Which is Better for a Driveway Replacement, Concrete or Asphalt?

When it comes time to replace your driveway, you may be wondering whether concrete or asphalt is the better option. Both have their pros and cons, so it can be difficult to decide which is right for you. In this article, we will explore the benefits of both concrete and asphalt driveways, and help you decide which is the best choice for your home.

Cost

Cost is always a consideration when it comes to home improvement projects.  Which is better for your driveway replacement, concrete or asphalt?

Asphalt is less expensive than concrete but doesn’t last as long. The average lifespan of an asphalt driveway is about 20 years, while concrete can last up to 30. So, if you’re looking for a long-term investment, concrete is the better choice.

Repairs And Maintenance

Concrete driveways need to be resealed every few years and repaired as cracks appear. These repairs can be costly and time-consuming.

Asphalt driveways require less maintenance, but they will still need to be resealed every three to five years. Crack repairs are also necessary, but they are typically less expensive than concrete repairs.

Lifespan And Durability

Asphalt driveways typically last 12 to 20 years, depending on the quality of the installation, climate, usage, and upkeep. Concrete driveways can last even longer, often 30 to 40 years or more.  So in terms of lifespan, concrete is the clear winner. But that doesn’t mean asphalt is a poor choice.

When comparing the durability of concrete and asphalt, it’s important to consider how each material holds up under different conditions. For example, asphalt is more flexible than concrete, so it can better withstand the freeze-thaw cycles that are common in many parts of the country. This flexibility also makes asphalt less likely to crack when heavy vehicles are driven over it.

Concrete, on the other hand, is much more resistant to salt damage, making it a good choice for driveways in snowy climates. It’s also less likely to be damaged by oil or gas spills.  So if you live in an area with harsh winters or you do a lot of work on your car in the driveway, concrete might be the better choice.

Of course, both asphalt and concrete driveways need to be regularly seal-coated to protect them from damage and extend their lifespan. But overall, concrete is the more durable option.

Design And Aesthetics

When it comes to design and aesthetics, there’s no clear winner. It really comes down to personal preference. Asphalt driveways can be made to look like stone or brick pavers, and they come in a variety of colors. Concrete driveways can also be stamped and colored to mimic other materials, such as stone or brick.

Weather And Climate

Both asphalt and concrete driveways are susceptible to damage from the sun, rain, snow, and ice. But each material has its own unique set of challenges. For example, asphalt driveways can be damaged by oil and gas spills. And if they’re not properly seal-coated, they will deteriorate quickly in hot weather. Concrete driveways can crack in cold weather if they’re not installed on a solid base. They can also be damaged by salt or other de-icing chemicals. So if you live in an area with harsh winters or you do a lot of work on your car in the driveway, concrete might be the better choice.

Characteristics Of An Asphalt Driveway:

• Asphalt is less costly.
• Because asphalt is a softer material, it deteriorates more quickly and easily than concrete repairs.
• Costly repairs can be avoided with careful upkeep.
• Although it lacks the creative design potential of concrete, new improvements have enabled asphalt to be colored or sealed with color tints.
• The material will last for at least 30 years.
• Every three to five years, it needs to be resurfaced and resealed.
• Asphalt is easier to repair than concrete, despite the fact that it requires more upkeep.

Asphalt driveways aren’t ideal for busy families with a lot of traffic and heavy use, for these reasons. However, for those searching for a cost-effective solution with a clean and elegant appearance, asphalt is the way to go.