Your driveway is more than just a conduit to the garage or a place to park your car. It’s part of the exterior design of your home. You want it to be practical of course but aesthetics can also play a role.
A dirt driveway is functional but gets muddy in the rain. Gravel looks nice but can chip the paint on your car. Both surfaces are difficult to shovel or plow when it snows.
A paved driveway is a good option. You can choose asphalt or concrete. Which is better?
Reaction to Weather
Before you search for paving companies near me, consider the factors. Asphalt tends to soften up in hot weather while concrete can crack or buckle when it gets really cold. The climate of the area in which you live should be considered.
Aesthetics
A well-paved asphalt driveway looks nice but is going to be either black or dark grey. Concrete can be stained in virtually any color to match the outside decor of your house. This may be important to your decision.
Cost
Naturally, your budget is going to play a role in which surface you choose. Concrete is significantly more expensive than asphalt, typically costing 40 to 50% more. If you can afford both, it won’t matter. Those on a tight budget may be better served to lean toward asphalt.
Maintenance
Both surfaces need periodic maintenance as they will eventually crack. Asphalt is softer and needs more frequent repairs. However, fixing cracks in asphalt is easier and less expensive than doing the same in concrete. Do your research to figure out the best bet for maintenance costs. Concrete also lasts longer, so factor that in.
A paved driveway offers advantages over dirt or gravel. The two main paving materials are asphalt and concrete. Each has its pros and cons. Consider these carefully and choose the one that suits you best.