Whether you're looking for a new driveway or want to redo an old one, you should know the differences between asphalt driveway and concrete. Asphalt is much easier to maintain than concrete and is better at draining rainwater. Concrete, on the other hand, has a longer lifespan. In this article, we'll look at the pros and cons of each material. You'll also learn how cold weather affects both types of driveways.
Cold weather affects asphalt driveway Vs concrete
When choosing between asphalt and concrete driveways, you need to know which material is suitable for your climate. Cold weather can cause concrete to crack, which means you must use de-icing products to keep the driveway safe. Concrete, on the other hand, is susceptible to damage from salt.
If you live in an area where cold weather can ruin a driveway, you should consider installing an asphalt driveway instead. It will keep your home warmer, add curb appeal and improve safety. Compared to concrete, asphalt will cost you about half as much to install. However, you should consider that asphalt prices are constantly fluctuating with the price of crude oil.
Another difference between asphalt and concrete driveways is that asphalt can expand and contract with cold weather. The constant freezing and thawing cycle of extreme cold can cause the asphalt to buckle and crack. Snow can also damage the surface of asphalt. In extreme cases, it can even affect the process of paving.
In warmer climates, concrete is a better choice for driveways. The temperature remains cooler, which makes it a more comfortable surface for walking, parking cars, or riding motorcycles. While asphalt can be a little sticky during the hotter weather, concrete will stay colder longer and is more resistant to cracking and heaving.
Both asphalt and concrete driveways need maintenance. The former is more susceptible to cracking, which is a concern, but it is relatively easy to patch up any cracks with a rubber sealer and the repairs won't be noticeable. In contrast, concrete is more difficult to repair and requires more money upfront. Even if it costs more, it will save you money in the long run. The asphalt driveway is a bit more expensive than the concrete one, so if you don't want to spend a lot of money to make repairs, consider concrete instead.
Asphalt driveways are easier to maintain
Choosing an asphalt driveway for your home is the smart choice if you're looking to improve the appearance of your property and increase the value of your home. Unlike concrete, asphalt is much easier to maintain. You can repair cracks and potholes easily, and the repairs will blend in with the rest of the driveway. In addition, you won't have to worry about rust or oil stains if you choose an asphalt driveway. Another benefit of asphalt is that it is environmentally friendly. It is recyclable, and you can use the same material for a new driveway.
The cost of an asphalt driveway is usually half the cost of a concrete driveway. However, asphalt's lifespan is much shorter and it is limited to a single color. If you want a different color, you'll have to be more creative. Nonetheless, an asphalt driveway is probably the best option for saving money in the long run. However, keep in mind that resurfacing asphalt may require higher maintenance costs.
Asphalt's dark surface conceals dirt and stains, making it easier to repair cracks than concrete. Concrete can also be prone to spalling, which means that the top layer will peel off over time. In addition, asphalt is more prone to absorbing heat. Consequently, it's not a good choice for hot climates. On the other hand, asphalt is more resistant to cold temperatures, which means that it will stand up better to extreme temperatures.
Asphalt driveways are easier to maintain than concrete, but both require regular maintenance. Unlike concrete, asphalt driveways need to be resurfaced every three to five years and have their top layers sealed every six months. In addition, the top layer of asphalt can oxidize if it's not maintained properly, so it's important to make sure the top layer of the driveway is sealed. Additionally, asphalt is not an ideal choice for hot climates, because it can absorb heat and should not be walked on barefoot.
Asphalt driveways need resealing every few years, but they are generally more affordable than concrete driveways. Sealing the asphalt will help preserve the finish and make it look more attractive. After applying the sealer, you can also perform degreasing on the asphalt driveway to remove stains, fuel and oil.
Asphalt driveways drain rainwater better
If you have an asphalt driveway, you may wonder how to drain rainwater better. While the most common causes of standing water are out of your control, there are a few things you can do to improve water drainage. One of the most important things is to avoid letting automotive fluids or other substances penetrate the asphalt. Another important thing to do is to keep the drainage system clear of debris. A clogged system will cause water to pool and can also damage the pavement.
It can be difficult to maintain a driveway that is covered in asphalt, especially in the spring. But if you keep it well maintained, you can avoid a lot of problems that can affect your driveway. The spring season brings a large amount of water, so you'll need to make sure you take steps to prevent cracks and potholes.
Another way to make your asphalt driveway more environmentally friendly is to use recycled asphalt. This type of asphalt does not require excessive heating, so it can be a great way to reduce the negative impact of asphalt driveways. Another option is to choose cold-mixed asphalt. This type of asphalt is better for the environment because it doesn't require the use of excessive heat to install it.
Another important thing to consider is the grading of your driveway. If the driveway has significant dips or slopes in one direction or another, it is likely that the water is not draining properly. Not only is this unsightly, but it can also lead to safety issues. Poor grading can cause pools of water, which can cause damage and even pose a hazard.
Proper drainage is an important part of asphalt driveway maintenance. While it can be done at the time of installation, it is best to start it at an early stage of installation. However, if it is not done at the time of installation, it can be added later. This will ensure that your driveway will drain better in the future.
Concrete driveways have a longer lifespan
The average lifespan of a concrete driveway is between twenty and fifty years, depending on the type and amount of concrete used. The lifespan of a concrete driveway is also affected by environmental factors, such as rainfall, soil compaction, and climate. Proper maintenance and regular sealing are important to ensure a long-lasting driveway.
A sealer is necessary to protect concrete driveways from cracking. The sealer should be applied to the concrete surface after the driveway is installed. The sealer should be applied to the driveway once a year, ideally during the fall, to ensure that the driveway will withstand the harsh winter weather.
While de-icing chemicals make the snow and ice removal process much easier in the winter, these chemicals can increase the deterioration of a concrete driveway. The harsh chemicals can cause spalling and scaling. Luckily, there are gentler alternatives. Avoid products containing ammonium sulfates and nitrates, as they can cause damage to concrete.
When properly maintained, concrete driveways can last up to 25 years. Their lifespan depends on the amount of concrete used and the quality of construction. A basic concrete driveway can cost between four to eight dollars per square foot, with the national average of around $6 per square foot. The price can rise to over $20 per square foot if you want a stamped finish, colored, or marbleized finish, or if you want to replace an existing slab. Still, this material is relatively inexpensive, especially when you consider how long it will last.
The installation of a concrete driveway begins with removing any vegetation and preparing a solid foundation. Once this is completed, wood forms are installed around the perimeter of the driveway. The base is covered with a layer of class five gravel. The gravel must be graded and compacted to ensure stability. Afterwards, reinforcement material is added, which consists of steel wire grid and metal rebar arranged in a crisscross pattern.