07/26/2021
Just to clear the air, I’ve had customers ask me why concrete driveways cost more than asphalt and this is why!
Concrete is permanent! ✅
It’s guaranteed by manufacturers to last up to 25+ years if it has been graded,placed and finished correctly.
Concrete is heavy! ✅
Due to the weight of concrete the prep work (gravel) and pre-pour (framing) is a lot more complex and important than any other driveway options.
Concrete is reinforced! ✅
In most cases concrete is reinforced with fibres and steel such as fibre mesh,wire mesh, Rebar, dowels, tie wire and more depending on the application.
Asphalt is not reinforced!
Concrete is low maintenance! ✅
Concrete is little to no maintenance once it has been completed.
Simply seal your exterior concrete every few years and enjoy it!
A quick wash every season will help prolong the life of the concrete although it’s not 100% necessary.
That being said, take care of your concrete and your concrete will take care of you .
Concrete raises value! ✅
When considering a concrete driveway just remember that it will increase property value and taxes substantially as it’s considered permanent.
Asphalt will not raise value!
Definitely a “get what you pay for” situation.
Concrete is tested! ✅
Concrete driveways are typically poured with 35MPA (5000psi).
Which means the concrete mix has been scientifically calculated and rated to withstand 5000lbs per square inch!
Asphalt is not tested!
Concrete stays flat! ✅
Unless a wash out or large crack occurs concrete will maintain its finished grade for many years.
Saving you from dealing with pot holes, dips, sagging, puddles or large expansion cracks that usually takes place with asphalt.
Concrete is attractive! ✅
With asphalt your stuck with the same look as your neighbour and the neighbour beside them.
Concrete allows you to select colours and patterns that are unachievable with asphalt such as designed edges, surface finishes and textures that allow you to stand out from the rest.
Concrete can be corrected! ✅
If your concrete is aged or possibly has blemishes from years of use it’s never too late to try and save it.
Even after years of neglect or zero maintenance you can still save the finish of your concrete with additives such as acid stains, clear coat sealers and more!
Moral of the story.
It’s not that concrete driveways cost more, it’s everything that comes along with it!
The price of concrete and the price of asphalt are close to the same.
The quality of the materials ,preparation and amount of work that goes along with your concrete is not the same!
Asphalt is recycled,
Concrete is new product.
The price of concrete reflects the quality of materials and the amount of the work it takes to complete the project.
Next time you wonder about the costs of concrete vs asphalt!
Just remember..
it’s not what we put in your driveway,
It’s how we get it there!
😉
