Proper Ways To Maintain Concrete and Asphalt Driveways

Are you struggling to decide whether you want a concrete or asphalt driveway? Maybe you already have one but don’t know the proper ways to maintain your pavement. If so, check out this guide on the different needs of concrete and asphalt driveways.

Maintaining Concrete

Concrete is a highly durable material that’s typically found on city and town roads. It can make for an excellent driveway surface but does require stringent maintenance routines to ensure a visibly appealing and functional pavement. First and foremost, concrete is easily stained from all sorts of things, including oil, gas, and grease spills. Stains are a pain to remove and get even worse over time. Ensure your driveway is consistently clean by power washing and squeegeeing often.

Always use gentle chemicals when tackling more difficult discolorations. Additionally, you must apply chemical sealants every two to three years. Fill cracks and other damages often before sealing, as this is a progressive issue requiring immediate care.

Maintaining Asphalt

Asphalt is more commonly used for driveways and parking lots or as additional pavement over concrete roads. Like concrete, you must attend to cracks and damages immediately to avoid more expensive repairs.

You should also apply new sealcoatings every two years, as this will make your driveway last for many years to come. Asphalt is less likely to stain than concrete; however, you should clean up spills often to ensure liquids don’t seep into the pavement.

Concrete vs. Asphalt

Is there a clear winner when it comes to choosing concrete or asphalt driveways? While concrete is an extremely durable material that’s inexpensive to fix, asphalt is the superior option for driveways.

Asphalt is easier to maintain and won’t suffer from discolorations, and the dark surface takes heat away from your lawn and house! Plus, sealcoating asphalt is a quicker, more affordable process compared to concrete. If you have a concrete driveway, don’t panic. With enough care, you can easily ensure your pavement is visually appealing and functional.

Understanding the proper ways to maintain concrete and asphalt driveways can better educate you when choosing a new pavement. Both options have their own specific benefits, but it ultimately comes down to how much maintenance you want to do and which surface is more visually appealing.