Asphalt vs. Concrete: What’s the Difference?

Asphalt vs. Concrete: What’s the Difference?

Whether you’re preparing to install parking lots, sidewalks, or roads, you’ll find yourself torn between the two most common materials, asking yourself the age-old question: Asphalt or concrete? While they both make for an attractive display, their different components provide each material with their own pros and cons. Instead of simply going with the cheaper option, it’s important to understand the qualities of each material in order to choose which will best fit your wants and needs. 

Installation 

The first difference between asphalt and concrete involves the first step in the process: installation. Installation is an important factor to consider based on how quickly you need the material to cure and when customers and tenants will need to drive or park on it. Asphalt can normally be driven on almost immediately, but it does take about 24 hours to dry completely. Meanwhile, concrete, depending on the mix formula, will take approximately three to 14 days to cure, which means you will have to wait at least a week before allowing cars to park on a concrete parking lot, which is an important factor to consider for your properties!

Durability

When considering materials to utilize, you want something that will last. In general, if maintained regularly, a concrete surface should last 20 to 30 years. Meanwhile, an asphalt surface will last about 15 to 20 years. However, failure to install without a stable substrate or carelessness regarding regular maintenance can cause both of these materials to degrade. The best practice for asphalt is to reseal the surface every one and a half to two years.

Climate

While climate affects both of these materials, they do have differences that could tip the scales in either direction when choosing. Concrete is more durable due to its rigidity and its dense makeup; it reflects light and absorbs less heat than asphalt. When it comes to cold weather, both concrete and asphalt are susceptible to cracking from repeated freezing and thawing. Snow-melting chemicals can have a harsh effect on each material, but asphalt will hold up better against salt. 

Maintenance

The material you choose can also depend on how much time you want to put into maintaining it. You will need to seal asphalt every two to three years. Concrete should also be sealed once it has completely cured (at least 30 days) and then re-sealed every two to five years to keep it in top condition.

There is no definitive winner between concrete and asphalt — both come with their own pros and cons. Your final choice will depend solely on your property’s needs, budget, and climate. You don’t have to tackle this decision alone! Contact E. Meier to learn more and to get a quote on your next commercial, industrial, retail, or multi-unit residential paving and surfacing project.