Asphalt vs. Concrete, Which is Best for You?
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Poway CA driveway contractor tells the pros and cons of asphalt vs. concrete. Which is best for you? Find out in this free article.
Asphalt and concrete are the most popular types of material for paving driveways. Asphalt driveways and concrete driveways both have their unique advantages. How to determine which is best for you? Finding a local driveway contractor with great info on his web site is an excellent start!
Climate Concerns
If you live in a cold climate such as Julian or Ramona and are considering a concrete driveway then make sure the base for the driveway is a solid compact gravel. Otherwise the driveway will run the risk of cracking due to frost and snow.
On the other hand, if you live in a warm or hot climate such as inland San Diego county and are considering asphalt paving, then you need to consider the fact that asphalt can become soft in the hot sun and is therefore susceptible to ruts.
Cost and Maintenance
Asphalt driveways are typically cheaper to install than concrete driveways. However, asphalt driveways need significantly more care over time to protect them from the elements.
Asphalt driveways require sealant at least once every 3-5 years. Each sealing costs money and time. A DIY homeowner can seal their own driveway. However it is a very messy and labor intensive job. So most people simply pay a driveway contractor service to do the job for them. In addition, the sealer needs typically 2-3 days to dry before you can park a vehicle on it. Also, a new asphalt driveway should not receive a sealant coating for at least 6-9 months, as the light oils associated with the asphalt need to evaporate first. If an asphalt driveway is sealed too soon it will remain soft forever.
Asphalt driveways, if maintained can typically last 25-30 years. Concrete driveways can last even longer. However, both require a solid foundation. If not laid on a solid foundation both will crack over time, especially in colder weather climates. Asphalt cracks are easier to repair than concrete driveway cracks.
Color
Asphalt driveways do not need to be always black and concrete driveways do not always need to be off-white. Both asphalt and concrete driveways can be tinted to various colors. However there are far more color options for concrete than for asphalt. Check with our driveway paving contractors first to see what color options there are for your driveway project.
Slope and Angle
Consideration for the slope of the driveway should also be a consideration when contemplating concrete driveways. There is a certain limit to the angle one should not pour concrete. And this angle partially depends on the thickness and compactness of the base. Because concrete is very dense and heavy. So over time, concrete driveways can shear off of their foundation which can lead to unwanted cracks and other more serious damage.
San Diego Driveway Contractor Quote
If you are planning a new asphalt or concrete driveway then call us today for a free quote. In addition, we will ensure that the installation of your driveway is complete on time and on budget!
Contact Information:
Company: HK Construction Company, Inc.
Phone: 858-748-6580
Owner: Marc Gieselmann, Owner
Email: hkc@cox.net
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Service area: Poway CA., and all of San Diego CA and surrounding cites and counties. See complete service areas list.