A durable driveway ensures your property is accessible and attractive. Whether you're building a new home or considering an upgrade, choosing the best driveway paving material is an important part of the process. Asphalt and concrete are the two most popular options. Review this guide to learn about their differences and how each one can improve your property.
Asphalt
When sand, gravel, crushed rocks, and similar aggregates are mixed together with a binding agent derived from refining petroleum, asphalt paving is the result. While the mixture is hot, it's placed on a flat surface and smoothed over with a steamroller. It's usually covered with a sealant to block out water and UV rays, which can wear the material down and lead to potholes.
When it's sealed every three years, asphalt is resistant to cracking and other forms of damage caused by extreme temperatures. However, since it can become sticky in hot weather, it works best under the shade of trees and shrubs.
Asphalt is easy to repair in patches. It also requires minimal maintenance. The installation should be swept occasionally and power-washed annually. Asphalt can last about 20 years, making it one of the most reliable and durable driveway paving materials.
The mixture's dark color makes stains harder to notice, so it looks nice and clean throughout its life span. When you need to install new asphalt, the old materials can be recycled.
Concrete
Like asphalt, concrete is created with crushed stone and sand, but cement is the binding agent. Although the mixture is usually gray, it can be easily painted in any color you like. It's also malleable enough to be molded and carved in a variety of shapes, sizes, and designs. Driveway paving contractors can personalize the material for you, boosting your satisfaction and curb appeal.
Concrete is difficult to crack or chip, especially if you renew the sealant every four or five years. However, extremely cold weather conditions can create cracks, so you need to add a deicer before snowfall to warm the surface and prevent stains. Alternatively, installing a heating system beneath the driveway can prevent weather-related problems.
Although concrete is hard to repair, it's simple to maintain. It only needs annual power-washing sessions to remove oil and fungal stains. With regular upkeep, it should last 30 to 40 years. It can also be recycled when replaced.
