Is asphalt cheaper than concrete?

The cost of an asphalt driveway is typically cheaper than concrete, costing $2.00 to $4.00 per square foot. Asphalt prices tend to fluctuate with fluctuations in crude oil prices. In contrast, a concrete driveway costs between $4.00 and $6.00 per square foot for a standard installation.

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If you’re building a new home or simply refreshing aspects of your current home, using the right driveway material is essential. For driveways, there are two essential paving materials to choose from: concrete and asphalt. The first question many ask is: “What are the differences between asphalt and concrete driveways?” Though these materials vary in many ways, they also have some similarities. First, both asphalt and concrete driveways have a gravel base. They are both made with stone and sand. The primary difference involves their adhesive materials. Asphalt is petroleum-based while concrete is made of cement. This simple variance leads to a variety of differences between the materials. Here are five ways asphalt and concrete driveways differ.

1. Cost Differences Between Asphalt and Concrete Driveways

2. Maintenance and Repairs on Asphalt and Concrete Driveways

When you consider an asphalt driveway, you should understand the maintenance and repairs that accompany it. Generally, six months to a year after installation, an asphalt driveway should be sealed—and then sealed again every three to five years. This will extend the life of the driveway and does not require a professional. With the right materials, many homeowners seal their own driveways. However, concrete driveways don’t require as much sealing. Applying a seal to concrete driveways will enhance the look and preserve the finish, so many homeowners opt for this maintenance. Degreasers increase maintenance costs for concrete driveways, but they are often a necessary step to remove oil, fuel and chemical stains that build up over time. Cracks affect both asphalt and concrete driveways and should always be repaired. Homeowners will find that asphalt cracks are easier to fix and result in more aesthetically pleasing repairs. While concrete cracks, on the other hand, are harder to repair and impossible to resurface.

3. Asphalt vs. Concrete Differences in Lifespan and Durability

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Overall, the difference between asphalt and concrete driveways is that 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.

4. Aesthetic and Design of Asphalt vs. Concrete Driveways

When it comes to the look of your driveway, pavement material plays an important role. You can stain, tint, etch or stamp a concrete driveway to get a desired look. Finishes provide alternative colors or hues to the natural off-white, grayish color of concrete. Asphalt, however, must be rolled and compressed during installation. It does not lend itself well to finishes, stamping or etching. Some sealants contain tints or coloring, but options are generally limited to black.

5. Asphalt vs. Concrete Differences When It Comes to Climate and Weather

Homeowners living in very cold or hot regions should consider how climate and weather patterns affect their pavement decisions between asphalt and concrete driveways. In cold winters, concrete may crack from constant freezing and thawing, while road salt eats away at concrete surfaces. Hot climates affect asphalt driveways in negative ways, as well. Asphalt softens in the hot sun and can stick to shoes, clothing, and car tires. To recap, there are many differences between asphalt and concrete driveways. Here are a few takeaways to remember as you continue to make the best decision for your needs and budget.

Characteristics of an Asphalt Driveway

Asphalt is less expensive

Asphalt is a softer material, leading it to deteriorate faster and easier than concrete repairs

With proper maintenance, expensive repairs can be avoided

It does not have the creative design aspect that concrete does, but recent developments now allow asphalt to be mixed with coloring or be sealed with color tints

The material offers 30+ years of use

It requires occasional resurfacing and resealing every three to five years

Although it requires more maintenance, asphalt repairs are easier than concrete

For these reasons, asphalt driveways aren’t best for busy families that will have a lot of driveway traffic and heavy use. But, for those of you looking for a cost-efficient option with a clean and sleek look, asphalt is the right choice.

Characteristics of a Concrete Driveway

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Concrete is more durable than asphalt

Because it is a less flexible material, it cracks in freezing temperatures, and many people turn to concrete patching products

Concrete offers 50+ years of use

The only maintenance required is occasional degreasing

Resurfacing a concrete driveway offers more opportunities for creative appearance. It can be stamped with patterns, tinted to different colors, given different finishes, or engraved with designs Though it is more durable overall, when damages do occur, concrete repair is harder and costlier than asphalt repair If you’re looking for a driveway that may be an investment upfront but will last long and offers customizability, look to a concrete driveway. This option is great for homeowners who plan to stay in their current home for many years and need an option that can withstand a long, bustling life. For more information regarding the multiple options we offer for asphalt and concrete driveway repair, please visit our products page.

Conclusion

Overall, there are many factors to think about when choosing an asphalt vs. concrete driveway. Appearance, initial cost, and possible driveway repair and maintenance needs are all things to consider. Plus, more specific questions such as the climate you live in, the wear and tear you might exert on the driveway, and any personal restrictions you have should be factored in as well. If you’re working on a pavement repair project, read this blog post about whether asphalt or concrete is right for the job. For more information on UNIQUE Paving Materials and the products and services that we offer, please contact us today, as we look forward to serving you.

uniquepavingmaterials.com - Asphalt vs Concrete Driveways - UNIQUE Paving Materials

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