It’s the age old battle between concrete and asphalt again. Both are popular choices when it comes to driveways but one is not like the other. In this blog, we will finally settle the best driveway material for your property. Is it concrete or asphalt? Read on.

Maintenance

Aside from the cost of the material, another thing to consider before installing a concrete or asphalt driveway is maintenance. Asphalt should be sealed within 6 months to a year after installation. Then, it’s going to need to be resealed again every 3 to 5 years.

This is because asphalt is porous. It can absorb water very well and has very good drainage capabilities. The problem here is that you need to keep resealing your driveway so that it lasts a long time. This can be inconvenient especially since asphalt sealing works best during the hottest months of the year.

Concrete on the other hand is a low maintenance product. Once it has been poured and allowed to cure, it stays as it is for a long time. Concrete just needs occasional cleaning or power washing if you want to. It is weather-proof, chemical resistant and can withstand all kinds of traffic for many years.  If you have an aging asphalt driveway and need a new one, consider a concrete driveway replacement instead.

Versatility

Asphalt’s color is usually dark gray or black, which is why many of us refer to it as a “blacktop” driveway. When it comes to versatility and personalization, that’s all you get from asphalt: either a dark gray or black color.

Concrete on the other hand is the king of versatility. There are many options for concrete. For example, you can stamp, stain, color or etch it in order to personalize your driveway. Concrete installers can make your concrete driveway look like European cobblestones or stamp it in ashlar pattern to make it distinct and different from your neighbor’s blacktop.

Durability

Asphalt lasts 15-20 years with proper care and maintenance. Keep in mind that you need to reseal your driveway over 3 to 5 years so that it can last this long.

When it comes to durability, concrete wins this round hands down. Homeowners who perform regular cleaning and maintenance on their driveway can expect the surface to last anywhere between 30 to 50 years. This is good value for money, even if it is more expensive to install compared to asphalt.

Cost

No matter where you live, installing an asphalt or concrete driveway is going to be an investment. When it comes to driveway material, asphalt is less expensive than concrete, but lacks the clean, modern look that makes concrete worth the investment.

In general, asphalt requires less labor to install because there is less prep work needed for the ground before it can be poured. However, the cost of asphalt installation can fluctuate with oil prices because it is made from petroleum products. So when gas prices are high, you can expect asphalt to cost just as much as concrete.

Takeaway

Asphalt is more affordable in terms of installation cost and is a long wearing material for your driveway. However, if you care about curb appeal and want versatility, easy maintenance and durability, go for a concrete driveway.

With a new concrete driveway in Glen Ellyn, you get a very durable surface that can last decades with minimal maintenance. Best of all, concrete can be personalized so that your driveway looks unique and beautiful.

FAQ

Which type of driveway is more durable: concrete or asphalt?

Generally speaking, concrete driveways are more durable compared to asphalt driveways. Concrete has a longer lifespan and can last up to 40 years with proper maintenance compared to asphalt driveways that usually last up to 30 years. Concrete is also more hardwearing and can withstand harsh weather conditions better than asphalt.

Which type of driveway requires more maintenance: concrete or asphalt?

Asphalt driveways generally need more maintenance compared to concrete driveways. Asphalt needs to be resealed every 3-5 years depending on your climate and usage to prevent water infiltration, UV damage and oxidation. It also needs more repairs due to its softer consistency.

Concrete on the other hand is low-maintenance. They will need occasional repairs for cracks and sealing it every 5-10 years can help it extend its lifespan. Concrete driveways are also less prone to developing potholes.