Asphalt and concrete both make for reliable driveways, but if you’re about to have a new driveway installed, the choice between them can be difficult. What are the differences?
Asphalt driveways are slightly cheaper. They cure more quickly but will need to be sealed a few months after installation and then again every couple of years after that. Asphalt driveways perform very well in cooler climates and are easier to clear of ice too. Asphalt driveways will not do well in hotter climates as they can soften, on the other hand, and visually, asphalt is more or less a one-look-fits-all approach.
Concrete driveways are a pricier option, but the lifespan of a concrete driveway will also stretch further in the right circumstances. This material is often the better choice for hotter climates, while it can be damaged both as a result of extremely cold temperatures and efforts to de-ice it. The fact that concrete stains more easily also has an upside — you will have the option to customize the color of your concrete driveway.
Concrete and asphalt driveways both have great advantages as well as serious disadvantages, and the better choice ultimately depends on your climate, budget, and personal preferences.