Are you a homeowner just like me? Well, I’m pretty sure you also had your fair share of the upkeeps of a driveway. You know that we can’t just let that trusty driveway get all raggedy and torn away. And it’s always a debate in my brain cells whether to take the concrete way or the asphalt route. Hmmm, asking the same thing right now, huh? But tell you what, read through and know some pros and cons for each.
The Basics: Left, or Right?
At first glance, asphalt and concrete could seem rather similar because driveways are paved with both materials. However, it’s clear how different they are from one another when you look closely. Mixed with sand, broken rock, and binders derived from petroleum, asphalt is a thick, viscous black substance. It is similar to that black, sticky and stinky substance they use to patch holes on the road. I think they call it tar. Concrete, on the “left” hand, is a long-lasting compound from a mixture of cement, water, and sand, or sometimes, they use gravel. It feels much more substantial and industrial.
Looks Can Be Deceiving
One of the first things you’ll notice about these two driveway materials is the way they look. Asphalt has a nice, smooth, uniform black finish that gives it a sleek, modern vibe. Concrete, meanwhile, can range anywhere from a light grey to a more textured, patterned look, depending on how it’s finished. But I know plenty of folks who prefer the more dynamic, customisable appearance of concrete. What best fits your home’s overall style and your own preferences are what matter most.
Several hours were spent looking at various driveway samples and trying to imagine how they would compliment the rest of my house while I was renovating it a few years back. In the end, I chose asphalt because I felt it added a clean, contemporary accent that unified the entire area. Of course, if you’re looking at creating a rustic appeal to your home, concrete is an understandable choice.
Clock it: Your precious time!
The installation procedure is another significant distinction between driveways made of asphalt and concrete. The speedier and simpler alternative is unquestionably asphalt; all it takes is one layer to get started, and you’ll be ready to go in a few hours. Conversely, concrete requires a little more time and work. You’ve gotta pour the foundation, let it cure for days, and then finish it off.
I remember when I had my asphalt driveway put in, the crew showed up one morning and had the whole thing done by lunchtime. It was crazy – one minute, there was just dirt, and the next, it was like a professional racetrack in my front yard. With the concrete driveway at my old place, though, it was a whole production. They had to block off the area for nearly a week while they worked their magic. I felt bad for my neighbours, having to park on the street and all, but in the end, it was worth it to get that beautiful, sturdy concrete surface.
Maintenance Mayhem
In relation to an asphalt vs concrete driveway, maintenance is another important factor to take into account. Asphalt needs more frequent sealing to maintain its finest appearance, which means more manual maintenance.
Although the occasional chip or crack that needs to be fixed is more likely with concrete, it still requires upkeep. I have no problem going above and above to keep my asphalt driveway looking great. The smooth, seamless appearance that I adore is well worth the minor cost.
Show Me the Money
Now, let’s talk about the all-important matter of price, fee, cost, money. To cut to the chase, asphalt is usually the less expensive option initially. When long-term maintenance costs are considered, however, this discrepancy starts to narrow slightly. Although the cost of installing concrete may initially be higher, in the long run, it can wind up saving you money. Just when buying pricey shoes, investing in high-quality shoes will probably pay off in the long term due to their greater initial cost and higher quality.
I’ll never forget the sticker shock I felt when I got the quote for my concrete driveway back in the day. It was easily twice as much as the asphalt would have been. Nevertheless, after doing some math, I came to the conclusion that I would most likely wind up paying as much, if not more, due to all the seal-coating and small repairs I would be conducting on the asphalt over time. Ultimately, concrete proves to be a more prudent investment despite its slightly higher initial cost.
The “Asphalt vs Concrete Driveway” Debate
Of course, speed and ease of installation aren’t the only factors to consider. Durability is a big one, too. And when it comes to withstanding the test of time, concrete has a definite advantage. It’s an absolute workhorse that can handle heavy loads and weather the elements for decades. It can endure heavy weight due to asphalt’s sticky texture. The problem is that it will eventually fade and crack from normal wear and tear, just like everything else. The choice is still yours to make, but concrete speaks of durability.
With my most recent asphalt driveway, I discovered that the hard way. In a matter of years, I began to observe several little fissures and divots appearing. It was really unfortunate, particularly because I had only had it sealed a few years earlier. In the meantime, even after fifteen years, the concrete driveway of my previous residence appeared almost brand new. Yes, there were the occasional small repairs, but nothing compared to the ongoing maintenance that the asphalt needed.
When deciding between an asphalt and concrete driveway, it’s crucial to understand the differences to make an informed choice for your property. If you’re leaning towards concrete, we highly recommend considering Depend Exteriors for your cement board stucco systems needs. With our expertise in exterior solutions, including concrete driveways, we ensure high-quality workmanship and durable results. Explore our services to enhance the curb appeal and longevity of your property.
Ready for a new driveway?
At the end of the day, the decision between a “asphalt vs. concrete driveway” primarily comes down to personal preference, budget, and architectural needs. Asphalt driveways can be a simple and inexpensive solution that yet looks very good. However, concrete might be a better alternative if you’re willing to pay a little bit more up front for a long-lasting, low-maintenance surface.
Regardless of your path, the most crucial thing is to collaborate with a trustworthy contractor, such as the Australian group at Whitleah Asphalt. Their abilities to evaluate your circumstances, provide you with professional guidance, and guarantee that you have a driveway you will be pleased with for many years to come will be evident. You might as well make your driveway appear nice since it’s the first thing guests notice when they arrive at your house.
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