Concrete Driveway

If you plan to revamp or install a new driveway, you might want to consider a concrete driveway. There are many advantages to choosing a concrete driveway over an asphalt alternative. Concrete is a durable material that is made to last for many years. An asphalt driveway, though relatively inexpensive, can crack and collapse if the temperature changes drastically. In addition, asphalt pavement can be quickly washed away if it becomes wet or dirty, which can be inconvenient when there are unexpected parties, such as children visiting, that require parking lots or driveways.

Concrete Driveway Houston has the advantage of being extremely long-lasting and cost-effective. For some, budgeting may be a driving factor in choosing concrete over asphalt. But concrete lasts much longer. Typically, the average service life of a concrete driveway is about 50-60% longer than that of an asphalt surface.

Another advantage of a concrete driveway over an asphalt surface is that there are few if any potholes. Most asphalt parking lots and driveways are full of indentations and bumps, known as potholes. Although these can be problematic for drivers, especially at higher speeds, they do not represent a hazard for those who avoid them. But on a concrete surface, even small potholes can be filled in. This eliminates the need to scrape away potholes periodically.

Concrete is also less likely to erode, which leads to cracks in the road. Cracks in the concrete driveway can be filled in, but this will still leave some small voids in the base material. But on a concrete surface, small cracks are unlikely to become a problem unless the weather is particularly cold or wet.

The number one disadvantage of concrete driveways is that it does not hold up well to salt spray. In addition, the salt spray can act as a de-greaser, removing the shine and luster from the concrete. These flaws are not a huge concern when driving through salt-filled salt flats. But when going through rain, snow, or sleet, these flaws can become a problem. A solution to this problem is to add an anti-salt coating to the concrete surface.

Pavers are a great alternative to concrete driveways and parking lots. Their primary drawback is that they are extremely noisy when used, as they move at very high speeds. Also, because they lack any traction, players are often prone to becoming damaged by cracks or potholes. But on the positive side, players do not dent, chip, or break.

If you have an asphalt driveway, you probably know that it's not a great idea to use any oil or gasoline on the surface of your asphalt driveway or parking lot. The main reason is that asphalt driveways and parking lots are not designed for heavy handling. If you need to use driveway oil or gasoline, you will want to pour the mixture on the ground in a very inconspicuous area. Most importantly, be sure not to wipe it off! If you do, the oil or gasoline will end up on your driveway and ruin the surface.

The only real disadvantages of using concrete or asphalt for a driveway are cracking due to heavy traffic or weathering or if the asphalt melts. It is possible to repair the damaged asphalt in either situation by injecting new concrete into the cracks. The downside to using asphalt is that it is much more expensive than concrete, although most people prefer the neutral appearance of concrete over asphalt for their driveway. In the long run, it may be a better choice of driveway material for your home.