Concrete vs. Asphalt
Concrete and asphalt are both high-quality, durable, smooth paving options. It can be hard to know which one is the best option for your project. There is not one right answer for which one is better. Asphalt and concrete both perform better in certain environments and for different applications.
If you are deciding between various pavement options for your driveway, private road, or parking lot, we recommend you speak with contractors who specialize in each type of service to get their opinion. We provide free estimates on any asphalt paving project you may have, and are happy to let you know why we would (or would not!) recommend asphalt for your property.
If you are deciding between various pavement options for your driveway, private road, or parking lot, we recommend you speak with contractors who specialize in each type of service to get their opinion. We provide free estimates on any asphalt paving project you may have, and are happy to let you know why we would (or would not!) recommend asphalt for your property.
Differences between Asphalt and Concrete
Concrete
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Asphalt
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Design Options for Pavement Surfaces
When planning your project, you can customize your pavement with other design options. Stamped asphalt and stamped concrete allow you to have a design placed over the pavement surface. It can look like stone or brick work, or other designs. Another option is colored concrete or asphalt.
Not every paving contractor offers these options, and they can be more time intensive, but it can be a great way to have an eye catching finished product.
Not every paving contractor offers these options, and they can be more time intensive, but it can be a great way to have an eye catching finished product.
Other Options
While concrete and asphalt are the two most longest-lasting choices for paved surfaces, there are other options for driveways, parking lots, and roads.
Probably one of the simplest is dirt. Dirt becomes muddy in rain, and can be a very uneven driving surface. But for a basic no-fuss option, it is one of the easiest starting points.
Gravel is often the next step up from a dirt driveway or road. Gravel parking lots, driveways, and roads need regular maintenance and can wash out in rains. But they are inexpensive to install and can be maintained by the property owner.
Tar and chip is an asphalt-based paving or resurfacing solution. It consists of a layer of asphalt, and a layer of stone. The stone adheres to the asphalt. The surface looks like the gravel or stone, but won't wash away like gravel. However it has a much shorter lifespan than asphalt pavement, and is not as smooth. On the other hand, it is less expensive than asphalt and can provide your property a nice, rustic look.
Probably one of the simplest is dirt. Dirt becomes muddy in rain, and can be a very uneven driving surface. But for a basic no-fuss option, it is one of the easiest starting points.
Gravel is often the next step up from a dirt driveway or road. Gravel parking lots, driveways, and roads need regular maintenance and can wash out in rains. But they are inexpensive to install and can be maintained by the property owner.
Tar and chip is an asphalt-based paving or resurfacing solution. It consists of a layer of asphalt, and a layer of stone. The stone adheres to the asphalt. The surface looks like the gravel or stone, but won't wash away like gravel. However it has a much shorter lifespan than asphalt pavement, and is not as smooth. On the other hand, it is less expensive than asphalt and can provide your property a nice, rustic look.