Asphalt paving guide
Asphalt wins on upfront cost, freeze-thaw flexibility, and ease of repair. Concrete wins on raw lifespan and finish options. Here is the full read so you can pick the right one for your climate, budget, and timeline.
| Factor | Asphalt | Concrete |
|---|---|---|
| Upfront cost (driveway) | $7-13 per sq ft | $9-18 per sq ft |
| Lifespan | 20-30 years with maintenance | 30-40 years |
| Maintenance interval | Sealcoat every 2-3 years | Sealer every 5+ years, joint repair |
| Cold-weather performance | Flexible, handles freeze-thaw well | More prone to cracking and salt damage |
| Hot-weather performance | Softens in extreme heat | Holds shape, can be too hot to walk barefoot |
| Installation time | Usable in 24-48 hours | Usable in 7 days, full cure 28 days |
| Repair | Easy, near-invisible patching | Repairs almost always visible |
| Resale appearance | Black, clean, modern | Gray, more options for finish and color |