With 83% of Canadians owning cars, it makes sense that homeowners want to install a driveway on their property.
Comparing the benefits of concrete and asphalt is key to finding the right option for your home and deciding which aligns with your budget or lifestyle. However, knowing where to start your research can feel stressful if you've never been in a concrete vs. asphalt driveway debate.
If this sounds too familiar, we've got you covered. Here are the pros and cons of both.
Pros and Cons of Concrete
To start our concrete vs. asphalt driveway debate, we must discuss the perks of the former. This is one of the most popular driveway options because concrete is practical and versatile. For instance, homeowners can choose from different finishes, such as tinted, broomed, or stamped, depending on their preference.
Concrete is also renowned for being low maintenance. Because of this, homeowners get peace of mind knowing that they needn't regularly seal the driveway or worry about pesky weeds.
On the flip side, if you notice a crack in the concrete, you must call a driveway paving contractor to rip up the entire drive and start again. Staining can also be an issue because of the material's light colour. As a result, homeowners may notice oil or tire marks on their driveway in time.
Further, concrete is known for being less durable, which means it may not survive Canadian winters or sweltering summers. In addition, salt used on the roads can play havoc on concrete. Salt causes the ice and snow to melt which then is absorbed into the concrete. The mixture then freezes and causes the concrete to break off in tiny pieces thus ruining your nicely prepared surface.
Pros and Cons of Asphalt
Asphalt is another one of the most popular types of driveways available. Homeowners love how affordable it is because asphalt can last up to 20 years or more when properly maintained.
Thanks to its fast installation and usability, it also wins a point in the concrete vs. asphalt driveway debate. Unlike concrete, homeowners needn't wait a week to use their driveway as it's ready in two days.
Another benefit of an asphalt driveway is its ability to withstand extreme Canadian winters. You can easily remove ice and snow without damaging the material. It's also the go-to solution if you have multiple cars and are worried about your driveway warping under the weight.
Like concrete driveways, asphalt can suffer cracks, especially when exposed to heat. As a result, homeowners must regularly maintain and seal their driveways to prolong their lifespan. If it sounds daunting, contact a local paving contractor like Custom Blacktop Co., and we'll examine the problem and sort it out for you.
Concrete vs. Asphalt Driveway: Which Will You Choose?
Now that you've deep-dived into the benefits of concrete and asphalt driveways, making an informed decision will be easier.
Concrete has many advantages, from being aesthetically pleasing to its low-maintenance nature. However, homeowners must factor in asphalt's perks, such as its durability and fast installation and affordability. Make sure you weigh the pros and cons before making a final decision. Good luck!
At Custom Blacktop Co., we love helping homeowners discover the driveway of their dreams. If you're in Vancouver, Burnaby, Coquitlam, Surrey, and anywhere in the Greater Vancouver area, contact us for more information.