While an asphalt driveway may seem more economical initially, you’ll end up sacrificing quality and durability.

If you are planning to replace or add a driveway onto your property, you may be debating between using concrete or asphalt. While there are benefits to each, concrete is clearly superior to asphalt when it comes to paving driveways. What you’ll save in money using asphalt you’ll end up paying for with quality and longevity. At Tolley Concrete, we want you to get the best quality option for your money.

Why Concrete Is Superior to Asphalt

Asphalt is generally cheaper to install than concrete, but like anything else, you get what you pay for. In the long run, concrete is a better investment. Here’s why.

  • Concrete is very durable. When concrete is properly designed, poured, finished, and maintained, it can maintain its quality and form for several decades. Asphalt, even when well maintained, generally won’t last more than 15 to 20 years at the most.
  • Concrete is more weather resistant. Your driveway is going to be exposed to the elements year-round. Sunlight breaks down asphalt, and rain will get into cracks in the surface and degrade the material over time. Concrete is much more resistant to damage from precipitation and ultraviolet radiation, both of which are important factors here in Florida.
  • There are tons of design options for concrete. Asphalt has limited potential for personalization, unlike concrete, which can be tinted, stained, etched, stamped, scored, and more. Concrete can be made to simulate materials such as stone, brick, or wood. Asphalt cannot do that. 
  • Concrete is easier to maintain. Although the initial installation of concrete will cost more than asphalt, you’ll save money over time due to lower maintenance costs. Asphalt needs to be cleaned at least twice a year, resealed every few years, and it can still develop cracks and holes that have to be dealt with immediately to prevent further damage. Concrete is much easier to maintain.

When You Need a New Driveway, Call Tolley

Tolley Concrete has been serving Central Florida for 40 years. We have the skills and experience to help you get just the right look for your driveway. Whatever your home’s style, we can increase its curb appeal with a new driveway.