If you are planning on constructing a commercial or residential parking area or driveway, you might find that concrete and asphalt are the two most recommended materials. Why is that the case? Concrete and asphalt are considered durable and can withstand the weight of different kinds of vehicles.

Depending on your needs and location, you might find either asphalt or concrete economically, functionally or aesthetically better than the other. Here's what you need to know about asphalt.

Quick Installation

The good thing about asphalt is that after it is installed (poured and compacted/pressed), you don't have to wait for long before you start using the surface. This can be a benefit to you if you want to start using the asphalt driveway or car park as soon as possible. Concrete takes time to dry effectively, which can even be over a week depending on various environmental factors.

Harsh Weather-Resistance

If your asphalt specialist tells you to pick asphalt over concrete for your paving, driveway or parking lot needs because of the weather conditions of your locality, listen to him or her. Asphalt offers better resistance to weather when compared to concrete. It rarely cracks from different temperature changes because it has sufficient room to expand and contract.

Slip-Resistance

Wet concrete can be slippery, and if you want to make it rough, you might require to have additional processes done to it, which can be costly because you still want it to look aesthetically pleasing. Asphalt is naturally rough, and the dark colour is aesthetically pleasing. Additionally, this dark concrete colour makes seeing stains difficult. If you weigh the costs of making concrete rough and installing naturally rough asphalt, you might lean more towards asphalt.

What Should You Worry About Asphalt?

If you do not use a professional, your asphalt parking lot or driveway may be installed shoddily and you might be forced to restore it sooner than expected. An effectively installed asphalt floor surface should give you months of service before requiring any restoration.

If you see any cracks or tiny potholes, contact an asphalt specialist immediately before the cracks or potholes become large and deeper. The repair process is quick because it just involves cutting out the affected area evenly and filling it with fresh asphalt.

Before installing either concrete or asphalt driveways and parking lots, your asphalt specialist should always inspect the area for any roots. Roots cause damage to concrete and asphalt (leads to cracks).

To learn more, contact an asphalt specialist.