If you were looking at materials for your driveway, you probably came across blacktop and concrete. And, if you’re like a large portion of the population, you probably thought that the differences between the two are negligible. But they’re not. While they do share a lot of similarities, they also have very significant differences. Not understanding these differences could end up costing you in the long run. Let’s take a look at some of the differences between blacktop and concrete.
Cost
One of the first differences you’ll notice between blacktop pavers and concrete is the price. Blacktop will cost you significantly less than a concrete driveway. You can expect to pay anywhere from $2 to $4 per sq2 for a blacktop driveway compared to $4 to $6 per sq2 for a concrete one. And that’s not even counting things like the finishes, staining, and details. When you add this up, you could look at a price tag of close to $15 per sq2.
Maintenance and Durability
Blacktop is less durable than concrete and will require maintenance. However, making sure that you seal your driveway around 6 months after the installation and every 3 to 5 years after that will extend its longevity. Also, know that this is something that you can do yourself.
Sealing is not as necessary with a concrete driveway, though many decide to go for the option to preserve the finish and enhance the look. You will also have to spend money on degreasing agents to get rid of chemical, fuel, and oil stains from the driveway.
Know that both blacktop and concrete are prone to cracking. However, blacktop is much easier to seal and repair. This is something people living in colder areas need to pay special attention to. Not only that, but salt and de-icing agents will start eroding the surface of concrete driveways, so they might not be the best option for people dealing with cold winters.
Overall Look
When it comes to aesthetics, you have a lot more customization options with concrete. However, you also have to consider what you’re going to be using the driveway for. If you intend to do a lot of work or if the driveway is going to see a lot of traffic, then a blacktop driveway will be more forgiving. So, this is something you’ll have to think of first before you make your decision.
Longevity
Concrete has the most longevity between the two. Some concrete driveways have been known to last more than 50 years. But it depends on how well it was preserved, and weather conditions as well. Blacktop can also last long with proper maintenance. As a matter of fact, you can expect them to last up to 30 years.
So, if you were still unsure of what made blacktop and concrete different, we hope we were able to help. Don’t hesitate to contact a contractor near you and discuss which option would be the best for your needs and budget.
