Asphalt vs. Concrete Driveways: Which is the Best Option For Your Home?

When choosing a material for your driveway, you want to make sure you're making the best decision for your home. That's why we're here to break down the differences between two popular options: concrete and asphalt. Both have pros and cons, so it's essential to consider your needs and preferences. Let's dive in and take a closer look!

Why Choose A Concrete Driveway?

Concrete driveways are becoming increasingly popular for a variety of reasons. In this section, we will explore why you may want to consider a concrete driveway over an asphalt one.

Concrete Driveways Last Longer Than Asphalt

Concrete driveways are much more durable than asphalt driveways, lasting longer and requiring less maintenance. They can last up to 25 years with proper care, while asphalt driveways only last around 15 years. Because they are made of crushed stone, sand, and gravel bonded with cement paste, concrete is a stronger material than asphalt. It has a compressive strength that is 10-20 times stronger than asphalt, able to withstand heavier loads and traffic. Concrete is also more resistant to weather changes than asphalt, including rain, sleet, snow, and even UV radiation.

Concrete Driveways Are More Energy-Efficient

Concrete driveways are significantly more energy-efficient than asphalt driveways, especially in a hotter climate. Concrete has a higher albedo, reflecting more light and heat than darker surfaces like asphalt. This reduces the heat absorbed by your driveway and home, reducing the need for air conditioning and lowering energy bills. Additionally, concrete is denser than asphalt, which means it retains heat more efficiently. This keeps your driveway and home warmer in colder weather.

Concrete Driveways Are More Aesthetically

Concrete has a much cleaner and more aesthetically pleasing look than asphalt. Additionally, concrete can be customized with different colors, stains, finishes, and designs. While adding decorative elements to a new asphalt driveway is possible, it is a more difficult process requiring naturally colored rocks and recycled glass.

Concrete Driveways Are Easier to Maintain

While concrete driveways are harder to repair, they are damaged much less often. Asphalt driveways also need to be resealed much more often than concrete driveways.

Concrete Driveways Offer Better Drainage Capabilities

Because asphalt is made from petroleum products, it is a porous material that absorbs water instead of water running off it. Over time, this can cause the asphalt to deteriorate, especially in locations with frequent freeze-thaw cycles or heavy rainfall.

Concrete Driveways gives more decorative options.

Concrete driveways provide various decorative options, including colored, stamped, and stained surfaces. Colored concrete is a popular choice, allowing for a subtle enhancement or a vibrant hue to be added to the driveway. Stamped concrete is another decorative option, imprinting patterns and textures on the surface. You can use stamped concrete for your driveway to resemble brick, tile, stone, and more. Finally, stained concrete is another excellent option that can add to the look of your outdoor space.

Why Choose an Asphalt Driveway

It's important to weigh your options before you invest into a new driveway. Asphalt driveways are also a popular choice and have their own benefits. We'll cover the benefits and drawbacks of an asphalt driveway so that you can make an informed decision.

Asphalt is cheaper than concrete.

Compared to concrete, asphalt is the more affordable option. A 24-foot by 24-foot concrete driveway costs range from $2,300 to $4,600, while the same-sized asphalt driveway will be between $1,700 and $2,900. Sometimes, you can even install asphalt for half the price. Furthermore, designs, patterns, and stains can push the price of a concrete driveway up to as much as $15.00 per square foot.

Asphalt Driveways are easier to repair.

When it comes to driveway repair, both asphalt and concrete driveways have their advantages and disadvantages. Asphalt driveways are considered to be easier to repair than concrete driveways. Asphalt is relatively inexpensive and less labor-intensive to patch, fill, and seal than concrete. Concrete is usually harder to work with, and patching requires a more precise application, and often you need a professional to repair it correctly.

Cold Weather Durability

Asphalt is quite resilient in cold weather and can withstand temperatures below freezing. This is because of the petroleum binding agent. The petroleum binding agent helps keep the asphalt flexible and gives it the ability to expand and contract when the temperature changes. As a result, asphalt can withstand freezing temperatures without cracking or warping. Additionally, asphalt has a darker color that absorbs more heat from the hot sun, which can help melt snow and ice faster than concrete. However, it's important to note that both asphalt and concrete can be used in cold climates. Proper maintenance and subgrade preparation can also affect performance in these conditions.

Speed of Installation and Use

If you are looking for a quick installation, you can drive on Asphalt within a few days. With concrete, you must wait for it to cure. You usually have to wait at least a week before using it and almost a month until it is fully hardened.

Concrete or Asphalt?

Deciding between a concrete or asphalt driveway depends on your preferences and specific needs. While concrete is more durable, water-resistant, and energy-efficient, it's typically more expensive. On the other hand, asphalt is more affordable and better suited for cold climates but may only last for a short time with higher maintenance costs. Consider all these factors to make the best decision for your situation.

If you're considering a concrete driveway for your home, don't hesitate to contact us at Confident Concrete. Our team of expert concrete contractors can provide you with a range of options and guide you through the entire process. Call us today to schedule a consultation and get started on your new concrete driveway.