Which Is Cheaper Asphalt Or Concrete
When determining which material to use for your construction project, cost is often the deciding factor. Although both asphalt and concrete possess distinct characteristics that make them advantageous in certain situations, asphalt tends to be more cost-effective than concrete.
So which is cheaper asphalt or concrete? If you’re interested to know more we invite you to continue reading as we will explore the cost differences between these two materials to help you make an informed decision for your construction project.
Cost Of Asphalt Vs. Concrete: A Comparative Analysis
When it comes to building projects such as roads, pavements, and parking lots, asphalt is usually the more cost-efficient option. Estimates place the price of installing asphalt pavement on a residential driveway at $3 to $5 per square foot; however, concrete installation will usually be pricier, ranging from $4 to $7 per square foot.
Cost-effectiveness is one of the primary reasons asphalt is preferred to concrete. Asphalt’s production requires a mix of sand, stone, and liquid asphalt cement—all byproducts from oil refining—while, in contrast, producing concrete includes using elements such as cement, water, and aggregates like sand or crushed stones that require more energy than what is needed to produce asphalt.
Not only is asphalt more affordable, but it is also eco-friendly! Asphalt roads are often milled and reused several times because of their recyclable properties. On the other hand, concrete pathways tend to have larger carbon footprints, making them difficult to recycle and reuse again.
Maintenance Cost
In addition to the initial installation cost, maintenance is another key point to consider when making a decision between asphalt and concrete. As compared with concrete, maintaining asphalt does require more work; however, it is not arduous either! Easily mendable cracks or potholes that arise on the surface can be quickly repaired with minimal effort. Still, ongoing upkeep is essential in order for your pavement to remain looking as good as new.
To adequately maintain asphalt pavement, crack filling, sealing the surface, and patching damaged areas must be done consistently. Not only is it important to perform these activities regularly for a prolonged life span of the pavement, but also seal coating every few years will help protect against water damage and further extend its longevity.
In contrast, concrete requires less upkeep than asphalt. Concrete pavement is robust and can withstand substantial traffic loadings, which minimizes the requirement for repairs. Nevertheless, if something happens to it, fixing or replacing a concrete roadway can be quite costly and time-consuming when compared to asphalt repair work.
Longevity And Durability
When assessing the cost of asphalt versus concrete, durability and longevity are major aspects to consider. Asphalt pavement has a shorter lifespan compared to that of concrete; however, its installation and maintenance costs are substantially lower.
Asphalt has an expected lifespan of approximately 20 years, depending on the climate and the maintenance it receives. Concrete paving is more expensive, yet it boasts a life expectancy of about 30 years with less upkeep needed compared to that of asphalt.
Climate And Environmental Factors
When determining the cost of asphalt versus concrete, one take into account local climate and environmental factors For instance, if your construction project is located in an area with high rain levels, using asphalt might not be a prudent decision as it can be easily damaged by moisture.
Conversely, if your construction project is situated in a hot climate zone, concrete may crack and become costlier to repair than asphalt. Additionally, since cement must be manufactured for the application of concrete, it has a greater impact on carbon emissions compared to asphalt.
How Can A Professional Help You Choose Between Asphalt And Concrete?
As you decide between asphalt and concrete for your construction project, consider consulting a seasoned expert who can evaluate the existing circumstances and advocate one material over another based on factors such as cost-efficiency, longevity, maintenance requirements, and regional climate.
An experienced contractor will carefully assess your budget, location, and other relevant details to identify the most suitable material for your project. Furthermore, they can provide an accurate estimate of costs associated with asphalt or concrete installation, maintenance, or repair services and suggest specialized products/treatments that can enhance the durability and longevity of your pavement.
You can turn to New Jersey’s trusted paving company, Productive Asphalt LLC as your go-to source for asphalt and concrete paving. Their team of experienced professionals can provide detailed recommendations to help you choose the best material for your construction project. And they specialize in both asphalt and concrete paving solutions, including installation, repair, maintenance, and more.
Contact them today to learn more about their services or get a free estimate.
Conclusion
Overall, when deciding between asphalt or concrete for your building job, there are many elements to consider such as cost, durability, upkeep, and the environment. To uncover the top recommendation based on your particular needs and get an accurate quote, it is ideal to consult with a professional contractor.