Has your driveway seen better days? If stains, cracks, and uneven areas have become the norm, it’s likely time to install a new one. Want to go that route? You just have to decide whether you’d like an asphalt vs concrete driveway.
I’ve helped many homeowners make this decision, and it boils down to this: Asphalt is more affordable and easier to install, but requires more maintenance. Concrete has more design options and better durability, but it’s more expensive. In most cases, homeowners will opt for concrete for a more traditional look.
Installing a new driveway is a big project, so it’s best to hire a professional to complete the work. Take a look below to review the top concrete driveway installation pros, and then use this guide to learn all you need to know.
What Are the Key Differences Between Asphalt and Concrete Driveways?
A new driveway installation will last you between 30 and 50 years, so it’s best not to rush into a decision about whether to use asphalt or concrete. Instead, take the time to weigh all the key factors, like your customization and maintenance preferences, budget, and climate, to find what might work best.
To get started, let’s take a look at the main differences between asphalt and concrete.
Asphalt
Asphalt is a black, sticky paving material made from aggregates and a petroleum-based binder. The mixture gets heated to make it pliable and easy to roll out into a flat surface. The asphalt hardens as it cools to create a solid surface that’ll last up to 30 years with proper maintenance.
Concrete
Concrete is a highly versatile construction material made from aggregates, cement, and water. Once it’s mixed, the concrete gets poured into forms, spread out, and finished with tints and stains, stamps, or engravings. When properly installed, concrete driveways can last up to 50 years.
Learn about how long concrete takes to dry in our informative article.
How Do Concrete and Asphalt Driveways Compare on Durability?
When used for driveways, concrete is more durable than asphalt, but that’s only in ideal conditions. Freezing temperatures and high traffic rates can greatly diminish the strength of concrete.
Compressive Strength
Able to withstand 6,000 pounds per square inch (PSI) of pressure, concrete has double the compressive strength of asphalt. To reach full strength, concrete must have the right mix design and go through the proper curing process. The addition of rebar can reinforce concrete even more and is a good idea if you’re going to be parking heavy vehicles on your driveway.
Climate Sensitivity
Asphalt is more durable in colder climates, but it’s sensitive to UV exposure and hot weather. If temperatures climb too high, the surface may soften and even melt, resulting in bumps and ruts. In my experience, homes in hot climates are better off with concrete driveways. If you have a large car collection like mine, the hot asphalt will deform faster if any sit for a while.
Concrete is the opposite and may crack and heave as temperatures drop below freezing. This happens as the moisture expands and contracts with the temperature changes. Additives, drainage, and insulation can help prevent cracks, but it’s no guarantee. So, if your home is in a cold area, asphalt may be best.
Traffic Volume
Concrete can hold more weight than asphalt, but it’s not as good at withstanding a high traffic volume. If you’re always coming and going or have a lot of visitors, asphalt is the clear winner here. Be sure to have it poured at a 3” thickness for maximum durability. Also, keep in mind that more traffic means more upkeep over the life of your driveway.
Concrete vs Asphalt Durability
| Characteristic | Asphalt | Concrete |
| Durability | Moderate | High |
| Pressure Resistance | 3,000 PSI | 6,000 PSI |
| Crack Probability | Low | Moderate |
| Traffic Load | High | Low |
| Climate Suitability | Susceptible to UV damage | Prone to cracking in cold weather |
| Lifespan | 30 years | 50 years |
What Is the Difference Between Asphalt and Concrete Driveways for Maintenance and Repair?
Asphalt requires nearly twice as much maintenance as concrete, but it’s typically easier to fix when problems arise. Oversized vehicles, high traffic rates, and the climate all influence how often you will need to complete driveway maintenance and repair.
Maintenance
If you get a new asphalt driveway, you’ll need to apply a sealcoating within a year of having it installed. Then, repeat the application every three to five years to shield the surface from UV rays and extend the life of your driveway.
