Asphalt vs Concrete Driveway
At Interhome Construction we get this question a lot from home and property owners. Which is better, an asphalt or concrete driveway?
The question can be answered depending on several factors.
- Cost of driveway installation
- Longevity of driveway
- Amount of usage your driveway goes through
- Maintenance needs
- Adding value to your property
- Return on investment
Concrete Driveways
Concrete is a very durable building material and that is why a lot of homeowners choose it. If concrete is sealed also that prolongs its life and protects it from corrosion by salt and the cold temperature fluctuations. Concrete driveways cost more but have a better return on investment. When it comes to the value of your property, a concrete driveway will increase it. Concrete driveways are more expensive to install than asphalt driveways. They have a longer lifespan than asphalt driveways but it costs more to repair them. A concrete driveway that has been sealed properly can last up to 5 years before any cracks or potholes appear. Another thing you need to consider is how much usage your driveway will have. Do you have two or more cars parking on your driveway? Do you park a heavy truck or other heavy vehicles on it? When it comes to how much wear and tear a driveway can take, concrete driveways are definitely better.
Asphalt Driveways
Asphalt driveways are a cheaper and faster installation solution. An asphalt driveway can be installed usually in a day. The cost is about half or two thirds of a concrete driveway depending on size. Asphalt driveways can withstand temperature fluctuations better and corrosion from salt. Repairs to cracks and potholes are cheaper than concrete driveways, which means that maintenance overall is cheaper. Sealing your asphalt driveway is also important. A sealing application will protect your asphalt driveway for about 2 years before you see signs of wear. More frequent sealing is required with asphalt to minimize signs of wear. An asphalt driveway adds less value to your property than a concrete one.
Interhome Construction offer construction of both asphalt driveways and concrete driveways in Toronto and the GTA.
Give us a call for a free onsite consultation today: 416-836-5253
