When you decide to have a new driveway paved, you have two main options for the paving material. You can choose between either asphalt and concrete. While both options are suitable, they both have their own strengths and potential drawbacks. This includes details related to their appearance, maintenance, and cost.
What Is the Difference Between Asphalt and Concrete?
Asphalt and concrete are both made of sand and stone. They both require a compact base before the paving contractor begins paving. The main difference is the adhesive. Asphalt uses tar and concrete uses cement. The adhesive provides different results with the finished product.
Asphalt and Concrete Can Last for Decades
One of the only advantages of the cement used in concrete is durability. Concrete is the more durable option. A new concrete driveway may last over 40 years.
Asphalt requires sealing six to twelve months after the paving contractor paves the driveway. Sealing is then repeated every three to five years to increase the durability of the asphalt.
While asphalt is not as durable as concrete, working with an experienced paving contractor in Mount Vernon, WA ensures proper application. This can extend the lifespan of the driveway to 30 years or more.
Asphalt Is Easy to Repair and More Affordable
Asphalt is not as durable as concrete, but it is more affordable. In some cases, the cost of asphalt is half the price of concrete. Visit Business Name to request a price estimate or learn more about paving services.
Along with the lower cost of asphalt paving, you may spend less on repairs. Asphalt is easier to repair than concrete and the repairs are less noticeable. You also have the option to hire a paving contractor to resurface an asphalt driveway. Resurfacing adds a fresh top layer on an asphalt surface, which is not an option with concrete.
While concrete is often the first choice for residential driveways, asphalt provides some great advantages. It is often more affordable, easy to repair, and it can always get resurfaced later on down the road.