When it’s time to install or replace your driveway, one of the first decisions you’ll make is the choice of material. Asphalt and concrete are the two most common options, but which is better for your wallet?
Both have pros and cons, but if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option that offers flexibility and easier installation, asphalt might just come out on top. Let’s break it down so you can make the best choice for your home.
Upfront Costs: Asphalt Wins
When it comes to upfront costs, asphalt is hands down the more affordable option. The average price for asphalt driveways ranges between $4 and $6 per square foot. In comparison, concrete can run anywhere from $7 to $12 per square foot, and that’s for standard concrete. If you want decorative finishes, stamped patterns, or colors for your concrete driveway, the cost will increase even more, sometimes reaching $15 to $20 per square foot.
So, if budget is a concern, you’ll save quite a bit by going with asphalt. For example, installing a 500-square-foot driveway could cost you around $2,000 to $3,000 with asphalt, while the same-sized driveway in concrete could cost you between $3,500 and $6,000.
Installation Time: Asphalt Is Quicker
One of the biggest advantages of asphalt is how fast it can be installed. In most cases, an asphalt driveway can be laid and ready for use within two days. This quick installation process is perfect if you want to get the job done and start using your new driveway as soon as possible.
Concrete, on the other hand, takes much longer to install. The drying process (also known as curing) can take anywhere from a few days to a week before the driveway is strong enough to handle the weight of vehicles. In some cases, it may take up to a month to fully cure. This means you’ll be waiting longer to use your new driveway, and if you’re in a hurry, that’s a definite drawback.
Maintenance: Asphalt Is Easier to Repair
No driveway material is perfect, and both asphalt and concrete will require maintenance over time. However, asphalt tends to be easier and cheaper to repair than concrete.
Asphalt surfaces can develop cracks due to weather changes and regular wear and tear, but these driveway cracks can be filled relatively easily with asphalt patching products that are available at most hardware stores. If your asphalt driveway starts to show signs of aging, you can also apply a new layer over the existing surface, which is a quick and affordable fix.
Concrete, while durable, doesn’t offer the same ease of repair. When concrete cracks, it’s harder to fix and can require a professional to properly patch it up. (Even then, the patch might be noticeable.) In some cases, concrete repairs can involve cutting out sections and re-pouring, which can get expensive.
Durability: Concrete Lasts Longer, But…
It’s true that concrete driveways typically last longer than asphalt ones. Concrete can last up to 40 years with proper care, while asphalt usually needs replacing after about 20 to 30 years. However, this doesn’t mean asphalt is a bad option. In fact, for many homeowners, the combination of lower upfront costs and easier maintenance makes asphalt a more appealing choice despite its slightly shorter lifespan.
Although concrete lasts longer, it’s more susceptible to cracking in extreme weather conditions. In colder climates where freezing and thawing cycles are common, concrete driveways can develop cracks over time. Asphalt, on the other hand, is more flexible and can withstand temperature fluctuations better than concrete, making it a better option if you live in an area with harsh winters.
Resurfacing: Asphalt Makes It Simple
One of the major perks of asphalt is the ability to resurface it when it starts showing signs of wear. Instead of ripping out the entire driveway, you can simply add a fresh layer of asphalt over the existing one, extending the life of your driveway at a fraction of the cost of full replacement. The asphalt resurfacing process is much simpler and cheaper than replacing a cracked concrete driveway, which often requires breaking up the old concrete and hauling it away before installing a new slab.
Cost Efficiency Over Time
While the initial price difference between asphalt and concrete is clear, it’s also important to consider how cost-effective each option is over time. Asphalt’s lower upfront cost and cheaper repairs make it a great option if you’re looking for something that’s both affordable in the short term and manageable in the long term.
Concrete may seem appealing due to its durability, but the higher upfront cost and the potential for costly repairs mean that, over the long run, asphalt can still be the better financial decision for many homeowners. The fact that you can resurface asphalt instead of replacing it entirely also makes it a more cost-efficient option.
Maintenance Costs Over Time
Although asphalt requires regular maintenance in the form of resealing every 2-4 years, this maintenance is relatively inexpensive at around $0.15 to $0.25 per square foot. Over time, this is a small price to pay for keeping your driveway in good shape.
Concrete, while needing less frequent maintenance, tends to be more costly to repair when problems arise. So, while concrete may last longer, you could end up spending more on repairs when issues like cracking or spalling (surface flaking) occur.
Conclusion: Asphalt Offers More Value for Your Money
If you’re looking for the most budget-friendly option, asphalt is the clear winner. It’s cheaper to install, quicker to lay down, and easier to repair when problems arise. While concrete may last longer, the upfront cost and more complicated repair process often tip the scales in favour of asphalt.
Choosing asphalt gives you a cost-effective, durable solution that can last for decades with proper care. Its flexibility also makes it a great choice for colder climates where concrete might crack. At the end of the day, you want a driveway that fits your budget without compromising on quality—and asphalt provides just that.If you’re thinking about installing a new driveway, King Asphalt is here to make it happen. Our friendly and experienced team can provide a free estimate and guide you through the process of choosing the best material for your needs. We offer asphalt paving services in Hamilton, Brantford, and the Halton Region.
