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Asphalt paved driveways are typically cheaper to
install than concrete paved driveways. However,
asphalt paved driveways need significant more
care over time to protect them. Asphalt paved
driveways need to be sealed at least once every
3-5 years. Each sealing, though easily completed
by a do it yourself homeowner, costs money and
time. In addition, the sealer needs typically
2-3 days to dry before you can park a vehicle on
it. Also, a newly asphalt paved driveway should
not be sealed for at least 6-9 months, as the
light oils associated with the asphalt need to
evaporate first. If an asphalt driveway is
sealed too soon it will remain soft forever.
Asphalt driveways do not need to be always black
and concrete driveways do not always need to be
off-white. Both asphalt and concrete driveways
can be tinted to various colors. Check with your
prospective paving contractors first to see what
color options there are for your driveway
project.
Asphalt driveways, if maintained can typically
last 25-30 years. Concrete driveways can last
even longer. However, both require a solid
foundation to be laid on. If not laid on a solid
foundation both will crack over time, especially
in colder weather climates. Asphalt cracks are
easier to repair than concrete driveway cracks.
Consideration for the slope of the driveway
should also be considered when contemplating
concrete driveways. Over time, concrete
driveways can shear off of the foundation they
are poured on which can lead to unwanted cracks. |
