Comparing Asphalt and Concrete Driveways

If you’re preparing to install a new driveway at your home, you’ll need to determine the type of paving method you’ll use. Your two primary traditional options for driveway paving are concrete and asphalt. There are some similarities between the two, but also some crucial differences that you should take into account as part of your decision-making process.

Here are just a few of the factors you should consider when determining whether you’ll have an asphalt driveway installed or work with a masonry contractor in Racine, WI to build a concrete driveway.

Appearance

Sure, a driveway is primarily a functional, practical component of your home, but it’s also worthwhile to consider the appearance and curb appeal of your property. This is a much more subjective factor than others on the list, but still worth considering. When poured and cured, asphalt is much darker than concrete. However, because concrete is easier to work with to create different finishes, you can stain it in a wide variety of colors, and stamp it into different designs. You can even perform concrete etching and engraving, or create different finishes, such as brushed or exposed aggregate.

There are more limitations with what you can do with asphalt. There aren’t many color options, though a few tints are available. Asphalt must be properly rolled and compressed, so you’re not going to be able to do as much with the finished product.

Upkeep

You’ll want to consider the type of ongoing maintenance required for concrete and asphalt driveways. Asphalt driveways should be sealed about six months to a year after installation, and then fairly regularly (every three to five years) thereafter. This is a job anyone can do, and it does not require any special equipment. This helps extend the asphalt’s life.

Concrete does not need to be sealed or resealed, though doing so can help to preserve its appearance. Concrete will stain easier than asphalt. Both materials can be repaired when cracks form, but asphalt is easier to repair and blend, while concrete repairs will be much more obvious.

Cost

Looking only at installation and not ongoing maintenance, you can generally assume asphalt is going to be a much cheaper option. Average prices hover between $2.50 and $4 per square foot for asphalt, versus $4 to $6 for concrete. Prices can increase for concrete depending on finishes and any other details implemented as part of the designs.

Climate

Wisconsin runs the whole gamut of temperatures and seasons, which is something you’re going to want to take into account. Concrete can crack and lift as a result of frost heaving during freezing temperatures, and the salt used for melting ice can create pits in concrete. Asphalt, meanwhile, will have issues in hotter weather, with the tar potentially becoming soft and tacky, causing it to deform.

For more information about the differences between asphalt and concrete driveways, contact a masonry contractor in Racine, WI at Langenfeld Masonry & Concrete. We will be happy to answer any questions you have!

Categorised in: Masonry Contractor