Concrete and asphalt driveways are often compared on the basis of cost, appearance, durability, and maintenance. In this article, we will settle the “concrete vs asphalt driveway” debate by giving you all the information that you need to consider to make an educated decision.
The cost
A driveway made of asphalt will usually be less expensive than a driveway made from concrete. This affordability can sometimes be as high as 30% to 40%. Asphalt costs in Australia range between $25 to $40 per square meter. On the other hand, concrete is more expensive than asphalt with prices that can range from $25 to $40 depending upon factors like slope and finish. An asphalt driveway is a good choice if cost is your main concern. But asphalt cracks more easily over time, so it is worth adding these costs to your driveway.
Concrete is more expensive than asphalt because of the materials they are made from. Concrete is composed of cement and aggregates, while asphalt is made up of bitumen and aggregates. So in terms of affordability, asphalt wins the concrete vs asphalt driveway debate. But it is not wise to base your decision on price alone. Durability, appearance, maintenance requirements, as well as convenience, are all factors that influence a driveway’s value.
The durability and convenience
Asphalt is the best option for causing minimal disruption to your everyday life as it can be walked on within 24 hours and driven on within three days. Concrete curing is a longer and slower process and should not be used for at most one week after construction. The installation process itself is easier and quicker with asphalt too but you do need to lay a gravel base before you put the asphalt down the same as with concrete slabs. So asphalt is the more convenient and less disruptive option.
But if it comes to durability, concrete is the better choice. Concrete is stronger than asphalt, and asphalt cracks more easily. Concrete can last up to 40 years while asphalt lasts only half as long, at 20 years.
The maintenance requirements for asphalt and concrete
Asphalt driveways are more likely to crack, but they are also easier to maintain. Concrete driveways, on the other hand, are less susceptible to cracking than asphalt but can be more difficult to repair. When choosing a driveway, consider the heat your driveway will be exposed to. Concrete is more heat-tolerant than asphalt so it would be a better choice to handle the heat of Australian climates however, concrete does not bode well in the extreme cold.
Concrete doesn’t need to be resealed every three to five years compared to asphalt. Concrete requires very little care if it is done properly, with the exception of very rare cracks. Petrol and oil stains are less obvious on asphalt and it is harder to clean from concrete. However, petrol could easily damage asphalt.
Which look is best?
You can choose which driveway you like. Most people prefer asphalt on driveways with a black finish. But concrete offers more options in terms of its final appearance and finishing. You can have several choices of concrete driveways: a coloured concrete drive, a concrete stencil driveway, stamped driveway, or an exposed gravel driveway. The options for a concrete driveway are almost limitless!
Concrete VS asphalt driveway: Summary
It is possible to choose the right driveway if you consider all the factors. It is important to consider the cost of your driveway, its durability, maintenance, ease of use, as well as its appearance. A reliable and professional local concreting company should be used to lay your driveway. They will help you make the right decision as they have years of experience and offers a workmanship guarantee. They will make sure that your driveway installation is painless and smooth!
