years, while an asphalt driveway is generally good for 20 to 30 years. Neglect to install without an even, stable substrate of gravel —or be careless about proper maintenance—and either type of driveway can fail within a few years.
Why is my driveway sticky?
Climate is a major consideration when choosing between asphalt and concrete. If you live in an area with very hot summers, you might find an asphalt driveway becomes gooey or sticky when the temperature soars. The cycle of softening in high heat, then re-hardening once things cool down, can cause asphalt to crack or sag.
How long does it take for an asphalt driveway to cure?
You can normally use an asphalt driveway within a couple of days of installation. With concrete, you’ll wait at least a week before it fully cures enough for you to drive on it—something to keep it in mind if street parking is a challenge in your neighborhood!
Can you put a new top coat on asphalt?
It’s also relatively easy to apply a new topcoat of asphalt if the surface is heavily marred or showing its age. Concrete is tougher to repair, and patched spots are usually fairly obvious unless you plan on resurfacing the whole driveway. Photo: istockphoto.com.
Is it a must to seal a concrete driveway?
While it’s not a must-do for concrete driveways, sealing concrete helps cut down on fading—an important protective measure for a tinted driveway. Advertisement. When it comes to engine oil, gas drips, rust, and the rugged use driveways typically endure, the dark surface and matte finish of asphalt hides most stains and wear very well.
Is there a winner in the battle between asphalt and concrete?
There is no definite “winner” in the battle between asphalt and concrete; the decision comes down to which is best for your climate, your budget, and your tolerance for maintenance needs.
What is asphalt driveway called?
Colloquially, people refer to asphalt driveways as “blacktop” and call roads, airplane runways or parking lots “pavement.”.
What is the difference between concrete and asphalt?
Concrete and asphalt are both mixtures of sand and crushed stone called aggregate. The difference is what binds the aggregate together . In concrete, cement binds the mixture and gives it a light gray appearance. Asphalt is bound with a black, viscous petroleum-based substance. Both come in assorted colors, stained or stamped for a decorative effect.
How much does a gravel driveway cost?
The cost of a gravel driveway is the cheapest at $1,500. Concrete driveways cost $3,900 on average and asphalt costs $4,500.
How much does it cost to install a driveway heating system?
You can install a driveway heating system under either type of material. The average cost to install under asphalt is just under $9,000. The average cost to install under concrete is just under $8,000.
What is concrete driveway?
Concrete or Cement Driveways. Often used interchangeably, concrete is a composite material held together with cement. Concrete is a mixture of crushed stone, sand and cement. Cement is a mixture of water, powdered rock and clay. Pros pour the cold mixture onto a prepared gravel surface and level it. After several days of curing, the surface is ...
How thick is concrete?
Concrete. A minimum thickness of four inches is necessary. An additional inch will increase load carrying capacity by 50 percent, but it will increase cost by 20 percent. It’s easier to determine load capacity for concrete.
How long does it take to drive on asphalt?
Pros pour the hot mixture over a level, gravel base before pressing and smoothing it with a steamroller. You can park or drive a car on it within 24 hours.
What is the difference between asphalt and concrete?
Asphalt vs. Concrete Driveway. Asphalt and concrete both feature a mixture of stone with various other substances to give each of them differing durability and aesthetics. While concrete is conventional as a sidewalk or patio, pavers use asphalt to create roads and lots. Despite their differences, both materials make excellent driveways.
What happens if you hire a contractor to install an asphalt driveway?
When you hire a reliable contractor, your asphalt driveway will be able to withstand wear and tear with the proper installation and maintenance. Drainage issues: If a previous contractor incorrectly installed your driveway, the driveway might have problems controlling the flow of rainwater into the street.
Why is asphalt important?
An asphalt driveway can enhance the overall value of your property for the following reasons: Lower upfront cost: Asphalt is less expensive than concrete to install.
How long does a concrete driveway last?
Long-lasting driveway: Concrete can last 30 years with the proper maintenance, as long as there are no cracks. It’s more durable than asphalt because it’s more resistant to disintegration and distortion due to exposure to the elements.
What factors affect the cost of a driveway?
The following factors affect the cost of your driveway installation: Availability of materials: Contractors determine the price of your supplies based on how readily they can order and manufacture it. Concrete and asphalt are both common materials, and they won’t be as expensive as other driveway options.
Why is it important to have a long lasting driveway?