Sealants can preserve the finish of your concrete driveway, too, but they’re not required. If you do want to apply a sealant, plan to repeat the process every five to 10 years. You’ll need to clean the surface with a degreaser before applying the coating to ensure it sticks fast.
Keep the cheapest kitty litter on hand in case your vehicle springs a leak. Pour the litter over the fresh oil stain, walk over it a few times to break it up, and let it sit for about 10 minutes. Then, sweep it all up to remove the bulk of the oil before it can soak into your driveway.
Repairs
Damage to asphalt and concrete will spread over time and affect the structural integrity of your driveway. Plan to complete necessary repairs right when you notice a problem.
Asphalt driveways are the easiest to repair because you just have to apply sealant or resurface with new asphalt. Most concrete repairs involve epoxy injections or overlays, but it can be difficult to perfectly color match the patch material to the driveway.
The extent of the damage will determine how to approach the repair process. If your driveway has cracks running through the entire surface or big potholes here and there, you will either need to have it resurfaced or replaced.
To sum things up, an asphalt driveway only needs minor repairs in the short term but will require more maintenance and repair work as it ages. A concrete driveway will need relatively little work right after it’s installed but could require extensive repairs in the long term.
Don’t be like me and let your vehicles sit in one spot too long on your asphalt driveway, especially during the summer months. Otherwise, the softened asphalt will deform under the weight of the wheels and create a sunken area. If you have a project car, consider parking it in the garage, on the gravel next to your driveway, or at a storage lot.
Maintenance and Repair Frequency for Asphalt and Concrete Driveways
| Maintenance and Repairs | Asphalt | Concrete |
| Sealant | 3 to 5 years | 5 to 10 years |
| Crack sealing | Low | Moderate |
| Patching | Moderate | Low |
| Pothole repairs | Moderate | Low |
| Resurfacing | Moderate | Low |
Cost Comparison of Asphalt vs Concrete Driveways
Installing a concrete driveway costs twice as much as asphalt. If you want to customize the concrete surface with stamps, engravings, or stains, the price goes up from there. Although concrete costs more upfront, its lower maintenance needs and longer lifespan balances things out.
Installation
At $6 to $9 per square foot to install, asphalt is a truly budget-friendly driveway material. Materials alone will cost you $2 to $4 per square foot, but it’s not a great DIY project. Labor adds $4 to $5 per square foot depending on who you hire to complete the job. Color additives increase the per-square-foot price by at least $3.
A basic concrete driveway will run you $8 to $15 per square foot. Materials are $3 to $7, and labor adds $5 to $8 for each square foot installed. If you want stain or tint applied, expect to pay another $2 to $5 for every square foot. Stamping and engraving can add up to $16 per square foot, depending on the size and intricacy of the design.
When using asphalt, an average 600-square-foot driveway costs between $3,600 and $5,400. Coloring the surface may increase the price to over $7,200. If you go with basic concrete, expect average costs to land in the $4,800 to $9,000 range. With extensive customization, the total may exceed $18,000.
Lifespan
When properly installed with quality materials, an asphalt driveway can last 15 to 30 years, while concrete has a lifespan of 30 to 50 years. Exposure to the elements, high traffic rates, and a lack of maintenance can all decrease the lifespan.
If you take good care of your driveway, it’ll have the best chance of withstanding heavy usage and adverse weather conditions. Sealants, in particular, go a long way in extending the life of your driveway.
Overall, you’ll want to choose asphalt pavement for a cost-effective initial installation but be prepared to complete more maintenance throughout its life. For fewer maintenance requirements, concrete will serve you well as long as you’re ready to pay more upfront.
Cost Comparison of Asphalt vs Concrete
| Asphalt | Concrete | |
| Cost Per Square Foot | $6 – $9 | $8 – $15 |
| Extra Customization Costs | Up to $3 per square foot | Up to $16 per square foot |
| Cost of Average Driveway | $3,600 – $5,400 | $4,800 – $9,000 |
| Average Lifespan | 15 to 30 years | 30 to 50 years |
| Needs to be Resurfaced | Every 5 to 10 years | Every 10 to 15 years |
How Do Asphalt and Concrete Driveways Compare on Appearance and Customization?
