Asphalt or Concrete: Which Driveway Should You Choose?

asphalt driveway

What kind of driveway will you choose?

Whether you are ripping out your old driveway or installing one for the first time, you will have a decision to make: concrete or asphalt? Choosing between concrete and asphalt for your driveway is a big decision that will affect you for years to come. There are many advantages and disadvantages to choosing one of these materials for your home. So how do you choose between them? Let’s take a look at both asphalt and concrete to help you decide which materials is better for your driveway.

Concrete Driveway

Concrete driveways are ideal for warmer climates as they do not become soft in intense heat and sunlight. These driveways also require minimal maintenance to stay nice. One of the main complaints about concrete driveways are the oil stains that can appear if your car is parked in the driveway. While this may not be a problem for all cars and homeowners, oil stains do tend to show more while on a white surface. During the winter, concrete driveways may be susceptible to salt damage. Concrete is also not as easily repaired as asphalt. You will have to replace the entire section of your driveway in order to fix the cracking problem.

Paved Asphalt Driveway

Paved asphalt driveways is an inexpensive option for your driveway and may be a good option for your home if you are on a budget. But what you will save on money, you will spend on time maintaining your new driveway. Asphalt will need to be sealed every few years to keep the driveway nice and crack-free. Once the asphalt is sealed, you will not be able to walk or drive on it for two to three days while the seal is setting into the material. Unlike concrete, asphalt can become soft during the hot summer months, leaving them susceptible to damage from heavy vehicles sitting on them for too long. However, asphalt driveways are easily repaired if they become damaged. Fillers can be used to fill any cracks in the material, leaving your driveway looking like new.

When choosing a new material for your driveway, it is important for you to consider the pros and cons of each material. For more information on choosing material for your driveway, call Testa Paving today!

Choosing Your Driveway Material with Tasta Paving!

Testa Paving is ready to help repair or replace your asphalt surface (or help you determine which is more appropriate)! For over 35 years, we have provided northern Virginia and Maryland with top-notch expertise and customer service. Interested in learning how we can help with your patio project? Give us a call at (301) 663-5861 or visit us online. To see examples of our work and keep in touch, follow us on PinterestGoogle+FacebookLinkedIn, and Twitter today!