Is It Cheaper to Asphalt or Concrete a Driveway
Angi's comparison says concrete costs more up front than asphalt, but that costs over time come out about equal because asphalt needs more maintenance. It says asphalt resists cold better and is less likely to crack in freezing temperatures, while concrete is prone to freeze-thaw cracking. It puts asphalt's lifespan at 15 to 30 years and concrete's at 30 to 50.
Up-front cost and cost over time
Angi's asphalt versus concrete guide says concrete driveways cost more up front, and that asphalt's lower cost comes partly from being easier to install. It also says asphalt requires more ongoing maintenance, such as resealing, so the costs over time come out about equal.
Cold climates
According to Angi, asphalt resists cold better: it is less porous and less likely to crack in freezing temperatures. It says concrete sustains damage more quickly in cold climates and that freeze-thaw cycles can crack it. Angi also says asphalt is easier to repair for common problems like cracks and potholes.
Lifespan
Angi puts asphalt driveways at 15 to 30 years and concrete at 30 to 50 years with proper maintenance. For comparison, the Colorado Asphalt Pavement Association says a well-designed asphalt driveway gives trouble-free service for up to 20 years.
What All County installs
All County Paving installs asphalt, tar and chip and millings, and does not do concrete.
Keep reading
Sources
- Angi, Asphalt vs. Concrete Driveway: Pros and Cons
- Colorado Asphalt Pavement Association (via the Asphalt Institute), “Best Practices” for the Use of Asphalt Driveways, Technical Brief
Frequently Asked Questions
Angi says concrete costs more up front, but that long-run costs are about equal because asphalt needs more maintenance.
Angi says asphalt resists cold better and is less likely to crack in freezing temperatures, while freeze-thaw cycles can crack concrete.
No. All County Paving does not do concrete work.