Laying Down the Pavement

Paving 101: Why Asphalt Might Be The Best Choice For Your Driveway

28 July 2022 by Clifton Sullivan

If you've decided that it's time to refinish your driveway, you might be thinking about a departure from the gravel that you're currently dealing with. If so, you may be considering asphalt or concrete instead. While concrete has its place, asphalt is often the best choice for a residential driveway solution. Here's a look at what you need to know about why asphalt is such a great choice.

Asphalt Is Affordable

One of the first things that you're likely to find is that an asphalt driveway is more affordable than a concrete one. You'll find that the price of your asphalt driveway will primarily be dependent upon how large the driveway is and how much preparation work is required to get the surface ready for asphalt application. However, you'll find that the price you're quoted for an asphalt driveway is often lower than that of concrete.

Asphalt Holds Up To Winter Weather

Another reason to consider asphalt over concrete is the fact that asphalt holds up against winter weather better than concrete. Asphalt is flexible, so it shifts when the ground freezes. Concrete is more rigid, which means it doesn't have that same flexibility, which makes it more likely to heave and crack in the winter season. If you get cold temperatures routinely through the winter, opt for asphalt instead so that your driveway flexes a little with the changing temperatures.

Asphalt Is Easy To Keep Looking Great

As concrete ages, it can become faded, stained, discolored, or otherwise unattractive. Asphalt can fade and discolor, too, but it's a lot easier (and more affordable) to make asphalt look new again. Talk with your asphalt installation contractor about how often you should have sealcoating applied to your driveway. That sealcoating is what will keep your asphalt looking brand new, so keep up with it to maintain your home's curb appeal.

Asphalt Is Long-Lasting

If you want a driveway that won't require extensive attention for at least a decade or so after installation, asphalt is a great choice. You'll get many years from your driveway investment if you choose asphalt, and you can extend that to the longest possible lifespan with sealcoating and annual inspections.

Talk with your paving contractor about any other considerations that make asphalt a good choice. That way, you can make an informed decision about whether or not it's the right solution for your driveway. The more you understand, the easier it is to see which applications are the best fit for asphalt paving. 

Contact a local residential asphalt paving company for more information. 

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