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The best time to pour concrete is mid-afternoon when temperatures often sit between 50 and 60 degrees, and you don’t expect rain for at least 24 to 48 hours. Avoiding direct sunlight in the peak afternoon hours can help reduce the risk of curing too quickly, as can avoiding pouring on hot summer days. Colder temperatures and rain can lead to slower curing times and weaken the concrete. If in doubt, especially if your concrete will provide structural stability, hire a contractor to determine the best time to pour.

Building a concrete driveway normally takes between one and three days, including the time to cure the concrete. Wait at least seven days before driving on your driveway and two days before walking on it. Your contractor may require additional time if you need to level the ground, install a drainage system, or order special concrete materials. Installing a driveway also often requires a permit, so be sure to include this wait into your prep time as well.

Yes, asphalt is less expensive than concrete. Asphalt prices range between $7 and $15 per square foot, whereas concrete costs $3 to $18 per square foot. When considering asphalt versus concrete driveways, you’ll want to weigh more than just the costs. While concrete costs more, it costs less to maintain. On the other hand, asphalt has the advantages of a quick installation and shorter drying time.

Asphalt can get sticky in high temperatures and intense sunlight and is better for cooler or moderate climates, while concrete is more likely to crack in colder climates where water can seep into the slab and freeze. Asphalt requires more maintenance in terms of sealing, it has a slightly shorter lifespan, on average, and it’s a bit more expensive to install. Concrete will last longer with less maintenance, and it offers you more options for customization, including staining and stamped patterns. As such, a concrete driveway adds to home value more than an asphalt driveway in many cases.