Concrete Driveways Versus Asphalt
5 Advantages of Using Concrete Driveways Construction
If you’re thinking about replacing or adding a driveway to your home, you might be wondering what your options are in terms of materials and style. Concrete and asphalt are two of the most prevalent types of driveway pavement, and each has its own set of advantages and disadvantages.
While asphalt may be less expensive in the short term, concrete is less expensive in the long run because it takes less care and upkeep, stands up better in the rain and heat, and allows for a greater variety of design alternatives.
For your new concrete driveways, consider the following five advantages:
1. Concrete is extremely sturdy and will last for a very long time.
Construction materials such as concrete are the most frequently used in the world. A number of factors contribute to its widespread use, the most important of which is its long-lasting nature. In contrast to asphalt, concrete that has been properly built, poured, finished, and maintained can retain its original quality and form for decades.
Any outdoor project, but notably driveways, must take durability into consideration. It is one of the most crucial factors to consider. Over the years, your driveway will almost certainly be subjected to heavy vehicles, bicycles, shoes, heat, rain, and moss, necessitating the installation of a high-quality, long-lasting surface. Concrete driveways can last 30-40 years with adequate maintenance, whereas asphalt driveways tend to fail after 12-20 years, even with regular maintenance and resealing.
2. Asphalt should be resealed every two to five years, depending on usage.
Many homeowners prefer an asphalt driveway because it is less expensive to construct and does not require curing before it can be used as a driveway. However, while concrete driveways are more expensive to construct, it can actually save you money in the long run if you expect to remain in your present home for a number of years because of cheaper maintenance expenses.
Asphalt driveways should be cleaned at least twice a year, using a powerful hose and a stiff broom to remove dirt and debris. Re-sealing is required every two to five years in order to retain their beauty and water resistance. Asphalt can also acquire cracks and holes over time, and these should be fixed as soon as possible to avoid them from deteriorating and causing further damage.
Overall, concrete requires significantly less maintenance than asphalt, resulting in significant savings in the long run.
3. Concrete is more suitable for use in wet conditions.
Asphalt paving cannot be completed in any rain that is heavier than a few gentle showers every now and again (and we get a lot of rain in the Pacific Northwest). Due to the fact that asphalt is created from a combination that contains oils, which separate out when exposed to water and rise to the surface of freshly put asphalt, creating craters, asphalt craters are the result. It is possible for rain and snow to seep into gaps in asphalt surfaces even after they have been laid, slowly deteriorating the material and expanding the fissures in freezing conditions.
The material can also melt in extremely hot weather (which might stain your shoes), and sunlight breaks down and dries it over time, causing cracking and allowing rain, moss, and other debris to settle on top of the substance.
Concrete performs far better when it is exposed to the weather, both during the installation process and over the course of time. Despite the fact that it is still not a good idea to pour concrete in an unprotected location during a rainfall, water does not destroy concrete in the same manner that it does asphalt. In the long run, concrete is resistant to possible damage caused by precipitation, UV radiation, and other environmental factors, particularly when it is well maintained.
4. Concrete driveways are preferred by homebuyers.
Despite the fact that concrete is more expensive to build, it is usually a worthwhile investment. Not only will you save money in the long run owing to decreased maintenance costs, but a concrete driveway is often more enticing to potential home buyers because to its durability, minimal maintenance requirements, and aesthetics.
When it comes to increasing the value of your home, choosing a concrete driveway with a bespoke, decorative design can be extremely beneficial to you. A concrete driveway that has been stamped, stained, or sand polished can instantly increase curb appeal, providing potential buyers a positive first impression of your house.
5. With decorative concrete, you have a plethora of design possibilities.
Asphalt surfaces are widely referred to as “the blacktop” for a good reason: they are extremely durable. A limitation of asphalt is that it has limited color possibilities and is difficult to personalize because of the methods employed in its application (rolling and compressing). Despite the fact that some degree of color adjustment is feasible, asphalt is typically dark in hue — hence the term “blacktop” in colloquial usage.
Concrete is significantly more easily customized than stone. It can be stained, tinted, and colored, as well as stamped, etched, scored, and brushed, among other things. In other words, you have the ability to personalize it. It is possible to choose from a variety of patterns, ornate borders, and personalized designs. Concrete can be made to look like other materials, such as brick, wood, or stone, by using special techniques.
Consider replacing, resurfacing, or otherwise improving the appearance of your driveway.
Designing and installing (or resurfacing) the concrete driveway of your dreams is within reach with the assistance of our team of dedicated professionals. At KSG Concrete we will work with you and your budget to create a stunning driveway that will last for decades, raise the value of your property, and save you money in the long run!
In order to receive a free estimate, please call (469) 296-5171 or fill out the form on this page.