Why Concrete Driveways are Better than Asphalt

If you’re in the market for a new driveway but you’re not sure if you should go with concrete or asphalt, you’ve come to the right place! Asphalt and concrete driveways are similar, but they have a few key differences that should be considered before you make a decision.

Cost

While asphalt driveways generally cost a little less up front than concrete driveways, they will cost more over time because of maintenance. Moreover, fluctuations in crude oil prices can cause pricey fluctuations in asphalt. So if you’re looking for the best overall cost when considering maintenance factors in, concrete is the way to go. Unlike asphalt, concrete doesn’t require as much maintenance; they don’t need to be sealed on a scheduled basis like asphalt does, and can last upwards of 50 years.

Durability and Maintenance

Concrete is extremely durable and long-lasting; the only maintenance you should have to do will concern very light sealing and degreasing to prevent stains. Tar, on the other hand, is softer—making it less durable—and it degrades easier, as well as faster. After about six months after its installation, the tar will need to be sealed. And it’ll need to be subsequently sealed every three to five years over its lifetime.

Aesthetics

While aesthetics are highly subjective, there are some things you should take into consideration.

Concrete driveways can have:

• Different finishes to choose from, to get exactly the look you want.
• Different stains and tints available, with an array of shades and colors.
• Different designs that can be etched, engraved or stamped (such as a brushed look).
• Whereas asphalt looks pretty much the same no matter what.

Climate Factors

If you live in an area with extremely hot or cold temperatures, how your driveway will hold up in those temperatures should be an important consideration. The tar in asphalt has issues in hot temperatures; it becomes tacky and soft, and it can get deformed the more it’s driven over and subjected to the heat. Concrete does not.

R&M Concrete

If you’re in the market for a new concrete driveway, R&M Concrete can help. We’re a family-owned business located in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma. We have an experienced project team that can work with you every step of the way; from design to completion. We work on projects of all sizes, across Virginia, Mississippi, Louisiana, Georgia, Arizona, and Oklahoma. Give us a call today at 918-809-2235.