Whenever you have cracks, stains, holes on your driveway and you think maintenance and repair will never solve the problem anymore, you think of replacing the old to a new one. And when you get to decide, choosing between the asphalt and concrete could one of the major decision-making you need to overcome.

Both are laid on a mixture of stones and sand although these two use different adhesive: cement for concrete and tar for asphalt. In addition, both of these materials have pros and cons to them. So here in this article, we will share with you some tips to help you see a bird’s eye view of these materials and decide for yourself after weighing down the pros and cons.

1. Concrete offers more visual options

The asphalt can just provide two color options: black and gray. The concrete, on the other hand, is able to provide you different visual options from stains, patterns, and molds. If you want to have some personalized choice, opt for concrete and contact concrete contractors Vancouver. Otherwise, choose asphalt. If you want to

2. Concrete is easily stained while the asphalt needs sealing every few years

When it comes to maintenance, both can be a little bit demanding. On the one hand, your asphalt is able to withstand different stains like rust, gas drip, oil, etc. because of its matte finish layer that is able to hide the stains away. However, your asphalt needs to be resealed every after three to four years to make sure it is still durable and usable. On the other hand, your concrete may be able to withstand force and pressure and it is considered to be very durable but it is very susceptible to stains.

3. Concrete performs poorly in an extremely cold environment while asphalt can be damaged in extreme heat

Your concrete can buckle when it is exposed to a cold environment and the salt that is used to melt the ice can also stain your concrete, leaving marks on it. The asphalt can work inn cold temperature although it melts and becomes sticky and gooey under extreme heat. When the environment cools down, the asphalt hardens again making it sag or crack.

So, when choosing what to install, take into consideration the environment where you are exposed. If you are living in a cold environment, choose asphalt. However, when you are living in an area where there is a constant sun, choose concrete.

4. Concrete is harder to repair but it takes it longer to get damaged

Asphalt tends to damage and deteriorate faster because it is softer compared to concrete. However, it is easier to fix. The concrete, however, is very durable and it ill requires you a few times for repair and replacement although it can be difficult to repair and replace it.

When choosing, consider two things: durability and the frequency of the repair procedure. Concrete, in this aspect, has more advantages compared to asphalt.

Asphalt is faster to cure but concrete lasts longer. Consider the things before you get to finally choose fir a driveway material.