Asphalt or Concrete?

Asphalt or Concrete?

It's easy to forget about your driveway when you renovate your home. However, you should not overlook the potential impact that a new driveway could have on your property's overall aesthetic. If you are thinking of replacing your driveway, one of the most important questions you need to ask is which type of material you should choose. It is crucial to choose the right driveway material regardless of whether you are building a new house or updating an existing one. Concrete and asphalt are the two main types for driveway paving. The most common question is "What's the difference between an asphalt and concrete driveway?" When choosing asphalt or concrete for your next project, there are several things you should consider. Let's discuss the important factors you need to consider when making your decision.

Climate

It is important to consider the climate of the area where the project is taking place. Asphalt is the best material for driveways, streets and parking lots in areas with harsh winters. Here are some reasons why asphalt is so popular:

• Concrete can be affected by expansion, contraction, damage, and deterioration as well as frost heaves and freeze.
• Concrete is affected by salt, which is used to melt snow and ice.
• Salt will not cause asphalt to crack and is resistant to the effects of cold.
• Concrete and asphalt are more sensitive to heat than asphalt, so snow and ice melt much faster.

Asphalt is more beneficial in colder climates than it is in warmer ones. Concrete is the better choice in these situations. Asphalt pavement becomes greasy and brittle in extreme heat.

Paving Materials' Impact on the Environment

Did you know asphalt is an environmentally friendly paving material? Asphalt can be recycled, making it a green technology. When the asphalt is recycled, it is ground up and re-used. Concrete must be removed and disposed off in a safe manner. Certain asphalt types, such as porous and permeable asphalt, allow water to soak into the asphalt below. This aids water drainage. Water must be drained from concrete edges into local streams and water tables.

Differences Between Asphalt and Concrete

You should be aware that asphalt and concrete are very similar. There are two types of asphalt and concrete that you can choose from for your driveway. Concrete and asphalt are both made of similar materials. However, asphalt can be made from gravel, sand or crushed rock, while concrete is made up of cement, water, cement, aggregates, and concrete. These small differences can have a big impact on the final outcome. Concrete and asphalt both have a gravel foundation. Stone and sand can be used in both. The type of glue used is the key difference between them. Concrete is made from cement, while asphalt is made from petroleum. This simple variance can lead to a wide range of differences between materials. These are the five main differences between concrete and asphalt driveways:

1. Repairs and maintenance

Cracks and potholes in asphalt driveways can be easily fixed. The repairs will be in line with the rest of the driveway's appearance. Asphalt is inherently black and does not show oil stains or rust. Concrete is generally more durable than asphalt, but it's also more costly and more difficult to maintain. Concrete is easy to stain because of its light color. Concrete needs to be maintained by regular power washing and lubrication.

2. Cost

Asphalt is cheaper than concrete. This can help you to save money on driveway paving costs. Asphalt Bend Oregon is a better option if you have limited funds for road remodeling. Concrete driveways are more expensive than asphalt pavement. Asphalt pavement can be twice as expensive as concrete. Concrete will cost you more in the long-term. Asphalt driveways are more expensive and require more maintenance.

3. Durability and long-term viability

Asphalt materials require more preventative maintenance. However, this allows asphalt to last longer and look great. Concrete on the other side tends to lose its freshness much faster than other materials. With good care asphalt pavement can last for over twenty years. It is also much more affordable than concrete when it has to be replaced. Concrete on the other side is a stronger, more durable option that can be maintained and degreased regularly for up to 50 year.

4. Installation

Asphalt Bend Oregon is a much easier way to install pavements. It only takes a few hours for it to dry before it can be used. Concrete takes several days to fully dry. Concrete cures in seven days so you don't want tire marks on your driveway. You can drive right away, even though the asphalt takes two to three days to dry completely.

There are many things to consider when choosing between an asphalt driveway or a concrete driveway. You should consider the driveway's appearance, cost, and maintenance costs. You should also consider other factors, such as your environment, driveway wear, and personal limitations.

Give us a call when you are ready to invest in your home or company. We are available to help you throughout the entire life of your project. Asphalt Bend Oregon is the best asphalt contractor in the area. We can help you make your asphalt look its best.