Parking lots and surfaces are generally divided into two different types, concrete and asphalt. Most of the time it comes down to cost, but aside from the difference in price, each option offers different pros and cons. Take some of these benefits into consideration when you’re looking to have a surface paved.
Concrete lasts longer and will look as good as it does now as it did when it was first installed. Unlike asphalt, concrete is applied in one layer with the mix design meeting the load capacity, not the number of layers. The process is simpler as well. No heavy equipment is needed to finish the pavement. Asphalt requires rolling and machinery to finish it off, while concrete requires only time to settle properly.
Concrete offers more flexibility and options for design and creativity. Asphalt comes in one color, black. Over time, it will fade a little more to grey, but concrete can come in any color with different additives. Areas paved with asphalt always require more maintenance than concrete. Your overall costs over the lifespan of the pavement will lessen with the absence of repairs and maintenance crews coming out over the years.
Concrete’s lifespan can range anywhere from 20-40 years. Because asphalt must constantly be maintained, the lifespan is ongoing, however, it can costs up to seven times as much money.
These are just a few of the differences and benefits of using concrete. In the end, it all comes down to the purpose of your project. In some cases, asphalt isn’t possible and concrete must be used. Other scenarios come down to project maintenance and budgeting.
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