Asphalt vs Concrete Driveway Cost Calculator
Here is a detailed table that outlines the key differences between asphalt and concrete driveways, including factors like cost, durability, maintenance, installation time, and more. This table will help you understand all you need to know about asphalt vs. concrete driveways.
Asphalt vs. Concrete Driveway Comparison Table
| Feature | Asphalt Driveway | Concrete Driveway | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost (Installation) | $3 – $7 per square foot | $6 – $10 per square foot | Asphalt is generally cheaper to install than concrete, but concrete offers greater longevity. |
| Average Lifespan | 15 – 20 years (with proper maintenance) | 30 – 40 years (with proper maintenance) | Concrete lasts longer than asphalt, but both require upkeep to reach maximum lifespan. |
| Maintenance | Moderate (resealing every 3-5 years) | Low (resealing every 5-10 years) | Asphalt requires more frequent resealing to maintain durability and appearance. |
| Durability | Susceptible to softening in extreme heat | More durable in hot climates | Asphalt can soften in extreme heat, while concrete can withstand heat better but is prone to cracking in cold climates. |
| Crack Repair | Easier to repair, low-cost | More difficult to repair, higher cost | Asphalt cracks are easier and cheaper to fill than concrete cracks. |
| Color Options | Black (standard) | Multiple color options and finishes | Asphalt generally comes in black, whereas concrete offers more customization, including stamping and staining. |
| Weather Resistance | Susceptible to cold weather and freeze-thaw cycles | Resistant to cold but can crack in freezing temperatures | Asphalt can crack in extreme cold due to expansion and contraction, while concrete can develop surface cracks. |
| Installation Time | 1 – 2 days | 2 – 3 days | Asphalt is quicker to install, and it sets within 1-2 days, while concrete takes longer to cure (around 7 days for full strength). |
| Curing Time | Ready for use in 2-3 days | Ready for use in 7 days | Asphalt can be driven on within a few days, while concrete takes up to a week to cure. |
| Aesthetic Options | Limited (black, simple design) | Multiple (color, texture, stamped designs) | Concrete can be stamped, stained, or textured for a decorative look, making it more versatile in terms of aesthetics. |
| Resale Value | Moderate increase | High increase | A concrete driveway can improve property value more than asphalt due to its durability and aesthetics. |
| Environmental Impact | Petroleum-based material, not eco-friendly | More eco-friendly, recyclable materials | Asphalt is petroleum-based, which has a larger environmental impact, whereas concrete is recyclable and can be more eco-friendly. |
| Cold Weather Performance | Poor (prone to cracking from freeze-thaw cycles) | Better in freeze-thaw conditions | Asphalt is more prone to cracking in colder climates, whereas concrete can resist cold better if installed with proper care. |
| Heat Absorption | Absorbs heat, becomes hot in summer | Reflects heat, cooler in summer | Asphalt can become very hot under the sun, making it uncomfortable for walking, whereas concrete reflects heat more effectively. |
| Surface Texture | Smoother surface, softer underfoot | Harder surface, more rigid underfoot | Asphalt provides a smoother surface but can be more prone to softening in the heat, while concrete is firmer and more rigid. |
| Recycling | Can be recycled (reclaimed asphalt pavement – RAP) | Can be crushed and reused as aggregate | Both materials can be recycled, but concrete is considered more environmentally friendly due to less reliance on petroleum products. |
Key Insights:
- Cost:
- Asphalt is cheaper to install initially, ranging from $3 to $7 per square foot. Concrete, however, typically costs $6 to $10 per square foot.
- Although asphalt is cheaper upfront, concrete may offer better value over the long term due to its longer lifespan and lower maintenance needs.
- Durability and Lifespan:
- Asphalt: Lasts around 15-20 years, but with frequent maintenance such as resealing. It can degrade faster in hot climates, softening under extreme heat.
- Concrete: Lasts 30-40 years with minimal maintenance. It’s more resistant to heat but can crack in cold weather if not installed properly.
- Maintenance:
- Asphalt requires more frequent maintenance, particularly resealing every 3-5 years to protect it from cracking and wear.
- Concrete is relatively low-maintenance but may require occasional sealing every 5-10 years and repairs for cracks, which are more expensive and difficult to fix than asphalt.
- Appearance and Aesthetics:
- Asphalt driveways are typically black with limited customization.
- Concrete offers much more versatility, including options for coloring, stamping, and texturing. If aesthetics and curb appeal are important to you, concrete may be the better choice.
- Weather Resistance:
- In areas with extreme cold, asphalt is prone to cracking due to freeze-thaw cycles, while concrete handles cold slightly better but can also crack.
- In hot climates, asphalt softens and becomes sticky, whereas concrete stays cool and reflects heat more effectively.
- Installation and Curing Time:
- Asphalt driveways can be installed faster, with a shorter curing time (2-3 days). Concrete takes longer to install and cure (7 days), meaning it’s ready for use later.
- Environmental Impact:
- Asphalt is petroleum-based, so it’s less eco-friendly compared to concrete, which can be recycled and has less environmental impact.
- Long-Term Value:
- Concrete generally adds more to property value than asphalt due to its durability and the potential for customization and aesthetic appeal.
Estimated Costs:
- Asphalt Driveway:
- $3 – $7 per square foot.
- Example: For a 500-square-foot driveway, the cost could be between $1,500 and $3,500.
- Concrete Driveway:
- $6 – $10 per square foot.
- Example: For a 500-square-foot driveway, the cost could be between $3,000 and $5,000.
Conclusion:
- Choose Asphalt: If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option and don’t mind more frequent maintenance, especially if you live in a moderate climate.
- Choose Concrete: If you prefer a more durable, low-maintenance driveway with aesthetic options and higher long-term value, especially if you live in a hot or cold climate.
This table provides a full understanding of the key differences between asphalt and concrete driveways, helping you choose the best material for your needs based on cost, durability, maintenance, and aesthetics.