Concrete vs. Asphalt Driveways – Which is better?

Are you planning to build a new driveway or perhaps constructing a new home and need to pave your Driveways in Melbourne? When it comes to installing a new driveway, the biggest decision is to choose between the concrete and asphalt. They are similar but have key differences which you need to consider before making a decision.

Though they vary in many ways, they also share some similarities. Both asphalt and concrete have a gravel base made of stone and sand. The primary difference is the adhesive materials. Concrete is made of cement while asphalt is petroleum based. This simple variance can lead to several differences between the materials. Let’s ponder deeper:

1. Expense
   
   
   On an average, concrete can cost 50% more than asphalt, making asphalt driveways a cheaper and better value for money. Here you need to keep in mind that the prices of asphalt driveways tend to vary with fluctuations in crude oil prices. Details, finishes and stains can increase the overall expense.
   
   
2. Maintenance and repairs
   
   
   While considering installing an asphalt driveway, you need to understand the maintenance and repairs that accompany it. Usually, after six months or a year after the installation, an asphalt driveway needs to be sealed and later sealed again every 3-5 years. This extends the life of the driveways.
   
   
   However, concrete driveways don’t require as much sealing. Sealing can enhance the look and preserve the finish of the concrete driveways; so many homeowners opt for it. Degreasers increase the maintenance costs, but it’s a mandatory option to remove oil, fuel and chemical stains that build up over time.
   
   
   Cracks affect both concrete and asphalt driveways and should be repaired on time. You’ll find that asphalt cracks are easier to fix and result in more aesthetically pleasing repairs. While on the other hand, concrete cracks are harder to repair and impossible to resurface.
   
   
3. Design & Aesthetic
   
   
   When it comes to the look of your driveways in Melbourne, pavement material plays a vital role. You can tint, stain, etch or stamp concrete driveways to achieve the desired look. Finishes provide alternative colour or hues.
   
   
   Whereas asphalt need to be rolled and compressed during installation. Finishes, stamping or etching is not a good idea for asphalt driveways. You can use sealants contain tints or colouring to enhance the aesthetic appeal of your asphalt driveway.
   
   
   
   
4. Climate and Weather
   
   
   Melbourne homeowners need to consider how climate and weather patterns affect their pavement decisions. In colder climates, without any doubt asphalt is a better material to use for driveways. Let’s look at the reasons behind it:

• Asphalt is not affected by cold and doesn’t deteriorate from salt use
• Concrete is prone to expansion and contraction
• Concrete deteriorates with salt use, it is spread on roads to melt snow
• Asphalt pavement absorbs more heat and causes snow and ice to melt rapidly than concrete.

All in all, there are numerous factors that you need to consider while choosing a driveway. From appearance, the initial cost to repair and maintenance needs, you need to consider all. Moreover, specific questions such as the climate you live in, wear and tear you exert on the driveways and any personal restrictions should be considered as well.

If you are planning for Asphalt Driveway in Melbourne, Custom Asphalt can help. We focus on asphalt products at highly competitive pricing. We have more than 15 years of industry experience and specialise in asphalt driveways. To discuss, get in touch with us today!