When installing a new driveway, most homeowners are faced with the choice of either concrete or asphalt. There are advantages and disadvantages to both materials, but factors like cost, maintenance, and durability may sway your decision. Learn the key differences between asphalt and concrete to ensure you’re making a decision that’s right for you.
CURING
Compared to concrete, asphalt has a quicker cure time. In most cases, you can drive on your asphalt driveway the same day you install it. With concrete, on the other hand, you’ll need to wait about a week before driving on it while it cures.
DURABILITY
Durability is a major factor for homeowners to consider when choosing driveway material, especially if you have multiple cars or lots of foot traffic. Concrete is significantly more durable than asphalt. Compared to asphalt, concrete withstands basic wear and tear and weather elements. For example, in the summer, the tar in the asphalt can become soft and deformed and may even stick to your shoes.
COST
The upfront cost of asphalt is a lot cheaper than concrete. However, it’s important to take the lifespan of each material into consideration. Concrete will last about three times longer compared to asphalt. Since you won’t have to pay to replace your driveway as frequently, concrete is actually cheaper in the long run
MAINTENANCE
Another cost consideration for your driveway is maintenance. Asphalt requires a lot of maintenance, due to its lack of durability and longevity. Concrete, on the other hand, doesn’t require much maintenance after it’s been installed. However, if your concrete driveway should sink or crack, it’s easy to repair with polyurethane foam.
Polyurethane foam can be used to raise concrete and fill voids by drilling a dime-sized hole into your driveway and injecting the polyurethane foam through the port and slab. Expansion occurs within seconds and cures within 15 minutes, making it a fast, easy, and cost-effective solution to maintaining your concrete driveway.
SAFETY
Especially for homeowners with young children or pets, concrete driveways are much safer than asphalt for a few reasons. The light color of concrete makes it easier to see in the dark, especially when there could be water or ice on the ground. Concrete is also easier to walk on when there’s moisture, whereas it’s easier to slip on asphalt.
APPEARANCE
Your driveway is often the first thing guests or passersby see when they look at your home. While appearance is subjective, many homeowners prefer the look of concrete over asphalt. A stamped pattern can even add to your curb appeal.
INSTALL OR REPAIR YOUR CONCRETE DRIVEWAY WITH MR. LEVEL
When it comes to installing your driveway, save yourself the time and expense by choosing concrete over asphalt. Need a new driveway put in or an old one dug up and replaced? Mr. Level offers complete concrete services to install your driveway in a variety of designs. Contact Mr. Level for more information on concrete driveway installation and repair or to get a free quote.
