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Asphalt versus Concrete Driveways
Asphalt and concrete are the most popular types of material
for paving driveways. Asphalt driveways and concrete driveways both have their
unique advantages. If you live in a cold climate and are considering a concrete
driveway you need to make sure the base for the driveway is heavily laid with
gravel and it is compacted first. Otherwise the driveway will run the risk of
cracking due to frost heaves. In addition, concrete is susceptible to salt
damage, a material frequently used on roads in cold weather parts of the
country. On the other hand, if you live in a warm or hot climate 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.
Asphalt paved driveways are typically cheaper to install than concrete paved
driveways. However, asphalt paved driveways need significant more care over time
to protect them. Asphalt paved driveways need to be sealed at least once every
3-5 years. Each sealing, though easily completed by a do it yourself homeowner,
costs money and time. In addition, the sealer needs typically 2-3 days to dry
before you can park a vehicle on it. Also, a newly asphalt paved driveway should
not be sealed 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
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.
Check with your prospective paving contractors first to see what color options
there are for your driveway project.
Asphalt driveways, if maintained can typically last 25-30 years. Concrete
driveways can last even longer. However, both require a solid foundation to be
laid on. 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.
Consideration for the slope of the driveway should also be considered when
contemplating concrete driveways. Over time, concrete driveways can shear off of
the foundation they are poured on which can lead to unwanted cracks.
If you are planning a new asphalt driveway and need
help on how to hire an Asphalt Driveway Paving Contractor, see
HomeAdditionPlus.com's Asphalt Driveway Paving Bid sheet. The Asphalt Driveway
Paving Bid Sheet will help ensure that your hire the right contractor so that
your driveway is paved correctly and you get the finished driveway you are
looking for. In addition, it will help to ensure that the installation of your
driveway will be accomplished on time and on budget!
Over the past 20+ years Mark Donovan has been involved with building homes and
additions to homes. His projects have included: building a vacation home,
building additions and garages on to existing homes, and finishing unfinished
homes. For more home improvement information visit
http://www.homeadditionplus.com
and
http://www.homeaddition.blogspot.com
If you are looking for a professional Connecticut asphalt paving company, please call us today at 203-579-2407 or complete our online submission form.
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