A long-lasting driveway can remove the stagnant water around your property that invites insects and other pests near your living space and reduces the aesthetic appeal of your house. Sunken areas: If the land under your concrete driveway starts to sink or shift, you might notice cracks on the surface.
Why do contractors charge more for driveways?
If the content is dense and challenging to install, or it’s not common in your neighborhood , your contractor may charge more money because they’ll need more equipment and workers to do the job. Property size: Typically, contractors consider the square footage of your driveway in the price on your estimate.
Comparison Summary: Asphalt Vs. Concrete
Now, after you weigh in all the factors that influence your driveway preference, you can take your pick. It all boils down to your planning. It would also help to talk to professional contractors. You can communicate your requirements with Northwest Concrete Resurfacing, and they can offer you the most cost-efficient solution.
The Downside of Asphalt Vs. Concrete: Comparison Summary
Now, after you weigh in all the factors that influence your driveway preference, you can take your pick. It all boils down to your planning. It would also help to talk to professional contractors. You can communicate your requirements with Northwest Concrete Resurfacing, and they can offer you the most cost-efficient solution.
The similarities and main difference between asphalt and concrete
In fact, concrete and asphalt are somewhat similar, being heterogeneous and composed of aggregates bound together with a binding material. However, the main difference in their composition lies in the binder. In concrete, the binder is generally cement and water.
The seven key factors for comparing concrete vs asphalt driveways
The major comparison factors include cost, curing time, lifespan, aesthetics, frequent maintenance, repairs, and durability.
Cost of concrete vs asphalt driveways: is asphalt or concrete cheaper?
The cost of concrete or asphalt driveways per square foot can have a wide range, due to various controlling factors such as the location, size, surface preparation, thickness, exposure conditions, borders, colors, staining, stamping, sealing, and others.
Curing time: and when can you drive over new concrete and new asphalt?
It is generally recommended to wait at least 7 days before driving over new concrete, and preferably 10 to 14 days before parking a vehicle. In fact, normal concrete reaches about 65% of its strength after seven days of curing, and about 85-90% after 14 days.
Lifespan: how long does a driveway last?
A concrete driveway should last from 25 to 40 years on average with proper maintenance. In fact, there are many factors that can influence its lifespan, including ground preparation, quality of the mixture, design, exposure conditions, maintenance, and others.
Aesthetics
Concrete driveways can have a wide range of customizations. For example, one go for stamped concrete, with an almost endless variety of colors, patterns, and textures. Also, concrete can be stenciled, stained, etched, painted, brushed, and much more. Hence, concrete can be customized in many ways to add a unique decorative touch to a driveway.
Maintenance
Concrete driveways usually require routine maintenance, such as cleaning and sealing. When it comes to sealing, it is important to choose the adequate type of sealer with the required properties for your project.
What is the difference between concrete and asphalt?
Concrete uses cement as a binding agent, while asphalt uses bitumen, an oil-based material that also gives asphalt its dark coloring. When choosing between concrete and asphalt, the decision ultimately comes down to cost and how your particular climate will affect the look and durability of the driveway.
How thick is a concrete driveway?
Concrete is very durable and will last a long time, giving it the edge in longevity. According to Everything About Concrete, a concrete driveway is 5 to 6 inches thick, making it stronger and more durable than an asphalt driveway, which is only 2 to 3 inches thick.
How long does it take to install a concrete driveway?
A concrete driveway may take one to three days to install, while an asphalt one can usually be completed within a few hours once the gravel base is installed. A newly installed concrete driveway also takes a long time to set.
How long does a concrete driveway last?
An asphalt driveway, while still lasting a long time, has a shorter life span than a concrete driveway, usually lasting about 15 to 20 years. Several factors can affect this, ...
What is the best material for a driveway?
Though there are other materials available for driveways, concrete and asphalt are by far the most popular driveway materials used for solid driveways. And although the aesthetics are completely different, concrete and asphalt are both made of the same primary materials: sand and stone or gravel. Advertisement.
Can you fix cracks in concrete?
Damage to an asphalt driveway can be patched, cracks can be fixed with a rubber sealer and the repair is often unnoticeable. When concrete cracks, it is more difficult to repair than asphalt, and repaired areas tend to stand out because it's difficult, if not impossible, to match the color when repairing concrete.
Does asphalt crack in winter?
An asphalt driveway will crack more often than concrete but is less likely to crack during cold winters and is relatively easy to repair.