If you want to construct a new pathway, sidewalk, or entranceway for your home or business, you may be wondering whether asphalt or concrete is the best material to use. Both concrete and asphalt sidewalks have numerous advantages, but it’s ultimately up to you to decide which is best for your particular situation. This blog will explain when you should use concrete and when you should use asphalt.
There are multiple ways to make your home or business look more inviting, elegant, or professional. From preexisting architecture, to paint jobs or fresh landscaping, there are ample opportunities to give your property a facelift. One of the most common ways to jazz up your home is to install a new walkway. Your walkway is the path guests take to enter your home and it leaves a lasting impression on visitors. The most popular materials for a sidewalk is either concrete or asphalt.
Concrete Paving for your Sidewalk
For good reason, many people installing new concrete sidewalks or updating old ones choose concrete! Concrete is more expensive than asphalt, but it is still less expensive than interlocking tiles or pavement. Concrete paving is also more durable and can withstand heavy use and regular wear and tear with little to no ill effects. As a result, these sidewalks require little regular maintenance, saving you money and headaches in the long run. Though uncommon, it should be noted that concrete pavement repairs are more time-consuming and costly.
Concrete can also be easily customized to meet your specific requirements. Although easily stained, its colour is also elegant and long-lasting, with most blemishes naturally fading over time. Concrete sidewalk installation takes longer than asphalt sidewalk installation and requires more time to set before use. However, don’t let this deter you as the benefits of concrete paving certainly justify the extra few days it takes to install.
Asphalt Paving for your Sidewalk
When considering different ways to lay a sidewalk on your property, asphalt paving is another excellent option. The most obvious advantage of using asphalt for your sidewalk is that it is the most affordable option, as well as the quickest to install and use after installation. This eliminates the inconvenience of construction and allows you to resume normal life sooner than if a more complicated process, such as concrete, is used. In a city like London, asphalt is generally regarded as the safer option, as is the black surface, which promotes snow and ice melting faster than concrete or other lighter walkway options. Asphalt is also smoother, making it a more pleasant surface for walking, biking, or skating.
Blacktop is also much more difficult to stain due to its colour, so it will appear newer for a longer period of time. While asphalt paving, like concrete, is a great option for many, it is not without its drawbacks. Asphalt requires more frequent maintenance and upkeep, but these projects are generally simple, inexpensive, and doable on your own.
Concrete or Asphalt – Which one is best?
It is ultimately up to you to decide which surface is best for the sidewalk or pathways at your home or business. Each has its own set of advantages and disadvantages, and no one knows this better than the professionals at London Concrete Pros. Our concrete walkway contractors have installed all types of sidewalks in all types of yards over the years and have always delivered stunning results. Our experts can help you with everything from large-scale walkways to simple paths. If you want to learn more, have any quick questions, or are ready to set up an appointment and get a quote, give us a call today!