Asphalt application is used in transportation (railway beds, roads, and airport runaways). Moreover, it’s used in recreation facilities such as tennis courts and playgrounds. Asphalt repairs are relatively cheaper to cement repairs. Due to this fact, the average cost can range between 250 dollars and 6000 dollars depending on the damage. Asphalt fluctuates in the market due to fluctuations in crude oil; however, between the two, asphalt is cheaper than concrete. Many people prefer having asphalt in their driveways as it gives the landscape an aesthetic value.
In cases of home resales, there is a return of investment since the resale value is higher. Asphalt association represents the interests of asphalt trades and the interests of the contractor. The asphalt association promotes a natural base where citizens can gain more knowledge while enhancing asphalt’s social and economic benefits. Asphalt certification has different categories. When constructing a driveway or a playground, one needs to do one due diligence. A contractor must have an asphalt certification per the work to be performed.
Moreover, a contractor has to be asphalt certified. The pros of asphalt use are many and outweigh cement pros in terms of value, maintenance and cost. It is vital to ask your neighbors and the community at large what works best if you’re thinking of constructing a driveway.
It?s spring, and with spring comes a startling realization: your driveway is no longer looking as fresh as it used to. What can you do?
When a driveway is maintained and installed correctly, it can last for many years. Over time, though, even the toughest of driveways will begin to show cracks and crumbles. Here?s the important facts you need to know for your home.
Concrete v. Asphalt
The two top choices for paving a driveway are concrete, and asphalt.
Concrete is ideal because:
- It lasts the longest (up to 50 years) while asphalt will often need to be repaved every few years, and eventually requires replacement sooner.
- It can come in dozens of colors and hues, and even be stamped with patterns
- Concrete driveways are often considered the more aesthetically pleasing choice
Asphalt currently covers over 90% of America?s parking areas; any parking area you encounter today, is likely asphalt. Asphalt is considered ideal by others, considering that;
- When it has to be repairs, asphalt driveway repair tends to be less expensive. Concrete often requires removing larger sections to replace broken areas.
- It makes the most sense for very large areas (such as a commercial parking lot) where it would take too long, and be too complicated, to set concrete.
- For those concerned about the environment, asphalt can often be re-used; some projects use 100% recycled asphalt, in fact!
- Asphalt is more affordable initially, and can still last for a fair number of years.
- Asphalt driveways can be quickly installed, while concrete often needs several days to set.
What to Expect
No matter what, you?re going to get a driveway. If you need space for one car, then you?ll need a driveway eight to nine feet in width. A two car driveway, on the other hand, will need 15 to 18 feet (get closer to 18 if you have teenagers, or you won?t have side mirrors pretty soon!). If you?re wondering whether you need a repair or a replacement, it typically depends on the level of wear and tear your driveway has already experienced. If something extreme has happened — say, you are dealing with sunken driveways — then a driveway contractor will likely recommend a total replacement.
So: is concrete or asphalt right for you? There’s no definitive answer, and most people end up happy with whatever they choose. Take a look around your neighborhood, and feel free to ask your friends what works best for your local seasonal weather conditions.
