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You can pour concrete over asphalt if it’s in good condition, thick, stable, and well-compacted. Concrete is more durable than asphalt and can extend the lifetime of your driveway without having to pay frequent asphalt driveway repair costs or replace it completely. 

But this is best reserved as a temporary solution based on budget restraints, as asphalt requires more frequent repairs and assessments than concrete. Once that concrete top is poured, it’ll be harder to accurately understand what’s happening beneath that layer, which could lead to more issues.

A driveway's lifespan varies by material. Asphalt driveways typically last 15 to 30 years, while concrete driveways last longer, between 20 and 50 years. The longevity of any driveway is affected by factors like extreme temperatures, heavy traffic, and the quality of maintenance. Regular upkeep, such as filling cracks, resealing the surface, and ensuring proper drainage, can help extend its life. For gravel driveways, regrading to fill in uneven areas every year or two is recommended.

Yes, hardscaping is generally a great investment that can increase your home's value. Hardscape features improve your yard's functionality, safety, and aesthetics, which boosts curb appeal and overall property value. According to a survey by the National Association of Realtors and the National Association of Landscape Professionals, hardscape upgrades are one of the top four outdoor projects that add value to a property for resale, along with landscape upgrades, landscape management, and lawn care services. While most buyers see value in these features, some may be concerned about potential increases in property taxes or the cost to alter them later. However, the return on investment is typically excellent. For best results, hardscaping should be combined with professional landscaping, and it's wise to hire a reliable contractor for installation.

Paving is a part of hardscaping, so all paving is hardscaping, but not all hardscaping is paving. Paving involves laying down concrete or asphalt, while hardscaping can also include the use of paving stones, bricks, gravel, wood, and more. Hardscape features that involve paving are considered permanent and will increase your property taxes, while some other hardscaping features—like those involving bricks, gravel, and paving stones—will not affect property taxes. Paving also typically requires a permit, while hardscaping features considered temporary will not.