Even stone can wear and tear, so it’s a good idea to know about the driveway you park your car on and what might be the most useful type for you. Is it the sturdiness of concrete, the ease of gravel, or the flexibility of asphalt paving?
Concrete
The biggest selling point of concrete is its durability. Most concrete driveways can survive over two decades without needing to be replaced. However, this is only true because of the amount of time and money it takes to install. On average this is about $4 to $6 per square foot. Keep in mind that nothing lasts forever. When it does eventually begin to break and crack, it is much harder to repair. So, it costs more time and money to install, but you repair it less.
Gravel
Gravel seems like the simplest solution to paving, and that impression is accurate. It is easy and cheap to install, redo, and even remove if you change your mind, about $1 to $3 dollars per square foot. This sort of driveway can last decades with basic upkeep. However, remember the old saying, “You get what you pay for.” The natural look you get with gravel can lead to an unkempt appearance when weeds sprout and the gravel starts to spread. Overall, it’s simple upkeep but consistent, and potentially constant, depending on the installation. Something small to mention is the noise and dust it generates as well.
Asphalt
Asphalt is one of the most used paving substances for a reason. Its flexibility increases its durability but does lend itself to deformation over time. However, this is much easier to spot repair, with an asphalt driveway lasting around 20 years with patches here and there. It is also cheap to install, $1 to $6 dollars per square foot, because of its ease of use and ability to be reused. Much of the asphalt removed from damaged roads and driveways is recycled and used in future mixtures. Asphalt is often used to waterproof, so this is a particularly good product when dealing with areas of freezing precipitation like the northern US.
For more information and help from the professionals, please feel free to contact us at DC Paving and Sealcoating.