Asphalt and concrete look markedly different from each other. Customization options add to their distinct appearance. So, if you have a particular look in mind, this factor may weigh more heavily than the others.
Appearance
A basic asphalt driveway has a jet-black surface that’s ultra-smooth and sleek when well-maintained. Even with regular resealing, this material develops a light gray patina over the years.
Without customization, concrete driveways have a light gray surface that’s smooth or bumpy to the touch. The overall texture depends on the type of concrete used. The smaller the aggregate, the smoother your driveway will be. When properly maintained, concrete does not show signs of weathering, but it does get easily stained.
Customization
Concrete has tons of customization options that dramatically change its look and feel. You can get the driveway surface stamped, add an engraving, and change its color. The installers can make your concrete look like natural stone, display your family crest, or flaunt your favorite hue.
Asphalt paving doesn’t have nearly as many customization options, but it’s possible to skip the black tones in favor of a colorful surface. This is typically achieved by creating an asphalt mix with a clear binder and then pouring in a color additive. You will need to use a special sealer to maintain the bright hue instead of a basic blacktop sealant.
Concrete lets your creativity shine. You can have it customized to suit any building style or your winning personality. Asphalt is the perfect complement to your landscape, allowing all the other elements to remain in focus. There’s no one right choice, so reflect on your preferences to find the best option for you.
Concrete and Asphalt Appearance Overview
| Appearance | Asphalt | Concrete |
| Basic Aesthetics | Sleek, modern, and minimalistic | Timeless, versatile, and decorative |
| Surface Color and Texture | Black with a smooth surface | Varies depending on finish |
| Customization Options | Bold color additives | Tinting, staining, stamping, and engraving |
| Weathering Effects | Gray patina | None with proper care |
DIY vs Professional Installation of Asphalt vs Concrete Driveway
No matter which material you choose, one thing is true: pouring an asphalt or concrete driveway is not for the faint of heart. You need special equipment, a huge crew, and a whole lot of time and effort to complete this project.
Worse yet, if you don’t get it right the first time around, you’ll have to tear it all out and try again with new materials. For those reasons, I strongly recommend that you set your DIY mindset aside and bring in the professionals to get the job done.
A concrete expert can complete your driveway installation whether you’re going with asphalt or concrete materials. Take the time to get a quote, review portfolios, and check references from three contractors before hiring one. Here’s a look at the top concrete experts in your area to help you get started.
So, Is an Asphalt or Concrete Driveway Right for You?
As you weigh all the factors, your ideal driveway will come into focus. Your aesthetics and maintenance preferences, budget, and climate all play a role in determining the material that will work best for your home.
For most people, a concrete driveway will be the right choice. It’s durable, strong, and doesn’t require a lot of maintenance. In most cases, that’s what I recommend. But if your driveway gets an unusual amount of traffic or if you live in a particularly cold area, you should give asphalt a try.
FAQs About Asphalt and Concrete Driveways
Is asphalt or concrete better for our environment?
Concrete and asphalt have an equally negative impact on the environment. Sourcing their raw materials takes an enormous amount of energy. Asphalt production often results in crude oil and petroleum leaks that damage the ecosystem. Concrete releases volatile organic compounds into the air while curing.
How long does it take to install an asphalt or a concrete driveway?
The asphalt and concrete driveway installation process takes one to two days to complete. Asphalt hardens enough to drive on in about five days and fully cures in three weeks. Concrete hardens enough to support vehicle weights in one week and cures in 28 days.
How do I maintain and clean my asphalt or concrete driveway?
Clean your asphalt or concrete driveway using a pressure washer on a low setting. Apply degreaser to oil stains and other spots if water alone doesn’t do the trick. Maintain your driveway by sealing the surface on a set schedule.
