Choosing Concrete or Asphalt for your Landscaping

Using concrete or asphalt when you build new aspects of your landscaping. These two are the most common materials used. Both have their pros and cons, and your choice will depend largely on your budget, the aesthetics of your neighborhood, and where you live. Read on to find out more about how best to choose one of these when building your new landscaping.

Calculate Your Budget

Concrete driveways typically cost about 45% more to install than asphalt driveways. For this reason, asphalt is a more commonly used material. However, when making your decision, it is important to consider many other factors other than just the cost. If something is cheaper in the beginning, it may cost you more down the road in repairs.

Consider the Climate

Concrete driveways are more resistant to high temperatures, however they have difficulty in cold climates. Care must be taken to ensure that the base of the driveway is filled with compact gravel. If the foundation is not put down properly, concrete driveways will be poorly affected by frost and extremely low temperatures. The salt that is also commonly used on roads to get rid of ice and snow may also cause permanent damage to the concrete, and may even cause cracks in your concrete.

Asphalt driveways are more adapted to colder climates, because the constant exposure to high temperatures tends to make asphalt soft. Have you ever walked on a road in the summertime and had your foot sink into the asphalt? This is due to the asphalt becoming soft. If it becomes too soft, grooves and cracks may result and require repairs.

Sealing Needs

Asphalt driveways have a requirement to be sealed every 4 to 5 years. Over time, oils in asphalts are oxidized and lose their moisture. The color of the asphalt may also lighten, and all of this will typically happen in a few months. The first sealing application must be done around 8 months after installation. If the asphalt is sealed immediately after it is installed, it will remain that way. This will make it less resistant to breaks and ruts. It’s important that a professional understand what to do to keep your asphalt from breaking.

Choose What Will Last

If they are maintained properly, asphalt driveways will last about 30 years. If they are not properly cared for, an asphalt driveway can deteriorate in as little a 5 years. This will lead to costly repairs or replacements. If you choose a concrete driveway, it will likely last 50 years or more and have lower maintenance or repair costs.

In all, it seems that concrete will have the best results in using for a driveway. However, if you like the appearance of asphalt, you may find that you can keep it up, it just takes a little bit more work. Concrete does have a beautiful look and will be something you love for years. Asphalt may not be too difficult to keep up, but you will require a bit more maintenance to keep it looking beautiful for years. If you have questions about this, contact a landscaper in Las Vegas for more information.

To learn more about the benefits of asphalt driveways, click here.