Concrete Versus Asphalt: Place Your Bets!
Thinking about installing a parking lot, driveway, or road but can’t decide between concrete and asphalt? Concrete was once a preferred method for paving; today, asphalt paving is the preferred choice. Let’s compare the two!
New Constructions
One can create a concrete mixture using crushed rock, cement, and water. The cement binds concrete and aggregates together once mixed and dried. If done correctly, concrete becomes a stiff, solid substance. If not, concrete becomes prone to cracking and breaking.
On the other hand, asphalt also uses aggregate or crushed rocks. However, instead of cement as a binder, asphalt utilizes bitumen – a dark, sticky substance derived from crude oil. A paving contractor pours hot asphalt onto a layer of heavy aggregate and presses it with a steamroller. Asphalt, after being cooled, becomes strong enough to withstand automobile traffic. There’s no question about how tough and durable asphalt is, but some don’t know that it offers flexibility to accommodate imperfections; concrete doesn’t have this feature.
Repairs and Replacements
Asphalt can be repaired faster, making it open for traffic much faster. Additionally, asphalt pavement maintenance and repair is quicker, easier, and less expensive than cement pavement. Fixing minor cracks on asphalt pavements can be so easy that a person can accomplish it alone. The benefit of making simple, inexpensive asphalt repairs significantly increases the longevity of asphalt surfaces.
Maintenance
With harsh weather conditions and moisture seeping inside concrete surfaces, it’s no wonder most turn to asphalt. By seal coating, owners can protect surfaces with ease. Of course, you can coat concrete as well, but it isn’t as effective when doing it for asphalt. Also, unlike concrete, which must be removed and replaced when significant cracks appear, you can resurface asphalt in much less time and at a fraction of the cost.
For new construction, repairs or replacements, and maintenance, asphalt is a more cost-effective option than concrete. And, for quality and affordable asphalt paving in Prescott, AZ, Seal West Paving and Sealcoating is the expert you should turn to. For appointments, dial (928) 800-1987 now!