How to Choose Between Asphalt and Concrete in Phoenix, AZ for Your Driveway
Are you in the market for a brand-new driveway? You’re probably trying to decide whether you’ll go with asphalt or concrete in Phoenix, AZ as your material of choice. There are some similarities between the two, but also some key differences to consider.
Here are some of the factors you should evaluate in making that decision.
Cost
While cost shouldn’t be the sole determining factor you use to make your decision, it’s certainly something you’re going to want to consider. If we’re just looking at installation costs, asphalt is going to be much cheaper to install. Generally, the cost per square foot for asphalt falls between $2.50 and $4, whereas concrete typically will cost $4 to $6 per square foot for installation.
Maintenance
While we already discussed costs of installation, the cost and effort put into maintenance can also be a big factor in your decision-making process, and there are some big differences to consider between asphalt and concrete.
Asphalt driveways need to be sealed about six months to a year after the date of installation. They should then be resealed every three to five years afterwards as needed. You do not need a professional to come in and seal the asphalt, and do not need to use any special tools or machinery, but it is an extremely important process that can extend the life of your driveway for decades, and you’ll need to invest the time and effort into it.
Concrete driveways do not need to be sealed (though they can be), and they can last more than 50 years. Sealing the concrete does help preserve its appearance and finish, and can prevent staining, which occurs more easily in concrete than asphalt. If you do develop stains in the concrete, you’ll need to use a degreaser to get them out.
Cracks in both asphalt and concrete can be repaired, but asphalt cracks are easier to repair and will better blend into the original asphalt. Concrete repairs are a bit more obvious to the naked eye.
Appearance
What you find aesthetically pleasing really comes down to your personal preferences, but there are some differences in this category between concrete and asphalt that you should be aware of. Concrete is generally easier to work with if you are looking at different finishes—it can be tinted or stained, and you can stain different areas in different colors to form unique patterns. Concrete can also be stamped, etched or engraved to give you different looks.
The options you have with asphalt are more limited, because it must be rolled and compressed. There are some tints available in sealants and colors that can be added during mixing, but if you’re looking for more personalized design and finish options, concrete is going to be a better bet.
These are just a few of the factors to consider when choosing between asphalt and concrete in Phoenix, AZ for your driveway. Contact Sunstar Seal Coating, Inc. if you have any questions about our services, and we’ll be happy to provide more tips.
Categorised in: Concrete
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