Concrete is comprised of aggregates such as gravel, rock, or sand along with water and Portland cement while asphalt is a tar-like form of petroleum. Both have long reigned as some of the most popular paving materials — whether for residential driveways or commercial parking lots, neighborhood streets or busy highways, or any or any other paved surface. Learn about the pros and cons of each to determine what’s best for your residential or commercial project.

A Guide to Asphalt & Concrete

Asphalt

• Installation & Curing: Unlike concrete, it is possible to immediately drive or walk on asphalt. The product gets steamrolled and compacted quickly and efficiently to create a supportive, smooth surface.

• Cost & Longevity: While asphalt costs more than gravel, it is about half the price of concrete. The driveway and road material lasts 15 to 20 years with the right care.

• Maintenance: Asphalt requires sealcoating every five years or less, depending on traffic and weather conditions in addition to annual power washing. Asphalt also shrinks and expands in response to the weather; however, any holes and cracks are easy to seal. It disguises oil and gas spills well but breaks down quickly when it is exposed to such chemicals.

Concrete

• Installation & Curing: Like asphalt, concrete takes little time for a professional crew to install. And, while it is possible to drive on asphalt immediately after steamrolling, you must wait at least seven days to drive or walk on concrete. It can take months for the material to fully cure.

• Cost & Longevity: Concrete lasts up to 30 years with the right care; however, it is the most expensive paving material. Any decorative elements you want to include will also add to the final price. Repairs are more extensive and difficult, and therefore cost more than asphalt maintenance. Concrete also cracks under extreme pressure if it was installed incorrectly.

• Maintenance: Oil and gas spills are noticeable without immediate cleanup, and annual sealing is necessary to protect the surface from the elements.

Decca Paving has provided home and business owners throughout Rochester, Syracuse, Elmira, and Batavia, NY, with impeccable asphalt driveways and roads as well as related maintenance services since 2001. A family-owned and -operated company, this fully licensed and insured team only uses state-of-the-art trucks, mixers, and steamrollers to produce efficient and long-lasting results. Call (585) 279-0948 today for a free estimate or learn more about services online.