We'll help you make a concrete decision on concrete vs. asphalt
Both concrete and blacktop driveways work in cold climates, but concrete's rigid structure makes it more prone to cracking from freeze-thaw cycles than flexible asphalt.
Concrete repair costs range from $829 to $2,788, which can be nearly double the $1,500 you'll spend on asphalt repairs for similar damage.
Your choice depends on maintenance preferences and budget: concrete needs minimal upkeep but cracks more easily, while asphalt requires resealing every three to four years.
Hiring a local asphalt company provides expert guidance on which material suits your climate best and ensures proper installation for long-term durability.
If you live in a cold climate, you may be wondering about the best type of driveway for longevity and easy maintenance. The freeze-thaw cycles that take place in colder climates can do a number on driveways, walkways, and other surfaces. This guide to concrete vs asphalt in cold climates will help you make a choice!
Concrete is a simple mixture of paste and aggregates that is one of the most commonly used infrastructural materials in the world. On average, a concrete driveway costs $4 to $15 per square foot. Here's what you can expect for performance in cold weather.
Pros
Low Maintenance: Concrete doesn't require the sealant coating needed for asphalt to survive cold weather.
Lifespan: Concrete can easily last up to 30 years even in the chilliest conditions.
Recyclable: Concrete is a better choice for an eco-friendly driveway.
Cons
Issues With Heaving: While fixable, a problem called heaving that results when ice and water get into pockets under concrete is a risk.
Staining: Salt and melting compounds that are commonly used in cold-weather climates during the winter can easily stain concrete.
Cracks: Wild temperature swings are known to cause cracks to form in concrete.
Repair Costs: The average cost to repair or fix a concrete driveway totals $829 to $2,788.
Asphalt is a mixture of aggregates and fillers used for roads, walkways, driveways, and countless other surfaces. It is considered much softer than concrete as a walking surface. At $7 to $13 per square foot, it is comparable in cost to asphalt. Here's a look at the pros and cons based on how it performs in cold weather.
Pros
Bendable: Asphalt doesn't have the rigidity of concrete. As a result, it generally performs much better in areas with frost-thaw cycles that cause materials to expand and contract.
Helps to Melt Ice: The darker color of asphalt can actually attract the sun, helping snow and ice melt faster.
Easily Repairable: Small cracks in asphalt are generally less expensive to repair than damaged concrete. On average, asphalt repair costs $1,500.
Cons
Ongoing Maintenance: Unlike concrete, asphalt needs to be sealed every three to four years.
Patching Is Difficult: Due to the temperature needed for asphalt curing time, damaged concrete can only be patched when temperatures reach above 50 degrees Fahrenheit. If a driveway is damaged by a plow, major repairs may need to be left unfinished until spring.
Asphalt's bendable quality makes it a better choice in areas where the freeze-thaw cycle poses threats for cracking. It can also be a better option for walkways because of the way its dark color helps ice and snow to melt quickly. Asphalt that is professionally installed by a local asphalt company should last for up to 30 years. However, homeowners who choose this option should be prepared to reseal asphalt every few years.
Archie did a good job cleaning up the driveway before he laid down the sealer. It looks good. He was gracious and even helped me bring up my groceries. His rate was comparable to another company who came out to give me a quote and he talked to me personally rather than just text me a quote...
Pro Seal Roofing & PavingD1 Roofing delivers outstanding service from beginning to end, backed by a strong warranty and expert teams. I highly recommend them for their excellence in meeting and surpassing expectations with unmatched communication. Choosing D1 Roofing was flawless decision
Division 1 Roofing LLCFirst of all, the gentleman I dealt with (Cam?) was very responsive to my many questions and concerns throughout the project, which is a huge plus to me. From the first time I met him for the estimate all the way til the completion of the job, he and his crew were professional and respectful....
All Star Paving and SealingWe had a 20+ year old landscape lighting system that needed replacement. Midwest Lightscapes worked with us to design a much improved lighting system, lighting the exterior of the house and the back yard. Installation of the 45 light system took one and one-half days, and went very smoothly....
Midwest LightscapesEd did a great job in installing stone to the outside of our house at a fair price
Ochoa StoneworksWorking with Peter and his crew was a breeze. They were exceptionally polite and did a neat job to repair and seal our driveway. I will definitely talk to them first for additional work.
Central PavingWe hired Jim to replace our hardwood floors with new hardwood. He and his helper Jerry did a fantastic job. Their work ethic is impeccable!! We would highly recommend McColl Floors!
The preformed a really good job the staff is incredible never been so happy with my home, A brand new driveway is like a face lift!!
Pristine PavingCalled Mark on a Thursday morning. Not really knowing if he could help me or not. I was having driveway, flooding issues due to a clogged channel drain and I was trying to figure out what direction to take. Heavy rains had come on Monday and again on Thursday leading to flooding in my garage...
Mark Rodgers ConstructionHad already met with 2 other contractors before Blue Ring, and Blue Ring's price quote for the work was better than either of the other 2, and the came out the next morning and cleaned up a very large fallen tree branch from a storm that was blocking my driveway. Work was completed in...
Blue Ring Residential Services, LLCFrom average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
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