Concrete vs Asphalt Parking Lot

Whether you are considering materials for a brand-new parking lot or you have had enough of the cracks and stains of your current driveway or parking lot, the two most popular options are concrete and asphalt. These two options have a lot in common: they are laid over gravel and both are essentially a mixture of sand and stone. However, they also have differences: asphalt uses tar as an adhesive while concrete uses cement. At the end of the day, they are both phenomenally durable and attractive options. To help you compare and contrast, Artistic Concrete Designs has arranged for this blog to underscore the pros and cons of concrete and asphalt.

Asphalt Performs Well in The Cold; Concrete Performs Well in The Heat

The climate has a major influence on the performance of these two materials. An asphalt is a great option for northern states that witness severe colds but becomes gooey or sticky where temperatures are high. Extreme heat causes asphalt to soften. When things cool down, the asphalt rehardens. This cycle can cause asphalt to crack or sag. The effect will be especially noticeable if heavy vehicles are parked on the asphalt – you will notice the prints of the tires. Call for concrete replacement today in your area.

Concrete performs well in the heat, but cold weather can cause it to crack. Concrete is especially sensitive to salt which is used to melt ice and snow in colder climates; the salt can pit, stain, or blotch concrete. Further, concrete can buckle or crack in the coldest winters.

CONCRETE OFFERS MORE VISUAL APPEAL

Asphalt is known as “blacktop” due to it being dark gray to black with no flexibility in its color. Concrete is pale gray and comes with the option of being stained or tinted to a large selection of colors and designs. Concrete can also be stamped or brushed to add textured finishes, making it more visually appealing. With stamped concrete, you can imitate the look of bricks, stone, or even wood. If you want more variety in visual appeal, then opt for concrete.

CONCRETE GENERALLY LASTS LONGER THAN ASPHALT

A professionally installed concrete parking lot should last between 30 to 40 years if maintained properly and regularly while asphalt is good for about 20 to 30 years. Granted, asphalt is easier to repair and cracks on asphalt generally blend well in the dark asphalt. Damage to concrete is easier to spot, but measures can be taken to limit the visibility of cracks and the concrete’s susceptibility to cracking. Both options can be sealed to provide extra durability and concrete can have concrete expansion joints that allow the material to expand and contract in a controlled way to prevent breakups.

Get Professionally Concrete Installation

When you need concrete installation services in the Atlanta area, put your trust in the professionals at Artistic Concrete Designs. We have a large selection of stamped concrete options and colors. Our professionals have years of experience with concrete sealers and overlays to give your flooring added durability and customized aesthetic appeal. Call our office today at (770) 580-2700 or contact us online and ask about our special promotions. Our friendly staff is on standby for your call.