There’s close competition on the virtues of asphalt driveways and concrete driveways for our properties, and it does not seem to be cooling off anytime soon. Which is the right choice for you and your home?
In this blog post, Asphalt Maintenance & Paving Solutions will explore the asphalt driveway vs. concrete driveway debate and help you determine which might be the best for your home.
Keep scrolling for more!
The Asphalt Driveway
Let’s pave the way by discussing the pros first:
- Lower Costs: This type of driveway generally costs less to install than concrete.
- Flexible: Asphalt is a very flexible pavement, which means it is less likely to crack under extreme temperatures or from heavy loads.
- Fast Paving Process: It can be laid down in a shorter amount than concrete, which needs more time to cure.
Now, onto the cons:
- Maintenance: The asphalt surface can suffer damage from gas or oil spills, and it will need repair.
- Lifespan: It doesn’t have the same longevity as concrete, so you’ll likely need to repave your asphalt driveway every 15 years.
- Appearance: Unlike concrete, stamping designs or patterns into asphalt can be difficult.
The Concrete Driveway
- Customizable: You can add color or patterns to your concrete driveway fairly easily. Its classic appearance also makes it a good choice for those who want a more traditional look for their home.
- Low Maintenance: Once your driveway is sealed, it won’t require much upkeep. You may need to get it resealed every few years, but that’s about it.
- Lifespan: This type of pavement can last 30 years or more with proper care and maintenance. Asphalt, on the other hand, will require a replacement every 15-20 years.
We’ll now serve up the cons of a concrete driveway:
- Cost: This driveway type will cost you more upfront than asphalt. But because it lasts longer, it evens out in the long run.
- Cracks: These driveways are susceptible to cracking, especially in extreme weather conditions. That’s why it’s crucial to have a professional install your concrete driveway to minimize the risk of cracking.
- Stains: Concrete can get stained quickly, which can be tough to remove. You may want to opt for an asphalt driveway if you have kids or pets.
Wrapping Up
Now that we’ve outlined the pros and cons of each type of driveway, it’s time to make your decision. Concrete is the way to go if you’re looking for a long-lasting driveway with little maintenance.
However, asphalt might be the right choice for you if you’re looking for a cheaper option with more forgiving stains and cracks.
No matter what you choose, Asphalt Maintenance & Paving Solutions can help you get the best results for your home. We are proud to serve Ellsworth with top-quality driveway paving services.
Get a free estimate and style your driveway today!