A commercial setup must be devoid of flaws; structure driveways hold the next most importance with the actual building. Therefore, in this blog, we will put an end to the debate of the best material for a driveway, asphalt vs. concrete.
Both types, asphalt as well as concrete, make up a durable, aesthetically pleasing driveway. But the real choice should be made after careful consideration and not just the price.
Asphalt Vs. Concrete Driveway
Both require gravel and are laid over it and are a mix of sand and stone. The difference lies in the adhesives used to hold them together. Commercial contractors use tar for asphalt, whereas they choose cement for concrete.
Asphalt Driveway Pros vs. Concrete
You must factor in climate before making a decision between asphalt and concrete. The reason is that both materials react differently to the weather and temperature changes. For example, in case of the area the subject has scorching summers, an asphalt driveway may turn sticky or mushy amidst the temperature spikes.
The continuous change from hardening during cold and turning soft in high heat causes asphalt to crack or sag. If we have a look at concrete, it can buckle, crack and have in the winters more so when you do not winterize it. Moreover, as far as ice melting is in question, it takes more time on concrete than on asphalt driveways.
Concrete and Aesthetics
If we look at the raw form, asphalt ranges from dark gray to black; therefore often referred to as “blacktop.” On the other hand, concrete is pale gray.
However, concrete well absorbs staining into different colors, whichever one desires. Additionally, concrete allows stamp patterns or brushing for a textured finish.
You can easily choose a concrete vs. asphalt driveway to match your color scheme. Or create the rustic look of brick or any other pattern.
Maintenance
In the case of asphalt, after a few months of installation driveway will need sealing to protect the top surface in order to lengthen its overall life.
Then, you must remember to reseal it every 3 to 5 years from then. On the other hand, in concrete vs. asphalt driveway, sealing concrete helps reduce fading to a great extent—a necessary protective measure for a tinted driveway.
Concrete and Asphalt Driveway – Longevity
If we generally talk, about appropriate installation, after weighing suitable climate pros and cons and maintenance, concrete driveways last about 30 to 40 years on the whole. At the same time, an asphalt driveway stays well in shape for 20 to 30 years.
However, one must make sure not to neglect the stable substrate of gravel. Also, no recklessness towards proper maintenance. If one does not abide by all of this, then it does not matter which one you use; the driveway will lose its life soon.
Final Words
It is a known fact that concrete costs more than asphalt, but the latter requires more frequent maintenance, so the cost is more or less even; cumulatively. However, at the time of deciding which material is best, do talk to professionals from Qamar Constructions for help.