Should You Choose Asphalt or Concrete for Your Paving Project?
When paving a commercial driveway, the options tend to come down to asphalt vs concrete. Most property managers consider asphalt the higher-end option, but concrete costs more. Is asphalt the better option or is concrete worth the higher price? That ultimately depends on what your needs are and who you ask.
Climate
More often than not, construction professionals recommend concrete for warmer weather and asphalt for colder weather. That’s because concrete tends to expand and contract with weather conditions, which can create damage as the years go by. Salt used to de-ice roads can also damage concrete driveways. Asphalt handles cold weather and salt much better.
Maintenance
Despite being better suited for cold weather and salt, asphalt needs a lot of maintenance, regardless of the climate. While you can expect frequent repairs, it might not cost much. Concrete requires almost no maintenance, especially in its earlier years. When it does need repairs, it does cost more than asphalt.
Longevity
Concrete outlasts asphalt by at least a decade. It can last for 30 to 40 years, whereas asphalt lasts for 20 to 30 years. The actual lifespan depends on proper installation, continued maintenance and repairs, and its use. Poorly maintained driveways of any kind that service big trucks, for example, can fail in just a few years. Keep in mind that asphalt requires sealing while concrete does not.
Convenience
When you install concrete, it can take about a week for it to cure properly. Otherwise, all it might take is one large truck to leave imprints. In contrast, asphalt driveways become usable in just a few days. Consequently, it’s important to think about loading dock access, trash pickup, and other important tasks factors at that time. Our professionals at NVM Paving & Concrete are proud to be part of one of the top-rated paving companies in the Baltimore or D.C. area. Whether you choose an asphalt or concrete driveway, we have the resources to bring it to life. Call us at 703.426.2700 to request your estimate today.
