Asphalt or Concrete?

[mizzou]

I need a new driveway, I'm leaning towards concrete because it seems to be much more long lasting and requires less maintenace. Every asphalt driveway I've owned or encountered needs sealing periodically (which isn't a big deal) but once it starts to chip/crack away it's like there is a tsunami approaching and there is nothing you can do to keep it looking good except a resurface.

I do like the look of a brand new asphalt driveway however...

 

[highland145]

Asphalt=hot.

 

[Belegost]

Concrete by far. Asphalt looks good at first, but doesn't age well. A nice concrete drive will last a long time. And you can consider getting it colored/stamped if the plain grey doesn't appeal.

 

[Jimzz]

Concrete if you are going to install it correctly. Less maintaince and better resell IMO.

 

[edro]

I personally like asphalt better.

Looks better, is brand new every time you seal it, is cheap to have professionally sealed ($250), doesn't crack as bad as concrete when it settles, much cheaper than concrete.

If you already have asphalt, it's going to be a huge increase to go to concrete instead of redoing the asphalt.
They will need to remove all of the asphalt I would think. I don't know though.

Get quotes from a few of each type of company. Talk to them about the benefits and negatives of each.
You learn a lot by talking to people that do it every day.

 

[DrPizza]

Check the prices of stamped concrete vs. plain concrete. With stamped, you can get a really nice look. I'm not sure how much that adds to the price, or if you're tolerant of that kind of price.

 

[TheGardener]

If you go concrete, don't cheap out on the contractor. Otherwise, you are more likely to develop cracks and watch it disintegrate.

 

[3chordcharlie]

Asphalt if you have winter, concrete if you don't.

Asphalt does a much better job clearing ice with a little salt or sunshine.

Concrete does not like salt, and does not absorb as much heat to get ice melting.

 

[Blain]

If you go concrete, don't cheap out on the contractor. Otherwise, you are more likely to develop cracks and watch it disintegrate.

Cracks in outdoor concrete are most likely going to happen, no matter what. A good contractor can minimize and direct the cracking for a better looking job.
Slow cured concrete is better than a job done fast.

 

[bigi]

I am a big fan of brick/stone paving mostly for aesthetic purposes.

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